Whats the difference between LS and LT Traverse?
The LT trim is the mid-level upgrade over the base LS, adding more comfort, tech and convenience features while keeping the same engine and overall chassis. In short: LS is the entry point; LT adds upgrades you’ll notice in daily driving and living with the SUV.
Chevrolet’s Traverse line is built around a common powertrain and platform, with trim-level choices driving equipment, materials, and technology. This article explains what the LS includes as the baseline and what the LT brings to the table, along with how that affects price, ownership, and overall value. Model-year and regional differences can shift exact features, so check the latest Chevrolet brochure or a dealer for the precise package contents in your area.
What the LS includes
Below is a snapshot of typical equipment you’ll find on the Traverse LS in recent model years. The goal is to outline the baseline you’d be stepping up from if you’re considering upgrading to LT or higher.
- Engine and transmission: 3.6-liter V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Seating: Usually seven-passenger seating with a practical interior layout for family use.
- Infotainment: A 7-inch diagonal touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Wi‑Fi hotspot (data plan may apply).
- Safety and driver assistance: Standard or baseline safety systems, including a rear-vision camera and common driver aids that Chevrolet bundles under its Safety Assist package in many trims.
- Comfort and interior: Cloth upholstery with basic seating adjustments and standard climate control appropriate to the trim level; practical cargo and second-row access for family tasks.
In this baseline configuration, the focus is on delivering the core capabilities of a three-row SUV—space, practicality, and reliable daily usability—without the higher-end finishes or niceties found in mid- and upper trims.
What the LT adds
The LT trim sits above LS and is designed to provide a broader set of comfort, technology, and convenience features. The exact items can vary by model year and region, but the following are common upgrades you’ll typically see when moving from LS to LT.
- Interior upgrades: Leather-appointed seating options or upgraded upholstery and a more premium feel in the cabin; often a power-adjustable driver's seat with additional lumbar support.
- Comfort features: Heated front seats and, in many configurations, tri-zone climate control or an enhanced climate system for more precise temperature control across zones.
- Infotainment enhancements: An upgraded touchscreen (often 8 inches or larger) with enhanced graphics and features; expanded smartphone integration and sometimes a more robust audio system.
- Convenience upgrades: Remote start, a hands-free power liftgate, additional USB charging ports, roof rails, and upgraded or larger wheels for a more refined appearance and feel.
- Safety and driver assists: Additional or optional safety packages that may include improved blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and other advanced features that complement the baseline Safety Assist in LS.
- Exterior styling: Subtle visual upgrades such as different wheel designs and minor trim accents that distinguish LT from LS.
The LT’s value proposition is clear: it adds comfort and technology without climbing to the top-tier trims. For many buyers, LT delivers a more premium experience while keeping the overall cost reasonable compared with higher trims that add more exclusive features.
Cost and value considerations
Price differences between LS and LT reflect the added equipment and comfort features. The LT typically costs more than the LS, with the exact delta depending on the model year, optional packages, drivetrain choice (FWD vs. AWD), and regional pricing. If you’re comparing trims, consider not only the sticker price but also the value of features you’ll use daily—heated seats, a larger touchscreen, remote start, and a hands-free liftgate can translate into noticeable convenience and comfort over time.
For buyers on a tighter budget, LS remains a solid starting point, especially if you don’t need or want the extra features. For those who value enhanced interior feel, tech, and convenience, LT offers a meaningful upgrade without jumping to the top-tier trims.
Summary
The Chevrolet Traverse LS and LT share the same fundamental powertrain and overall architecture. The LS serves as the baseline, delivering essential three-row practicality with standard tech and safety features. The LT adds a suite of comfort, tech, and convenience upgrades—upholstery upgrades, heated seats, a larger touchscreen, remote start, a hands-free liftgate, and similar enhancements—without changing the core propulsion. Your choice depends on how much you value those upgrades and how much you’re willing to spend to gain them.
Is the LT or LS package better?
Neither the LS nor the LT package is universally "better;" the best choice depends on your priorities. The LT package is better for those who want more features, technology, and comfort at a higher cost, while the LS package is better for those who prioritize affordability and a more basic, cost-effective option.
LT package
- Best for: Buyers who want a more premium and feature-rich experience and are willing to pay more for it.
- Key features: Often includes upgrades like heated seats, advanced infotainment systems, larger screens, LED lighting, and convenience packages with features like remote start and dual-zone climate control.
- Considerations: Costs more upfront than the LS trim.
LS package
- Best for: Buyers on a budget who need a reliable vehicle with essential features and don't need the added luxury or technology of the LT trim.
- Key features: Includes necessary safety and connectivity features, providing good value for its lower price point.
- Considerations: Lacks the many additional comfort, convenience, and technology upgrades found on the LT trim.
Is traverse lt better than LS?
The Chevy Traverse LS has been replaced by the next-level LT as the base model in the 2025 Traverse lineup. The LT is better equipped and optioned, as it offers seating for seven or eight, while the LS only has seating for eight.
What does LT mean on a traverse?
LT stands for “Luxury Touring,” and it's usually the next step up from the base level.
What does LS mean on a Chevy Traverse?
luxury sport
LS means "luxury sport" and is the base model in many Chevrolet vehicles. Unlock the door to the Chevrolet experience with the LS trim level. Discover essential features, a cozy interior, and reliable performance. Whether you're heading to work or tackling your daily tasks, the LS is the smart, budget-friendly choice.
