What does car trim mean?

Although “trim” can literally refer to your car’s trim, a trim level (also commonly referred to as a trim package) is a version of a particular model with a particular configuration. The different trim levels offer varieties to the exterior and interior elements of a particular model, in addition to performance options, technologies, and even safety options. While many manufacturers today offer customers a wide array of trims, some models are still offered in a single configuration. Knowing how to differentiate trim levels will help you make a better choice.

The idea of naming vehicle options using designated letters first became popular in the early 1980s. Base, mid-, and high-end are the most commonly used trim levels, but some manufacturers opt to use specific letter combinations as a moniker to differentiate between trim levels.  These designations are often found on the car’s aft, usually near the model name.  

Manufacturers have their own set of letters for different trims, and the naming may differ across different markets even if under the same brand - but here are some of the most commonly used monikers:

● CE: Classic/Custom edition

● D/DL/DX: Deluxe

● EX/X: Extra

● GL: Grade level

● GLE: Grade Level Extra

● GT: Grand Touring

● LE/LX: Luxury

● LTD: Limited

● S: Sport/Special/Standard

● SE: Sport edition/Special edition/Special equipment

● SL: Standard level

● T: Touring edition