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2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Pro vs SLE and Elevation, SLT vs AT4 vs Denali, AT4X and Denali Ultimate
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Trim Should You Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is a great entry-level pickup truck that packs plenty of power and is known for its reliable nature. This pickup scales from basic to luxury over the course of eight trims. While the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 ranges in its aesthetics and comfort, you can expect to find classy design elements and striking design concepts across all trims.


Boasting a signature GMC emblem on its grille, passersby can easily identify the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 as it glides by. It demands attention even in its standard trim level and shows off a bold exterior wherever it goes. Aside from its looks, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is undeniably capable, outfitted for utility, and ready to go. Starting off on an economical note and going up as the level of sophistication increases, there is a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 to fit the budget of every buyer.

Now that we know the range of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500, let's go over the trim level options you have. In the GMC Sierra 1500 for the 2023 model year lineup, there are eight trims that consist of the Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, Denali, AT4X, and Denali Ultimate.

Compare the Pro vs SLE Trims. What is the difference?

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro is certainly one impressive truck! It packs a punch with its entry-level trim and plenty of premium features, such as seating for three or six passengers depending on the cab configuration you choose. And if that weren't enough to excite - think about this: you can pick from regular, double OR crew cabs AND standard, short OR long boxes -- all without compromising on comfort levels in comparison to the SLE trim's options of double/crew cab and standard/short box configurations.

When you get under the hood, there are plenty of options to choose from. The standard engine is a 2.7-Liter turbo that has an impressive 9,400 lbs towing capacity; however if you're looking for even more power then upgrading to the 5.3L V8 takes it up another notch with 11,200lbs max! For those who really want some serious horsepower and performance potential look no further than your SLE's optional upgrade - the 3.0 Liter Duramax Turbo Diesel which delivers 305 horses while still having an incredible 13k pounds in tow.

Both the Pro and the SLE offer 2WD or 4WD, as well as a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. In the SLE you'll also find an automatic locking rear differential. Standard cruise control is also an amenity you'll get in the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE that is not available in the Pro trim.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro is awesome, with a rear vision camera for reversing safely and LED daytime running lamps to keep you visible. But if you upgrade to the SLE trim, prepare for even more awesomeness! Check out the impressive 13.4-inch infotainment screen plus an uber handy 12" driver information center that lets you quickly access important vehicle stats like climate control settings or heated front seats - all from your fingertips! Plus remote start so no matter what kind of weather it is outside, inside will be just right when it's time go on those quick errands around town.

Compare the SLE vs Elevation Trim Levels. What is the difference?

In many ways the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation is much like its SLE predecessor. Yet, there are a few changes in the Elevation model some buyers may prefer over those of the SLE. To begin with, both the SLE and Elevation trims feature an option between a double or crew cab and a standard or short box. Both also feature six-passenger seating.

Yet, the Elevation trim of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 takes its design elements to the next level. Black recovery hooks adorn the front, which are useful for pulling this off-road enthusiast out of sticky situations. Also, a high-capacity suspension helps this truck sit taller but also absorb bumps more fully in your excursions.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation also shows off 20-inch high gloss black wheels that are both rugged and sophisticated. This truck continues balancing upscale concepts with all-terrain abilities in its incorporation of cloth rear seats with extra storage and a rear window defogger. In the Elevation trim of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 you'll also find LED fog lamps, which are helpful in hazy driving circumstances.

Compare the Elevation vs SLT Trims. What is the difference?

Options within the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT become much more exclusive. In fact, the SLT trim is the only model to offer an available 6.2-Liter V8 engine that is capable of producing 420-hp, putting out 460 lb.-ft. of torque, and hauling 13,000 pounds at its maximum trailering capacity. This engine also has integrated Dynamic Fuel Management for enhanced fuel conservation, and it is paired with an upgraded 10-speed automatic transmission.

While this engine option is quite impressive, the SLT relies upon a standard 5.3L EcoTec V8 engine for most versions of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. This truck then also narrows its interior design to include only crew cab seating for up to six passengers. A ten-way power front driver's seat is a nice addition to the SLT interior, as are perforated leather-appointed seats.

An elevated exterior look is also achieved in the SLT through the integration of perimeter lighting, chrome exterior accents, and 18-inch dark gray metallic-accented wheels. Functional enhancements that set the SLT apart also include an auto-dimming rearview mirror to help you see better when driving at night by dimming down the bright lights behind you, as well as heated exterior side mirrors that also feature auto-dimming technology.

Compare the SLT vs AT4. What is the difference?

Just when you thought the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 couldn't get any better, in steps the off-road AT4 model that is ready to go wherever you call it to. The At4 comes standard with a 3.0-Liter Duramax turbodiesel engine for ultimate power and reliability. In fact, this powertrain offers up 305hp, 495 lb.-ft of torque, and a max 4WD diesel towing capacity of 13,000 pounds in the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 layout. A two-speed Autotrac transfer case is also unique to the AT4 model of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500.

The AT4 trim also sets itself apart from other models with its signature red recovery hooks that are both useful and functional, as well as incorporating signature skid plates for off-road protection. An off-road suspension makes your ride feel better, while it also provides a 2-inch factory lift to make this truck sit higher than the rest.

Additional aesthetic attributes for the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 include 18-inch wheels with dark gray accents that are adorned with 18-inch mud terrain Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires. Not only are these tires and wheels good-looking, but they are also quite functional for the AT4 model that was designed for rugged travel.

Compare the AT4 vs Denali Trim. What is the difference?

In ascending from the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 to the Denali, you can expect a changeover from an off-road focus to a concentration on sophisticated design. The Denali trim is the level at which the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 becomes more luxurious and accommodating. It grabs your attention with its design and gets you comfortable in its cabin.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is making luxury crave-worthy. With heated rear seats for your comfort, a power-sliding window that boosts convenience and its universal home remote feature – what's not to love? Plus the ventilated front seats will keep you cool in any heat wave! But the cherry on top has got to be their spray bedliner protection which guarantees this ride stays looking spiffy stat after state - so get ready to hit those roads with style.

With the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, you'll be driving with confidence and entertainment. Safety amenities like a trailer blind zone alert, rear pedestrian alert and rear cross-traffic braking ensure that your passengers will stay safe while an in-vehicle trailering app provides enhanced visibility of what's towing behind you! For relaxation on the road there is also an advanced Bose sound system along with front/rear park assist HD surround vision plus auxiliary trailer cameras - providing all round views for any situation.

Compare the Denali vs AT4X. What is the difference?

Serious off-road enthusiasts will undoubtedly enjoy the benefits of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X trim. One of the most notable features of the AT4X are the front and rear e-lockers that aren't offered as a combination on any other trim in this class. A signature AEV-stamped front bumper with front winch capacity and matching hot-stamped boron steel front approach skid plate are design elements you'll only find on this exclusive model.

Comfort is also a top concern in the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X, as is evident in its integration of heated and ventilated front seats that can be maneuver 16 ways complete with massage functionality. To stay entertained along the way, the AT4X also incorporates a Premium Series 12-Speaker Bose Audio System with Centerpoint Surround Sound.

Unlike the regular AT4, the AT4X boasts a standard 6.2L V8 gasoline engine. It is paired with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission, and the AT4X also features Multimatic DSSV Spool-Valve Dampers, too.

Compare the AT4X vs Denali Ultimate. What is the difference?

If you're in search of the best of the best in the new 2023 GMC Sierra 1500, the Denali Ultimate is the most equipped and luxurious option. Topping even the upscale Denali trim and the AT4X, the Denali Ultimate is chock full of features that heighten the look of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 and enhance its convenience and capabilities. Simply put, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate is the top of the line.

Showing off chrome recovery hooks, 22-inch Midnight-painted wheels with bright chrome inserts, and GMC Multipro Power Steps, the Denali Ultimate is the best-adorned 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 model you can get. On the inside you can also expect to find upscale design elements like a head-up display, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power sunroof.

In terms of technology, the Denali Ultimate goes all out in this area, too. It integrates a bed view camera for constant monitoring of loads in tow. A head-up display is integrated to bring immediate stats to drivers without hindering their focus on the road ahead, as well. In the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate you will always be entertained with a 12-speaker Bose Premium Series audio system, as well as a MultiPro Audio System by Kicker.

Final Thoughts

From the everyday commuter to the light hauler and from the off-road enthusiast to the ultra-classy, there is a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 for every buyer. The beauty of this pickup truck model is that it is so dynamic it can appeal to an array of buyers. Yet, there has to be one option that is the most diverse and well-suited for the largest group of shoppers. In our opinion, the best trim of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is the SLT.

If you're looking for a stylish, versatile pick-up truck that will fit the needs of nearly any driver, then GMC's Sierra 1500 model is sure to have something perfect. With its wide array of trims and features tailor made for different lifestyles - from busy commuters to offroad adventurers – it can be hard to choose just one! That being said though we think the most well rounded option has got to be their SLT trim; it truly marries style with substance in all kinds of ways.


Compare Trims on other 2023 GMC Models:

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Trims
Previous Year Trim Configurations:

2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Trim Levels