Picking The Right Trim Level For Your New Car

One of the most difficult aspects of buying a new car is deciding what trim to get. Many car models have at least a couple of distinct trim levels, and many cars have several trim levels. Trim levels typically start at a base trim and then go up with new standard features added to each subsequent level. They may add more engine choices, safety features, technology, transmission options and much more. Some car models also have trims geared towards a certain theme. For example, some models have tech trims with all the latest technology. Some trucks and SUVs offer off-road trims that feature beefed-up suspensions, more ground clearance, bigger tires and other items conducive to off-road prowess. Let's take a look at the various differences in trim levels for cars, trucks and SUVs.

What Are the Differences in Trim Levels?

The idea behind trim levels is to offer different packages of a specific car model, which allows buyers to choose something that meets their needs. Base trims are typically the least expensive trim on any model. Some cars have very well-equipped base trims, while others have extremely basic setups. The Kia Rio is an example of a very basic base model. The base Rio doesn't even offer power windows. The difference between trim levels also depends on how many trim levels a car has. For models that only have two or three trim levels, the base trim might be decently equipped. The second and third level may have more options for engines and other convenient features. A common thing for crossovers is to have the base trim only offer front-wheel drive, while the higher trims either come standard with AWD or have it as an option. Similarly, base truck trims are often only two-wheel-drive, while the higher trims have 4WD as an option at least.

Examples of Car Trim Levels And What They Include

Let's take a look at three different cars and what trim levels they offer.

• Honda Civic - the 2019 Civic Sedan offers the following five trims: LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The first two trim levels have a standard 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine. The next three trim levels offer a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that has more horsepower. In terms of tech, the base LX trim has a five-inch touchscreen, while the higher trims get a seven-inch touchscreen. Heated and leather seats are also available for all trims over the Sport trim.
• Chevy Spark - the 2019 Spark offers the following four trims: LS, 1LT, ACTIV, and 2LT. The price for the base Spark LS is $13,220, and it goes up to $16,620 for the 2LT. The base Spark is very basic and does not include power locks or windows. Those can be found on the next trim level in the 1LT. The second-highest trim level in the ACTIV has a raised height, unique interior design and heated front seats. The top trim adds tech features like push-button start and keyless entry among others.
• Volkswagen Golf - the 2019 Golf offers the following three trims: S, SE, and R. The base Golf S trim starts at $21,845, offers a turbo four-cylinder engine and a good range of tech features. The middle trim adds more tech features, a bigger touchscreen and synthetic leather seats. The top trim starts at $40,395, which is a big jump from the middle trim's price of $24,145. It adds AWD, leather seats and an incredibly powerful turbo engine.

How to Choose the Right Trim Level

Choosing the right trim level is a combination of budget and needs. As previously mentioned, each subsequent trim level typically costs more than the one below it. Sometimes there's quite a large price difference, such as in the indicated Golf example. Sometimes various options can be added to trim levels, but sometimes this also depends on the trim level. Some options may not be able to be added to base trims, for example. The best way to know what trim level is right for you is to have a budget in mind and certain features that you absolutely must have. A good rule of thumb is not to buy any more car than you need, which means sticking with the lowest level trim that fits in your budget and has all the main features that you want.