2023 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 had a design that sparked mixed reactions. While some elements, like the split-bar grille, were reminiscent of classic Chevy trucks, the small headlights and aggressive styling were polarizing. The design seemed to align with Chevrolet's current vehicle portfolio, which some might find overly aggressive. However, the Silverado offered various appearance packages, such as the Rally Edition and Redline Edition, to enhance its visual appeal. Inside, the cabin was more universally appealing, with functional controls and two distinct interior layouts depending on the trim. The higher trims featured a modern, high-tech dash centred around a large touchscreen, while the WT and Custom trims retained a simpler, pre-facelift interior.

In contrast, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update in 2022, which refined its already attractive design. The wider grille and updated headlights gave it a sharp look, though it was more of a lateral move in terms of exterior design. The interior, however, marked a significant departure from its predecessor, with a more complex layout that might not appeal to those seeking simplicity. The new infotainment system moved controls lower on the dash but retained traditional climate controls and a volume dial. The Sierra's trims ranged from the base Pro to the luxurious Denali Ultimate, each offering varying levels of comfort and technology.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a range of engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the 5.3-litre V8 delivered 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, while the 6.2-litre V8 offered 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. A six-cylinder Duramax turbodiesel engine was also available, providing 305 hp and 495 lb-ft. The Silverado's base engine came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the other engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic. The truck's towing capacity reached up to 6,000 kilograms (13,300 pounds) with the 6.2-litre V8 and Max Towing package. The Silverado handled well for its size, with the Trail Boss and ZR2 trims offering enhanced off-road capabilities.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 also featured four powertrain options, starting with a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine delivered 305 hp and 495 lb-ft. Two gas V8 engines were available: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The gas four-cylinder engine came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the other engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic. The Sierra's towing capacity reached up to 5,987 kilograms (13,200 pounds) with the diesel engine and RWD. The Sierra Denali Ultimate offered a smooth and composed ride, while the AT4 and AT4X trims provided impressive off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered various body styles, including a regular cab with a standard or long bed, a double cab with a standard bed, and a crew cab with a short or standard bed. The short bed measured 1,776 millimetres (5 feet 8 inches), the standard bed was 2,018 mm (6 feet 6 inches), and the long bed was 2,494 mm (8 feet) long. The regular cab was available in work-focused trims, while the double cab provided easy access to the rear seats with conventional doors. The crew cab offered ample space for passengers and cargo, with a rear bench that folded upward for additional storage.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 also offered a range of body styles, including a regular cab with a standard or long bed, a double cab with a standard bed, and a crew cab with a short or standard bed. Our test model featured the crew cab/short-bed setup, providing generous cabin space with ample head and legroom for both rows. The interior included large storage trays in the doors and a deep centre storage compartment. The rear bench folded up for secure storage, and the GMC MultiPro tailgate offered multiple configurations for added convenience. Bed steps in the rear bumper provided easy access to the cargo bed.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 featured a base infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The WT and Custom trims retained this straightforward setup, while other trims boasted a modern dash with a 13.4-inch touchscreen and wireless connectivity. The LTZ trim added wireless device charging and additional USB ports. The Silverado's infotainment system was user-friendly, with vivid graphics and a fully digital instrument panel in higher trims.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro came with a 7-inch touchscreen and a carryover infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Other trims featured an updated system with a 13.4-inch touchscreen and wireless connectivity. The new system included Google-connected apps and a logical layout with large icons. The Sierra Denali Ultimate offered a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet. A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and a head-up display were available on higher trims.

The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 came equipped with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and lane-departure warning. The Teen Driver system allowed owners to set speed and volume limitations for a second set of keys. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a surround-view camera system, and GM's Super Cruise hands-free highway driving system. The Silverado received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high scores from the IIHS.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 also offered standard safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning. The Teen Driver system was included as well. Higher trims, like the Denali Ultimate, featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and GM's Super Cruise system. The Sierra's rear-vision camera mirror and surround-view camera system enhanced visibility and parking ease.