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Whats the difference between a Chevy Spark LT and LS?

The LT trim adds more features than the LS with no major change to the Spark's engine or driving character. In other words, LT is the upmarket version with more tech, comfort, and convenience items, while LS remains the base. Note that Chevrolet stopped selling the Spark in the U.S. after the 2022 model year, so current buyers are typically looking at used examples whose equipment varies by year and option packages.

Trim overview

The Spark LS and LT are subcompact hatchbacks with the same overall size and footprint. The main differences come down to equipment rather than core performance. Here’s how the two trims compare on typical US-market Spark models by year.

What LT adds over LS

The following list highlights the most common features that Chevy typically bundles into LT that aren’t standard on LS.

Infotainment and connectivity: LT usually adds a more capable audio system with a larger touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.

Convenience and comfort: LT commonly includes features such as power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, and, in many years, a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

Exterior styling and wheels: LT typically rides on upgraded wheels and may include styling differences that give a more premium look compared with the LS’s base hardware.

Safety and driver aids: LT can include additional safety equipment or more advanced driver-assistance options depending on year and package availability.

In summary, LT focuses on adding technology, comfort, and appearance enhancements to the LS rather than changing the underlying drivetrain.

What stays the same

Across LS and LT within the same model year, Chevrolet generally keeps the core underpinnings identical.

Engine and transmission: The Spark’s powertrain remains the same between LS and LT within a given year, so performance figures and fuel economy are similar barring tire/wheel differences.

Interior space and cargo: Seating layout, trunk space, and overall interior dimensions do not change between trims.

Warranty and maintenance: Basic warranty coverage and scheduled maintenance windows are driven by the model year and market, not by trim level.

Overall safety: Core safety equipment such as airbags and braking remains standard across trims, with additional safety features forming part of optional packages rather than trim-level differences alone.

For buyers, this means the main differences are not performance but the features that come standard or as options on LT versus LS.

Model years, markets and buying tips

Because trims and features shifted over the Spark’s lifecycle, always verify the exact equipment on a given car. In the U.S., Chevy ended Spark sales after the 2022 model year, so used examples vary by year and package. If you’re shopping, check the window sticker or the vehicle’s build sheet to confirm what came with LT or LS for that specific car.

Summary

The Chevy Spark LT is the feature-rich cousin of the LS, offering more technology, convenience, and styling options while preserving the same core engine and driving dynamics. The LS remains the base option, with fewer standard amenities and more affordable pricing. For shoppers today, the difference comes down to which features matter most and the year of the car, since trims and equipment evolved over time and new Spark models are no longer sold new in the U.S.

What is the difference between the Chevy Spark LS and LT?

The Chevy Spark LT is a step up from the LS, offering more features for a higher price. The LS is the base model and comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, a rearview camera, and a four-speaker audio system. The LT adds power accessories, cruise control, alloy wheels, and a six-speaker stereo.

This video reviews the features and specifications of the 2020 Chevy Spark 1LT: 1mKB CarsYouTube · Mar 29, 2020

Feature	LS	LT
Wheels	15-inch steel	15-inch alloy
Power Features	Manual windows, mirrors, and door locks	Power windows, mirrors, and door locks
Cruise Control	No	Yes
Audio System	Four speakers	Six speakers
Keyless Entry	No	Yes, remote keyless entry
Steering Wheel	No audio/phone controls	Audio and phone controls on the steering wheel

Engine: Both the LS and LT trims of the Spark share the same 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
Safety: Both trims come standard with a rearview camera and an available driver confidence package on some trims adds safety features like forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
Technology: Both trims come with a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a USB port, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

This video highlights the differences between the 2018 and 2019 Chevy Spark, including differences in features across different trims: 1mKB CarsYouTube · Dec 27, 2018

What is the difference between LS package and LT package?

The Chevy LS is the base trim, while the LT is a step up, offering more features for added comfort and convenience at a higher price. Common differences include the LT model featuring things like heated seats, a power driver's seat, remote start, a larger touchscreen, and advanced safety features. The exact features vary by model, so it's best to compare the specific vehicle's trim level breakdown to see the full differences.

Chevy LS trim

Position: Entry-level, most affordable trim.
Focus: Provides essential features and solid performance at a good value.

Chevy LT trim

Position: A mid-level trim that adds more features to the LS.
Focus: Offers a step up in comfort, technology, and convenience.
Common features:
- Heated front seats
- Power driver's seat (often 8-way adjustable)
- Remote start
- LED lighting
- Larger infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless charging pad
- Safety and driver-assistance features
- Upgraded interior materials or finishes
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated outside mirrors

Is Chevy LT or LS better?

The main difference is that LS (Luxury Sport) is the base trim level for many Chevy models, while LT (Luxury Touring) is the next step up, offering more features and a higher price. For engines, LS is the older generation, while LT is the newer, more fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced generation, featuring direct injection and variable valve timing.
Vehicle trim levels
You can watch this video to learn about the feature and pricing differences between Chevy Trax LS and LT trims: 57sTopicMotorYouTube · Jul 22, 2025

Feature	LS (Base Model)	LT (Luxury Touring)
Price	More affordable	Higher starting MSRP
Features	Standard and essential features	A wider range of advanced and premium features are often available
Examples	Available on models like Camaro, Spark, and Equinox	Often includes upgrades like remote start, heated seats, larger touchscreens, and advanced safety features

Feature	LS (Older Generation)	LT (Newer Generation)
Technology	Older, but proven and reliable	Newer, with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (VVT)
Efficiency & Emissions	Less fuel-efficient and higher emissions compared to LT	Designed to meet stricter emissions and fuel economy standards
Performance	Different piston design (flat-top)	More efficient with a higher compression ratio and unique piston design for direct injection
Complexity	Less complex, making it easier to modify and maintain for some applications	More complex, but offers more power potential and efficiency

How do I know if I have a LT or LS engine?

When you open the hood, there is a label attached to the front of your car on the metal crossbar in front of/ above your radiator. This label will tell you what engine your car has.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.