The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is a rugged full-size pickup with upscale features. From its range of powerful engines to its well-appointed interior, the Sierra 1500 is capable and comfortable. And with many trims to choose from, buyers can select one that fits their needs and budget.

But there’s a big price difference between the base model Pro and the next highest trim, the SLE. Is it worth it? Let’s take a look at the GMC Sierra 1500’s trims and what you get for the money.

What to expect from the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trims

GMC offers an array of trims on the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. From the base model Pro to the decked-out Denali, there’s a package to suit everyone. Here’s what they offer.

$38,995 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro:

• High output turbo 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque

• Fully boxed frame with hydroformed front section and high-strength steel

• Available 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque

$50,045 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE:

• Heated driver and front passenger outboard seats

• GMC Premium Infotainment with a 13.4-inch touchscreen

• Available 3.0-liter Duramax diesel with 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque

$52,245 GMC Sierra Elevation:

• Elevation badging

• Heated steering wheel

• Available Precision Shift 10-speed automatic transmission

$57,745 GMC Sierra SLT:

• Standard 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque

• Cargo bed LED lighting

• Available Max Trailering package

$67,545 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali:

• 20-inch multidimensional polished aluminum wheels

• Standard 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque

• Denali Premium Suspension with Adaptive Ride Control

$68,545 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4:

• 3.0-liter Duramax diesel with 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque

• GMC Premium Infotainment with a 13.4-inch touchscreen

• Integrated trailer brake controller

$82,940 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate:

• 3.0-liter Duramax diesel with 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque

• 22-inch midnight-painted aluminum wheels

• Available Super Cruise driver’s assistance technology

$83,545 GMC Sierra AT4X:

• 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque

• AEV stamped steel high approach front bumper

• Goodyear Territory Mud Terrain tires

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 also comes in several cab configurations, like a regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. 2WD comes standard on Pro, SLE, and Elevation trims, with 4WD optional. Higher trims come equipped with four-wheel drive.

From the base model Pro to the trail-ready AT4X, Sierra trims cover a wide range of prices and feature sets. While the base model Pro has spartan pickup functionality, the Denali approaches luxury car comfort. That gives buyers plenty of choices when shopping for a new ride.

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro vs. SLE: is the price difference worth it?

Pickup trucks are all about function. Trucks get the job done in many scenarios, from their hefty payloads to their towing ability. But with their growth in popularity, pickups have ever-increasing luxury features, with interiors worthy of European sports sedans. Depending on the driver, that could be positive or negative.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro has a function-first design that hearkens back to trucks of yesteryear. With a fully boxed frame and rolled steel bed, the Pro trim is ready for loads, big and small. And with a comfortable yet simple interior, it has everything you need and nothing you don’t. Add in a low MSRP of $38,995 and you’ve got an appealing combo.

On the other hand, the $50,045 SLE trim brings a significant price increase. Though it has more standard features and additional options, function-wise, it isn’t a significant upgrade from the Pro. While the available Duramax diesel is a fine powerplant, it adds even more to that SLE’s increased cost. And though the locking rear differential is nice to have, it’s also an option on the Pro.

The GMC Sierra 1500 Pro is the way to go for work-focused truck buyers. The Pro can handle any job with its burly construction and torquey turbo four. And with an MSRP well below many trucks, it lets budget-minded drivers get behind the wheel of a full-sized rig. Those more focused on luxury amenities might look at the Sierra SLE. But for almost $12,000 less, the Pro is hard to pass up.