Base prices on cars are often little more than theoretical, as actually buying a car without any optional equipment is quite often an extremely difficult thing to do. But manufacturers will sometimes make thoroughly stripped down versions of their cars in order to keep you from having to pay too much for what you don't want. Such is the case with the new "L" trim levels of several GM vehicles, designed to make the models more competitive in their segments.

This is most significant in the case of the Chevy Cruze, which sheds about $1,500 from its price tag in L form, bringing the price down to $16,995. The Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain and Buick LaCrosse will all receive a similar treatment. Of course, these aren't genuine stripper trims; the aforementioned Cruze will keep its 4G LTE internet, keyless entry, satellite radio and USB port. The savings come in the form of ditching things like floor mats and the spare tire. The price differences are noticeable, but are again largely theoretical, as razor thin profit margins for dealerships will make these trims rare.