In the compact SUV segment, there are often considerable differences in performance between base models and top-of-the-line trims. The 2023 Chevy Equinox is different. The base LS trim shares the same engine and performance specs as the Premier trim.

Even features typically reserved for higher-end vehicle trims are standard or available as options. As such, there’s a convincing case for buyers to go for it. But how much do you have to pay for it, and is it worth the cost savings?

Equinox trim levels

According to Chevrolet, the 2023 Chevy Equinox has four trim levels: LS, LT, RS, and the top-of-the-line Premier trim. Each trim has a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine alongside a six-speed automatic transmission. Also, you have a choice between FWD and AWD drivetrains.

Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-volt cargo area outlet in addition to the one at the front, and a six-speaker system. However, you may miss out on some features by picking the base LS trim. Examples include USB data ports, a heated steering wheel, park assist, automatic dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, etc.

Also, some features are exclusive to the Premier trim, like, wireless charging, auto-dimming rear-view mirrors, HD rear-view camera, and safety alert seat.

Pricing for the base Level Chevy Equinox LS trim

The LS trim is available for a $27,995 starting price which gets you the FWD variant. Opting for the AWD variant raises the MSRP to $29,595, excluding additional costs like dealer, tax, license, and title fees. The base fee also gets you 17-inch wheels with all-season tires and front bucket seats as standard.

There are a few optional upgrades as well. For instance, by picking the Midnight Edition package, you get 18-inch wheels instead of the standard 17-inch. There’s also the addition of black bowtie emblems, a black grille and mesh, and a black metallic exterior.

The LS convenience package adds an eight-way power driver’s seat, tinted rear glass, and a 4.2-inch driver information screen on the gauge cluster. You can even add dealer-installed accessories like trailering hitches, license plate frames, and roof carriers that further drive up the cost.

As for the LT, RS, and Premier trims, they start at $29,095, $32,095, and $33,195. The AWD options for these trims are available from $30,695, $33,695, and $34,795, respectively. However, a fully-loaded Premier AWD trim can cost upwards of $43,820, depending on selected options and upgrades.  

Starting prices for other SUVs in the same market segment, like the 2023 Subaru Forester and Nissan Rogue, are $26,395 and $27,360, respectively.  

The 2023 Chevy Equinox specs

All trims come with the same four-cylinder, 1.5L turbocharged engine, and six-speed automatic transmission; hence performance specs are mostly uniform across the board.

The engine produces 175 hp alongside 203 lb-ft of torque. With that, the Equinox LS FWD variant of the compact SUV can tow up to 1,500 lbs and has a 1,190 lbs payload capacity, according to Edmunds.  

It also offers 26 mpg gas mileage in the city. On the highway, it’s a little more fuel efficient at 31 mpg. While the AWD variants have the same towing capacity, the extra traction does come at the cost of fuel economy, reducing it to 24 and 30 mpg city and highway gas mileage, respectively. There may also be slight differences in the payload capacities.

Lastly, the Chevy Equinox sports 29.9 cu-ft of cargo space behind the backseat and extends to 63.9 cu-ft when the second-row seats are folded.