What are the differences between the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox LS and Premier trims in terms of features and performance?

Overview

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox comes in multiple trims, including the LS and the Premier. While both trims serve different market needs, they offer significant distinctions in terms of features and performance.

Performance

The performance for both the LS and Premier trims is largely similar as both come with the same standard engine:

• 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine
• 170 horsepower
• 203 lb-ft of torque
• 6-speed automatic transmission

However, it’s the additional or enhanced performance features in the Premier trim that set it apart:

• Upgraded suspension for a more comfortable ride
• Optional all-wheel drive (also available in LS trim, but standard in some regions for Premier)

Interior Features

Interior features in both trims cater to different levels of comfort and luxury.

• Seating: The LS trim comes with cloth upholstery, whereas the Premier trim offers leather-appointed seating.
• Infotainment: Both trims come with a 7-inch touchscreen as standard, but the Premier trim can be upgraded to an 8-inch screen with integrated navigation.
• Sound System: The LS trim features a basic 6-speaker audio system. In contrast, the Premier trim includes a 7-speaker Bose premium audio system.
• Climate Control: Single-zone manual climate control is standard in the LS trim, while dual-zone automatic climate control is available in the Premier trim.

Exterior Features

The exterior differences help distinguish the two trims aesthetically and functionally.

• Lighting: The Premier trim features LED headlamps and taillamps, while the LS trim comes with halogen bulbs.
• Wheels: The LS trim comes standard with 17-inch aluminum wheels while the Premier trim offers upgraded 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Safety Features

Both trims are equipped with essential safety features, but the Premier trim offers some advanced options.

• Standard Safety: Both trims include standard safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Alert.
• Additional Features: The Premier trim offers additional safety features like a Surround Vision camera and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Comfort and Convenience

The comfort and convenience features vary significantly between the two trims.

• Seating Adjustments: The LS trim comes with manually adjustable front seats, whereas the Premier trim includes power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support.
• Interior Lighting: The Premier trim includes ambient interior lighting for a more luxurious feel, absent in the LS trim.
• Remote Start: Standard on the Premier trim but available as an option on the LS trim.

Price

Price is a crucial differentiator between the two trims. The LS is the entry-level model and tends to be more affordable, while the Premier is positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum, reflecting its additional features and luxury.

Understanding these differences can help you decide which 2023 Chevrolet Equinox trim best suits your needs, balancing performance, comfort, safety, and budget.