Car Buying Strategies
Search Car Buying Strategies Makes & Models Select a Make and Model Makes & Models Select a Make and Model Research Prices Buying Advice
Home / Chevrolet / 2021 Chevrolet Equinox

2021 Chevrolet Equinox Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

2021 Chevrolet Equinox Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: L vs LS vs LT & Premier
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Trim Level Should you Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox is not your run of the mill crossover. At first glance this crossover is the vision of a modern vehicle, but underneath the hood the Equinox offers so much more than what meets the eye. Built to haul family members, this crossover also offers a turbocharged engine option for those who are in the mood for a bit more power. Also, its athletic stature suits the adventurous attitude of the Chevrolet Equinox well. Designed and built by a manufacturer that is known for its quality and notoriety within the auto world, the Chevrolet Equinox is a model to keep in mind for your next purchase.

Developed as a mid-sized crossover in 2004, the Chevrolet Equinox was created to provide drivers with an option that fell somewhere between a compact sedan and a full-size SUV. Providing ample space for passengers and cargo mixed with desirable fuel economy and easy handling are some of the main attributes of the Chevrolet Equinox that buyers find enticing. As Chevrolet's first ever model to push the crossover model into a more robust SUV feel, the Equinox marked a turning point in this brand's innovative efforts.

The Chevrolet Equinox has only seen two generations total with a changeover in 2009. Current in its second generation, this crossover has seen many improvements throughout the years. Usually known for incorporating major changes and model year implementations, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox dialed down its new contributions for the current offering. That is not to say that buyers will not see any fresh attributes in the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, but they will not be as robust as what we have seen in the past.

All 2021 Chevrolet Equinox trim levels feature the same standard safety elements in the form of a comprehensive suite. There are all also similar in the base 1.5-liter turbo engine that is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard front-wheel drive confines the L trim to this setup, while the LS, LT, and Premier trims can opt for an all-wheel drive upgrade. Still yet, the LT and Premier trim levels offer an upgrade to a 2.0-liter turbo engine that is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Finding the perfect 2021 Chevrolet Equinox for your needs is important in considering the purchase of this crossover. Four different trim levels are available with vastly different attributes. To simplify it for you we have put together this guide to help highlight the best features of every 2021 Chevrolet Equinox trim option.

Compare the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L vs LS Trim Levels. What is the difference?

Buyers who are on a budget or enjoy a more simplistic appeal will find refuge in the base model 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L. From its original cloth upholstery to front seats that can be manually adjusted four ways, even the entry-level Chevrolet Equinox is comfort focused. In fact, many buyers appreciate the no-frills approach to Chevrolet's design in its most recent Equinox model.

Many standard features are included in the Chevrolet Equinox base model, which sets it apart from competitors. A 7.0-inch touchscreen, many active safety features, and proximity keyless entry make their way into the L trim design. Buyers who are interested in technology features will also be satisfied with the features of the Chevrolet Equinox L, which include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, and voice recognition, among many others.

Another aspect that makes the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L unique is its inclusion of a comprehensive suite of driver-assistive safety features. To reduce accidents, drivers will find attributes like pedestrian detection and a following distance indicator. Other safety features cater to a specific type of driver, like the innovative Teen Driver System. Yet still, some safety features the L trim utilizes are more traditional, such as a modern-looking rear view mirror and camera setup.

Though the same features are all available in the next trim, the Equinox LS, buyers can also choose to upgrade from the standard offerings. With a driver's seat that can be adjusted eight ways to improve comfort and an entertainment system in the rear to keep passengers occupied, the LS trim can be enhanced to meet your requests. New exterior appearance packages and interior features that are unique to the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox also emerge in the LS trim level.

Compare the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS vs LT Trims. What is the difference?

Since there are only four trim levels offered in the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, we enter the mid-level models quickly. The start of the median trim level offerings consists of the Equinox LS. As previously discussed, the LS closely mimics the L trim with a few additional upgrades that are available for a specific price. Adding in several attributes that are worth the cost, the LS trim is a great value.

Moving deeper into the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox we run into the LT trim, which is a heightened version of the median LS trim option. The LT trim sees the introduction of a few different specialty models that are not available in underlying trims. The Midnight Edition takes many of the design facets of the Chevy Equinox and turns them black to create a distinctive aesthetic. A Sport Edition that plays on the bold features of the Equinox and implements more athletic attributes is also an option.

Not only is the 2021 Chevrolet fun to look at, but it also exhibits modern functionality. One feature specifically available to the LS, LT, and Premier trims aides in vehicle control and fuel efficiency maintenance. Allowing these models to attain up to 31 combined MPG, an inherent feature known as switchable all-wheel drive puts control into the hands of drivers. This functional feature allows drivers to modify their drivetrain abilities as the road ahead governs. Easier travel in snowy conditions and off-road exploration is made easier with this contemporary feature.

Improving upon the comfort that is already ingrained into the Chevrolet Equinox, the LT trim adds a few enhancements for passengers to enjoy. From heated and ventilate front seats to lumber control within the driver seat, this crossover knows what it takes to make you feel right at home. Yet, comfort is not always present solely in the cabin of a vehicle. Exterior elements, like the Equinox’s headlamps that boast high-intensity discharge, improve a driver’s confidence in their vehicle and facilitates comfort in its capabilities.

Compare the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT vs Premier Trim Level. What is the difference?

While there is no denying the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT is prestigious in many ways, there is simply no way to compete with the top Premier trim level for this vehicle. Setting the standard for rivals to meet, the Premier trim for this crossover is savvy, well-equipped, and handsomely styled.

Like all Equinox trims, the Premier incorporates a suite of safety features into every crossover produced. Known as Chevy Safety Assist, this suite consists of a variety of safety enhancements and mechanisms that reduce the likelihood of collision and aide in accident avoidance. From features that notify drivers of nearby hazards to those that assist drivers when they are distracted, this suite intends to help drivers stay safe along the way.

Every aspect of the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier is just as exclusive and detailed as you would expect it to be. Complete with leather upholstered seats that are heated and include driver memory functionality, everything is made easier in the Premier trim. Not only is everything made more convenient and automatic in the Premier trim, but the appearance is more attractive, and functionality is second nature. These attributes are evident in the flashy 18-inch metallic wheels and rear power lift gate the Premier trim includes.

While the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier trim includes many more standard features than other trims, there are still upgrades that can be implemented to take the Premier trim to the next level, too. An HD camera, safety alert seat, and panoramic sunroof are just a few examples of upgrades consumers have access to in the Premier trim. Even still, this list is not all-inclusive, and buyers have access to many different types of available upgrades to select from in a new 2021 Chevrolet Equinox.

Which Trim to Choose?

Where does one begin when considering the attributes, they find the most helpful and desirable in a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox purchase? The first step involves analyzing your lifestyle and what you expect from a new crossover. Is fuel efficiency an important aspect? Will the Equinox comfortably fit your family? What do you expect of the performance of your next vehicle? These are all important considerations to make when determining the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox trim that is the right fit for you.

Some buyers are interested in a model that is economic and provides the bare necessities they find to be the most important in a new vehicle. For such buyers, the cloth upholstery and standard safety features of the base Chevrolet Equinox L trim will suffice. Easy on the pocketbook, user-friendly, and stylish, the L trim level is a great introductory model into the world of the Chevrolet Equinox. Even the standard features of this model are a vast improvement from other competitors.

Consumers who are not necessarily interested in the cheapest option but the vehicle that promotes the best value will likely be the most pleased with the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS trim. Gaining access to a few upgrades, without being too costly, the LS is the perfect solution for buyers who desire a bit more than the base model can offer. At the same time, the Equinox LS is not too upscale or equipped to be considered too expensive or complex for the average buyer. Put into simple terms, the LS trim is just right for a wide array of Equinox enthusiasts.

Convenience and comfort are most easily recognized in the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT trim. Taking all the underlying attributes from the LS trim level, the LT puts a new spin on the well-loved Equinox crossover model. Adding in distinguished features without going all out, the LT seeks to improve upon the attributes that buyers already know and love in the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox.

Sitting proudly at the top, the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier trim is the best this model has to offer. Focused on intricate details and passenger comfort, the Equinox is equipped to make you feel comfortable and confident in your Equinox crossover. Providing the best features the Equinox offers as standard amenities and topping that with additional available upgrades, buyers gain access to many methods of customization in the Premier Equinox trim. The Premier trim is not just your average crossover. It is distinguished and classy in every way possible.

Taking all these options into consideration is key in selecting the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox trim that is the perfect fit for you. Though all Equinox trims are excellent for the perfect buyer, we are here to help you determine exactly what that consists of for you.

Used 2021 Chevrolet Equinox:
Previous Chevrolet Equinox Trim Configurations:

Compare the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Trim Levels