Is Chevy LT or LTZ Better?

ByKern Campbell

The world of trims for different makes can be confusing. Which is best? Which will suit my needs best? Which should I get? Is the LTZ better than the LT?

The Chevy LTZ trim is better than the LT trim. It has more features and luxury characteristics. It is the highest trim level, although there are options to upgrade for specialized use, like off-roading. It is better, but you may not need the luxurious upgrade it provides.

While the LTZ trim is better, you may not need all of the extras it provides. Or you may find yourself wanting more than the base trim. Learn about the different trims below.

LT Trim

LT stands for Luxury Touring which is a step up from the LS (Luxury Sport). This trim provides upgrades to the standard truck that improve durability and provide luxury features. The biggest upgrades in the LT are geared toward making the ride comfortable.

Upgrades differ for each model, but there are some standard upgrades for all models. Here are some of the features that come with the LT trim:

  • Eight-way adjustable driver’s seat
  • Upgraded Infotainment display
  • Luxury features
  • More comfortable interior 

Each model has its own upgrades that come along with the trim levels. To get an idea of what kinds of upgrades come with a Chevy vehicle, take a look at the Chevrolet Silverado. These are its upgrades:

  • Chrome bumpers
  • Center grille bar matches body color
  • Mirror caps match body color
  • 20” painted aluminum wheels
  • LED headlights and daytime running lights
  • 2.7L turbo available
  • 5.3L Eco Tec3 V8 engine
  • 8 speed automatic transmission
  • 8” (diagonal) color touch-screen infotainment center
  • SiriusXM available

The Chevy Silverado LT package comes with a lot of luxury upgrades that increase durability and comfort. For many, the LT is ideal because it’s more affordable than the LTZ, but it still has luxury features that make the ride more comfortable. (Source)

LTZ Trim

The LTZ trim stands for Luxury Touring Z and comes with all the luxuries of an LT trim and some of its own. Some of its additional features include:

  • Better wheels
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Perforated leather seats
  • Ten-way adjustable driver’s seat
  • HD backup camera
  • Auto dimming rearview mirror
  • SiriusXM

The Chevy Silverado features these specific upgrades on the LTZ:

  • 18” silver painted aluminum wheels
  • 5.3L Eco Tec3 V8 engine
  • Dynamic fuel management
  • Automatic locking rear differential
  • Advanced trailering system
  • 6.2L V8 available
  • Duramax 3.0L turbo-diesel engine available
  • Perforated leather front seating
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel

The Chevy Silverado LTZ definitely comes with some useful upgrades. It features an advanced trailering system, ideal for hard work and fun adventures. 

LTZ is better than the LT trim, but it does come with a steeper price. If you are looking for something more luxurious with better durability of parts and higher capabilities, you may want to go for the LTZ

Other upgrade packages available

Z71

If you are looking for a truck that can take you anywhere, you will want to check out the Z71 package. This package enhances your truck for off-roading. This package may differ slightly per model and some models don’t offer the Z71 package, but most trucks designed with adventure in mind do have this option. This package can be added to any trim. Different trims will affect this package slightly.

Once again, we’re going to take a look at the Chevy Silverado. These are the features that Silverado offers with the Z71 package:

  • Autotrac 2-speed transfer case
  • Twin tube Rancho shocks
  • Metal underbody shield
  • Heavy duty air filter
  • Industry-first air filter monitor
  • All-terrain tires
  • Automatic locking rear differential
  • Hill descent control
  • Protection package 

The Z71 package will give you the tools you need to bring your adventures to the next level. The upgraded shocks improve durability and increase the ride comfort. The all-terrain tires and underbody shield protect your vehicle from the threats of outdoor life.

Trail Boss

The Trail Boss upgrade is available on the LT trim. It makes your LT trim more suitable for off-roading but isn’t as equipped as the Z71 package. Its features include:

  • 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine
  • Dynamic fuel management
  • 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 available
  • Ten-speed automatic transmission
  • Dual-outlet exhaust with polished tips
  • Auxiliary external automatic transmission cooler
  • LED headlights, taillights, fog lights, and cargo area lighting
  • EZ lift power lock and release tailgate
  • Leather wrapped steering wheel
  • Remote vehicle starter system
  • Keyless open and start
  • All-weather floor liners
  • Z71 emblems

The Trail Boss package is a performance upgrade to the LT trim with some luxury perks. This upgrade package will increase durability for off-roading but doesn’t meet the off-road standard of the Z71.

Other available trims

There are different packages available for each model, but the standard packages available for all Chevrolet models are the LS, LT, and LTZ.

L

This is the base model and doesn’t come with anything special. It is the most affordable and Chevy offers a decent base model. If you aren’t looking for much and your budget is smaller, the base model may be all you require.

LS

The Luxury Sport trim offers a few more features than the base model. It comes with a convenience package, an interior protection package, and a chrome package. Some models even have options for better or larger wheels for durability and style.

WT

WT stands for Work Truck. This trim is only available on trucks. The WT trim is geared toward increasing the durability of the truck. Most of the features are standard, but it does come with upgrades to make the truck more ideal for work situations, such as more cargo space, optional vinyl seating, and a rubberized vinyl floor for easy cleanup. High steel strength and 12 tie-downs.

RS

The Rally Sport trim is similar to the LT trim but is classier in look, sporting black grills, wheels, and other accents. The interior is also bold and sporty. Some models offer an upgraded engine with the RS, but most models have similar features to the LT trim.

Premier

Some Chevy models have premier as the best option, with heated leather seats, chrome accents, a high-quality infotainment system, dual climate control, and an upgraded engine. This trim offers a luxury feel and look. 

Which should you get?

Your choice of trim comes down to your budget and your vehicle needs. The LTZ is going to offer the most luxury and the highest durability and performance, but if you aren’t going to use your truck for tough work or rough play, then you may not need to upgrade to the LTZ. There are a lot of options beyond the basic trim as well. There are options within the trims and there are packages that you can add to your trim. You can even build your own custom vehicle if none of the options suit your needs.