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Do people buy the most recommended version of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500? One trim level is more popular than all the others. Every version of the GMC full-size truck is a viable option, but some are better than others. Some experts say the best GMC Sierra 1500 trim is not the most popular. Experts don’t recommend the most popular 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim.

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 price, the full-size truck's most popular trim isn't the best.
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

According to Edmunds, the most popular 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim is the Denali model. Like many vehicles in the GMC lineup, the luxurious Denali trim is often a favorite among buyers. Starting at $67,595, it’s the clear point where the full-size truck gains its fanciest features. For example, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, heated second-row seats, and a Bose audio system are standard. Additionally, this trim is available with every drivetrain except the four-cylinder engine.

Since there are so many engines available, choosing one can be difficult. For some Sierra 1500 trims, buyers can’t get whichever version they please. However, the Denali trim can use a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, a 5.3-liter V8, or a 6.2-liter V8. That means regardless of which engine the buyer wants, they’ll get a minimum of 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the 6.2-liter unit maximizes those numbers to 420 hp and 460 lb-ft.

As a result, it’s clear why so many buyers choose the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. It’s lush, luxurious, and has access to multiple potent engines.

2023 GMC Sierra 1500, experts don't recommend the most popular trim.
2023 GMC Sierra 1500 | GMC

Unlike buyers, experts don’t think the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the best one to buy. For example, Car and Driver named the Elevation trim the best version. Starting at $52,245, the third-cheapest model has a lot going for it. In addition to its affordability (compared to the Denali trim), the Elevation model is surprisingly well-equipped.

Mostly, the Elevation trim comes with all features from the SLE model. Highlights include LED bed lighting, a MultiPro configurable tailgate, remote start, a 13.4-inch infotainment screen, a heated leather steering wheel, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Adding the features from the Elevation trim makes the Sierra 1500 even more well-equipped.

The upgrade adds 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, increased towing capacity, a single-speed transfer case, and cloth upholstery. The SLE and Elevation trims also use the four-cylinder, 5.3-liter V8, or diesel powertrain. Any of which is an excellent choice.

Edmunds recommends another 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim

In agreeance with the experts at C/D, Edmunds does not recommend the most popular 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim. However, it doesn’t agree that the Elevation model is the one to buy. Instead, this critic suggests the $50,545 SLE trim, one below the Elevation model.

It’s clear that the two are nearly the same, as most equipment is shared. Buyers of the Elevation trim get a few extras, but some might not be significant for buyers. Edmunds says the SLE trim is better because it “finds an optimal balance between features and price.”

We have to agree, as the SLE features are plentiful, and the Elevation model doesn’t add a whole lot. Unless increased towing capacity is vital to your full-size truck buying choice, we don’t think the Elevation upgrades are worth the price.

In conclusion, experts think the best 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trims are the SLE or Elevation, not the most popular Denali. Although the two disagree on the best option, both suggest a more affordable trim that doesn’t break the bank. We think the SLE trim is the best to buy since it has so many extras for the money. The Elevation trim is similar but doesn’t provide enough added value to make it worth the cash.

Related

What Makes the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation Trim so Popular?

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.