2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a half-ton pickup that offers a wide array of options. This full-sized truck comes in three different cab styles with two different potential bed lengths. There are 2WD (two-wheel drive) and 4WD (four-wheel drive) variations of the Silverado. It's also available with four different powertrains. Last of all, there are a total of nine different trim levels to choose from.

Regular Cabs have two doors and space for two or three passengers in the front and only row. These models lack a backseat but make up for this with a longer cargo bed. Double Cabs have room for six passengers. These are only available with a standard bed length. Crew Cab models have four doors, a large backseat area and the choice of either a short or standard bed.

The standard Silverado 1500 bed length is 6-feet, 7-inches. The short bed is 5-feet, 10-inches; and the long bed comes in at 8-feet, 2-inches. With so many options to choose from, buying a new Silverado 1500 might seem like a complicated task. Here's a rundown and comparison of every trim level. We will also take a look at which model might be the best overall.

Compare the Silverado WT vs Custom Trims. What Is the Difference?

The WT trim is a basic stripped-down work truck. In fact, work truck is what the WT actually stands for. It's available in all cab styles and bed-length configurations. It also comes in 2WD or 4WD variations. This trim gets a 2.7-liter turbocharged I4 engine. WT models produce 310 horsepower with 430 pound-feet of torque.

The WT and Custom trims both share the same powertrain. This includes the same 8-speed automatic transmission. They both have a Single-speed Autotrac Transfer Case and StabiliTrak. StabiliTrak is the automaker's proprietary electronic stability-control system with traction control. The Custom trim also gets Chevrolet's High-Capacity Suspension Package. This suspension upgrade increases the truck's maximum payload capacity.

The WT trim has a set of 17-inch steel wheels. The Custom models get a set of 20-inch Bright Silver painted aluminum wheels. Both trims get all-season tires and a spare. Custom models have some extras for the exterior. This includes LED lighting in the cargo bed and deep-tinted glass. The Custom trim also includes heated power mirrors on the outside.

On the inside of WT models, there are 4-way manual seats up front. Custom models provide a 10-way power driver seat and lumbar support. The WT models have easy-to-clean vinyl seats that are well-suited for a work vehicle. Custom models get cloth trim for the seats. Both trims have a Single-Zone Climate-Control system.

These two trims have Chevrolet's Infotainment 3 System with a 7-inch color touchscreen. This system has Voice command pass-through for hands-free phone calls. It also has Bluetooth technology for connecting devices and streaming music. The system works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for those who have compatible phones. The Custom trim gets wireless capabilities for those two popular apps.

Both trim levels have an AM/FM stereo with six speakers. Moving up to the Custom trim comes with the option for a WiFi hotspot. This allows multiple passengers to connect devices to the internet at the same time. Custom models have extra USB ports for connectivity and device charging. This trim level also comes with cruise control, a hitch guidance and a compass.

The WT and Custom share many of the same safety features. Both have six airbags, daytime running lamps and Automatic Emergency Braking. Forward Collision Alert warns of impending front crashes. A Following Distance Indicator makes sure the driver keeps a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of them. Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning alert drivers when they veer too far from the safety of their own lanes.

Compare the Silverado Custom vs Custom Trail Boss. What Is the Difference?

The Custom Trail Boss adds a wealth of new features to improve its off-road performance. This includes skid plates to protect the underbody. This trim level is available in Double and Crew Cab variations. It comes with a standard or short bed depending on the cab one chooses. It has the same powertrain and many of the same mechanical features as the previous two trims.

An automatic locking rear differential aids with the truck's off-road performance. Chevy also includes a set of rear performance recovery hooks for the Custom Trail Boss. These allow drivers to pull the Silverado out of trouble if it gets stuck during some off-road fun. This trim level gets Chevrolet's Z71 suspension with a 2-inch lift. There's also a 2-speed transfer case by Autotrac to help get the truck over and through challenging terrain.

The Custom Trail Boss shows off a set of 18-inch aluminum wheels with a glossy black finish. On the inside, there aren't too many differences when comparing these two trims. They have most of the same convenience and entertainment features. They share most of the same safety features as well. This includes a Tire-Pressure Monitor, an HD rear camera and OnStar & Chevrolet Connected Services.

Compare the Silverado Custom Trail Boss vs LT Trim. What Is the Difference?

While the Custom Trail Boss focuses on off-road prowess, the LT trim is built for comfort and convenience. These two trims have the same powertrain, but the LT loses the off-road upgrades. The LT has smaller 17-inch aluminum wheels. Both bumpers and the mirror caps are now finished in beautiful chrome. LT models also get high-intensity LED reflector headlights.

The LT comes with Chevrolet's Convenience Package. This includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The steering wheel and gear-shift knob are now wrapped in fine leather. A Dual-Zone Automatic Climate-Control system keeps everyone comfortable up front and in the rear. The LT also includes Keyless Entry, Remote Start and a rear-window defogger.

The steering wheel now includes built-in audio controls. This trim also gets a Theft-Deterrent System. The infotainment system remains the same, but Chevy now includes a free trial for SiriusXM Satellite Radio. The driver-assist features and passive safety features remain the same.

Compare the Silverado LT vs RST Trim Levels. What Is the Difference?

The RST comes stock with the same 2.7-liter turbo engine. It does, however, come with a few more options here. It can be outfitted with a 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V8. The RST is also available with a 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel. It sports 18-inch Bright Silver painted aluminum wheels and all-season blackwall tires.

RST trim models get LED fog lamps for a better view in inclement weather. A seven-speaker audio system by Bose is now available as an option. There are several options available for this trim to give it a more sporty appearance too. Two such options are the Rally and Redline packages. These packages mostly offer cosmetic flourishes.

Compare the Silverado RST vs LT Trail Boss. What Is the Difference?

The LT Trail Boss is an amalgamation of the LT and Custom Trail Boss trims. This trim is only produced with a Crew Cab configuration. Potential buyers can select either a short or standard cargo box. The LT Trail Boss comes right off the assembly line with 4WD for better traction and off-road performance. LT Trail Boss trims come equipped with the 2.7-liter base engine, but this can be exchanged for any of the available engines.

The LT Trail Boss has all of the off-road upgrades of the Custom Trail Boss. It's mechanically identical to that trim level. It also gets all of the convenience and entertainment features of the LT trim. Last of all, this trim has the same safety features as the previous trims. This model offers a great mix of off-road capabilities and in-cabin comfort.

Compare the LT Trail Boss vs ZR2. What Is the Difference?

Selecting a ZR2 takes this truck's performance specs up another notch. This trim is an off-road beast in the truest sense of that term. It features an upgraded suspension that includes a 3.23 rear-axle ratio and a full-locking differential up front. This trim level has a special ZR2 suspension package, Multimatic DSSV dampers and a higher ground clearance.

The ZR2 has a 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine under its hood. This configuration makes 420 horsepower with 460 pound-feet of torque. This specific trim level of the Silverado comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. There's an electronic precision shifter for smooth and accurate gear changes. This trim also comes with a couple of sporty bucket seats up front.

The ZR2 isn't just all about performance. It also offers a quiet, cozy and well-equipped cabin. Both front seats are power-adjustable with 10 positions. There's a 12.3-inch driver-information screen to provide necessary info at a glance. This trim level automatically gets the upgraded Bose sound system. A bed-view camera allows the driver to keep an eye on their cargo.

Compare the ZR2 vs LTZ. What Is the Difference?

LTZ models get a 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine. This motor cranks out 355 horses with 383 pound-feet of torque. It's not quite the performer that the ZR2 is, but it takes the truck up one step closer to being a luxury vehicle. This model once again comes with the Bose audio system with seven speakers. It also gets heated and ventilated seats up front. A wireless charging pad makes it fast and easy to keep one's smartphone running too.

One unique new feature of this trim level is the Safety Alert Driver's Seat. The LTZ also can be outfitted with HD Surround Vision, perimeter lighting and trailer camera provisions. Trailer Side Blind-Zone Alert and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Braking round out some of the great additions to this model.

Compare the LTZ vs High Country. What Is the Difference?

The High Country represents the best of what Chevrolet has to offer. It comes stock with the 5.3-liter V8, but can be equipped with any of the available engines. This trim gets the front bucket seats like the LTZ. These again have heating, ventilation and 10 positions, as well as lumbar support. The High Country gets a power sunroof and painted aluminum wheels with chrome inserts too.

Owners of the High Country will appreciate the larger touchscreen display and premium audio system by Bose. The interior here is more upscale and luxurious than previous trims. This trim level gets access to GM’s Super Cruise technology too. This is a semi-autonomous driving technology that works on compatible highways. A spray-in bedliner looks great and should last a long time. A set of automatic side-steps makes it easier to get in and out of the truck.

Final Thoughts

There's no easy answer to this question. It really depends on what one plans to use their truck for. If it's strictly a work truck, the WT trim will work out just fine. If the buyer desires a posh interior with all of the bells and whistles, the High Country is the best choice. For off-road enthusiasts, the ZR2 will be their best bet. For the best value and versatility, go with the LT Trail Boss. It's a do-anything truck with a great starting price. It will be the best bargain for the majority of buyers.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trim Levels