According to critics, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the more popular full-size trucks. It’s a safe, capable model with many standard features. For most people, buying the GMC pickup or a competitor from 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 the best 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim. There are too many fantastic 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 buying 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 fees higher than only two other trims. Unfortunately, it’s roughly $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 a middle ground in terms of price but comes with a desirable appearance package that looks cool. You’ll also have to select between a few different cab configurations and bed lengths depending on what fits your needs. All-wheel drive is available at an extra cost should you require it,” said Car and Driver.

In addition to Pro and SLE trim equipment, the Elevation model gains more. Highlights include 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, increased towing capacity, a single-speed transfer case for 4WD versions, and cloth upholstery. Engine and cab configurations vary based on a few different things, like rear- 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 the SLE trim is the best one to buy. Starting at $50,545, it’s a little less expensive than the C/D-recommended Elevation trim. However, most of the essential equipment still comes with this version of the full-size truck. Although it’s the second-cheapest trim in the lineup, it is still nearly $14,000 more than the Pro base model.

The publication chose the Sierra 1500 SLE: “The SLE trim finds an optimal balance between features and price. It adds a lot of items that transform the basic work rig into a truck more appropriate for personal and family use. These include cruise control, carpeting, heated seats and the versatile MultiPro tailgate.”

Although it doesn’t get the few features added by the Elevation model, a Sierra 1500 SLE is well-equipped. It has LED bed lighting, a MultiPro configurable tailgate, a rearview camera with trailer hitch guidelines, an automatic-locking rear differential, remote start, cruise control, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats. In addition to the Pro base model features, the SLE additions solidify the Sierra 1500 as a luxurious full-size truck.

What is the best 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim?

Buying a full-size truck is challenging because everyone wants something different. We think the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE is the better option for most buyers. However, that certainly doesn’t make the Elevation model a poor selection. Buying the SLE model gets owners everything they want from a pickup, plus some seriously luxurious features. Opting for the Elevation trim is worth it only for the added towing capacity, larger wheels, and single-speed transfer case when equipped with four-wheel drive. Additionally, the SLE is less expensive, also adding many more features than the Pro base model offers.

Which 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 full-size truck version do you think is the best? Experts disagree about which trim to buy.