According to critics, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the most popular full-size pickups. It is a safe and capable model with many standard features. For most people, buying the GMC truck or a competitor to Ford, Ram, or another automaker seems like the perfect option. However, any version of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is a better option than expected. In fact, experts disagree on which is the best version of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. There are too many great options to choose just one. Should you buy a Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, Denali, or another trim?
1 Expert Recommends the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation
First, car and driver recommends purchasing the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation trim above all other models. As a mid-tier model in the lineup, it starts at $52,245 with rates higher than just two other trims. Unfortunately, it’s about $15,000 more than the base Pro model. However, C/D says the price is worth it.
“We like the Sierra Elevation trim level because it occupies the middle ground in terms of price, but it comes with a desirable appearance package that looks great. You’ll also have to select from a few different cab configurations and bed lengths to suit your needs. All-wheel drive is available at additional cost should you require it,” said Car and Driver.
In addition to the Pro and SLE trim equipment, the Elevation model gains more. Additional highlights include 20-inch wheels, LED fog lights, increased towing capacity, a single-speed transfer case for 4WD versions, and cloth upholstery. Engine and cabin configurations vary based on a few different things, like rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
Another Expert Disagrees About the New Sierra 1500
Next, edmunds recommends a different version of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. This expert believes that the SLE version is the best to buy. Starting at $50,545, it’s slightly less expensive than the C/D-recommended Elevation model. However, most of the essential equipment still comes with this version of the full-size truck. Although it’s the second cheapest model in the lineup, it’s still nearly $14,000 more than the base Pro model.
The publication chose the Sierra 1500 SLE: “The SLE version finds an optimal balance between features and price. It adds a host of items that transform the basic work platform into a truck more suitable for personal and family use. These include cruise control, floor mats, heated seats and the versatile MultiPro tailgate.”
Although it doesn’t have the few added features of the Elevation model, a Sierra 1500 SLE is well equipped. It has LED lighting in the bed, a MultiPro configurable tailgate, a rearview camera with tow hitch guides, an auto-locking rear differential, remote start, cruise control, keyless entry/start, automatic climate control from two zones, a 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats. In addition to the features of the base Pro model, the SLE additions solidify the Sierra 1500 as a luxurious full-size pickup.
What is the best 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 model?
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Buying a full-size truck is challenging because everyone wants something different. We believe the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE is the best option for most buyers. That certainly doesn’t make the Elevation a bad pick, though. By purchasing the SLE model, owners get everything they want in a truck, plus some seriously luxurious features. Opting for the Elevation trim alone is worth the added towing capacity, larger wheels, and single-speed transfer case when equipped with four-wheel drive. Plus, the SLE is less expensive and also adds a lot more features than what the base Pro model offers.
Which 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 full-size pickup version do you think is the best? Experts disagree on which molding to buy.