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Whats the difference between Chevy Blazer LT and RS?

The LT is the more practical, value-oriented trim with emphasis on comfort and everyday usability, while the RS is the sportier, appearance-driven variant that adds distinctive styling and, depending on the year, access to stronger powertrains. Buyers typically see LT as the better value and daily-driver choice, and RS as the sport-informed upgrade with unique looks and potential performance touches—though exact features depend on model year and market.

The following sections lay out how these two Blazer trims differ in styling, powertrains, interior features, and pricing, with notes on year-to-year changes you should watch for when shopping.

Exterior styling: look and presence

Here's a snapshot of how the two trims diverge on the outside, where RS aims to stand out and LT leans toward a more conventional crossover appearance.

RS adds sport-oriented styling cues, including a distinctive grille treatment, darker exterior accents, and unique badging that signals its performance-oriented positioning.

Wheels and tires typically differ, with RS commonly offered with larger, more aggressive wheel designs compared to LT’s more standard options.

Lighting and rear fascia on RS are often coordinated for a more aggressive, sport-first look, while LT emphasizes a more traditional crossover silhouette.

Badging and trim details: RS badges and specific deco elements help the model stand out, whereas LT keeps a simpler, more understated appearance.

In everyday driving, the RS’s exterior styling is designed to attract attention, while the LT presents a clean, family-friendly profile that blends into any parking lot.

Powertrain and performance: what’s under the hood

This section covers how engine options, transmissions, and handling can differ between LT and RS, noting that availability can shift by model year.

Engine options: Both trims have historically offered similar engine choices within the Blazer lineup (such as a turbocharged four-cylinder and a more powerful V6 option in some years). Availability of specific engines is year-dependent, so RS isn’t automatically equipped with a more powerful engine across all years.

Transmission: A common 9-speed automatic transmission is used across Blazer trims, including LT and RS, with shifts tuned for smooth efficiency and responsive performance.

Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on both LT and RS, with some configurations or packages offering AWD as standard on RS in certain years.

Handling and suspension: RS typically features sport-oriented tuning or ride characteristics (such as stiffer suspension or sport-tuned components) to emphasize a more dynamic feel, while LT prioritizes a comfortable, composed ride for everyday use.

Prospective buyers should confirm the exact powertrain combination for the year they’re considering, as RS doesn’t guarantee a higher horsepower engine in every generation and the availability of sport-tuned components varies.

Interior, technology, and features: comfort and connectivity

Inside, the two trims share much of the same technology, but RS often adds or emphasizes sport-oriented touches and distinct trim choices.

Seating and materials: RS may offer unique seat designs, color accents, and stitching (often with a sport-focused aesthetic), while LT emphasizes practicality with comfortable seating and durable materials.

Infotainment and connectivity: Both trims typically include Chevrolet’s modern Infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Wi-Fi, and a similar suite of apps; RS may pack some options or upgraded trim materials as standard or optional.

Comfort features: Higher trims like RS can include features such as heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, and upgraded trim; LT includes many comfort amenities, with certain features available as options or packages.

Cargo and space: Interior passenger space and cargo capacity are generally comparable between LT and RS, with differences mainly in trim and styling, not in overall roominess.

For most buyers, the cabin experience will feel similar in daily use, with RS delivering a more aggressive visual and tactile vibe, while LT focuses on value and practicality.

Pricing and value: what you pay and what you get

Price differences reflect styling, available features, and optional equipment rather than a universal rule across all years. Here’s what to expect when weighing LT against RS.

Rough price delta: RS models are typically priced higher than LT models due to styling cues, wheel choices, and available features, though the exact gap varies by year and options chosen.

Standard vs. optional equipment: RS often includes more features as standard or as part of sport-oriented packages, whereas LT may require additional options to reach similar equipment levels.

resale and value: Because RS carries sport styling and a higher starting price, its resale value will depend on market demand for that look and the engine/feature choices in a given year.

When shopping, compare the specific window stickers and build sheets for the year you’re considering to understand the real price-to-equipment balance between LT and RS.

Year-by-year considerations and how to verify your model

Chevrolet updates trims periodically, so features, engines, and packages can shift between generations and refreshes. Use this guidance to verify what a particular LT or RS includes for a given model year.

Check the engine and drivetrain options for that year to confirm what powertrains are available on LT and RS.

Review the exact exterior and interior packages to see which styling cues or materials are included or optional on RS versus LT.

Inspect the window sticker and build sheet to verify standard features, options, and any regional differences.

Understanding these year-specific details helps ensure you’re comparing the trims on equal footing and avoids surprises at the dealership.

Summary

In broad terms, the Chevy Blazer LT and RS cater to different priorities: LT emphasizes everyday comfort, practicality, and value, while RS emphasizes sport-inspired styling and a more dynamic presence, with feature differences that depend on the model year. Engine choices and suspension tuning can vary by year, so always verify the exact configuration on the specific vehicle you’re considering. For most buyers, LT offers solid, value-oriented transportation, and RS delivers a more eye-catching, sport-oriented experience for those who want that edge from their daily drive.

Is Chevy LT or RS better?

The LT features classic styling, the RS has more performance-inspired styling, and the ACTIV has more rugged, off-road styling. The RS and ACTIV trims have a slightly higher starting price because of added design elements and can be optioned with more comfort and tech features.

What is the difference between RS and LT?

The main difference is that LT (Luxury Touring) trims focus on a balance of comfort, value, and essential technology, while RS (Rally Sport) trims emphasize a sportier, more aggressive style with blacked-out accents and larger wheels, often adding a few extra features. The LT is generally the more affordable, practical option, while the RS offers more visual flair and a higher starting price.
LT (Luxury Touring)

Focus: Functionality, comfort, and technology for everyday driving.
Style: More traditional or classic design.
Features: Typically includes a large touchscreen, standard safety tech, and modern convenience features.

RS (Rally Sport)

Focus: Sporty aesthetics and performance-oriented styling.
Style: Features include blacked-out exterior trim, unique badging, and larger wheels.
Features: Often adds sportier interior touches like a flat-bottom steering wheel and distinctive seating, along with some premium features like wireless charging or advanced safety features that may be optional on the LT.

Are LT and RS the same?

LT price difference reflects their distinct features. The RS offers a sporty appearance at a lower price, making it an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize style and performance without additional luxury features.

What is the difference between RS and LT Blazer?

The main differences between the Blazer LT and RS trims are exterior styling and features. The RS has a sportier, more aggressive look with a gloss black grille, a full-width light bar, and larger 21-inch wheels, while the LT has a more refined appearance with a paint-matched front end and smaller 19-inch wheels. The RS also comes with additional premium features, which can vary by model year, such as ventilated front seats, a head-up display, driver seat memory, and a premium Bose sound system.
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Exterior and wheels

LT: 19-inch wheels, monochromatic exterior with a paint-matched front end.
RS: 21-inch wheels, a blacked-out gloss black grille, and a full-width light bar with unique animations.

Performance

LT: For the Blazer EV, it can have a standard battery with a range of about 279 miles.
RS: The RS offers a more powerful optional powertrain with the V6 engine on gas models and has a longer range available on RWD EV models due to a larger battery.

Interior and features

LT: Comes with standard features like synthetic leather upholstery, a 17.7-inch central touchscreen, and an 11-inch digital instrument panel.
RS: Includes additional premium features like cooled front seats, memory seats, a head-up display (HUD), heated rear seats, and a premium Bose audio system.

Technology

LT: Includes the standard Chevrolet Safety Assist suite.
RS: Comes with more advanced technology features, such as a head-up display, wireless device charging, and adaptive cruise control.

Price

LT: Generally has a lower starting price compared to the RS trim.
RS: The higher trim level, with a higher starting price point due to its additional features and sportier design.

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.