It used to be that choosing a truck came down to option A or option B. It was simple and straightforward, but lacked choices. Now, however, the truck segment is like a smorgasbord of tech, safety, and performance treats to choose from. From basic to bold and everything in between, the options are nearly limitless. Trying to find the right vehicle for you could feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. A truck that is “just right” is out there, and it happens to be the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT.
A perfect combination of performance, safety, technology and price, this middle-of-the-road truck is everything you could need in a vehicle. The 1500 is a powerhouse of capability and practicality, with enough luxury extras that you will be riding in comfort without paying for a bunch of unnecessary extras.
Prime Performance
What powers a truck matters, and what powers this particular trim is pretty potent. That standard engine beating under the hood of the LT is a 2.7L turbo I-4 that dishes out 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, perfect for towing, hauling or simply just cruising. While a four-cylinder engine may sound a bit small, the turbo gives you enough get-up-and-go that you may just forget the engine has only half as many cylinders as you might expect. With the eight-speed automatic transmission pairing, the LT will quietly slip in and out of gears, providing you with smooth sailing.
If this still isn’t enough engine for you, a more traditional 5.3L V8 is available as an option. This engine makes a respectable 355 horsepower, but 383 lb-ft of torque, which is actually less than the 2.7L turbo. If maximum torque is what you need, Chevy’s 3.0L Duramax diesel is also an option, making 305 horsepower and a whopping 495 lb-ft of torque. Both of these larger engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Both of these transmissions are enhanced with Powertrain Grade Braking for added control. This feature automatically downshifts gears to help slow the LT down when driving downhill, maximizing control and reducing wear and tear on the brake components. Cruise Grade Braking works in a similar respect but is activated when the vehicle is in cruise mode to maintain a constant speed.
Another great benefit is the inclusion of Tow/Haul Mode, which optimizes downshift and upshift points to maximize performance when towing or hauling excessively large loads. It causes the transmission to downshift more often to keep the engine in its powerband, as well as run in lower gears downhill with the Powertrain Grade Braking feature. Whether you are comfortable with towing or new to the game, Tow/Haul mode will take the edge off, making you feel more secure and safe.
The LT trim is available as two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, with the four-wheel drive option offering more performance bonuses. Four-wheel drive models come standard with a Single-Speed Autotrac Transfer Case which allows the vehicle to switch between 2WD HI, 4WD Auto, 4WD HI, and Terrain modes. 2WD HI is a great option to save on gas when performing normal, everyday driving, letting you enjoy the benefits of two-wheel drive while still having access to four-wheel drive. 4WD Auto behaves like a full-time all-wheel drive system, normally running in 2WD but automatically switching to 4WD for extra grip if it detects the drive wheels slipping. 4WD Auto can even be used for light off-roading. For rougher off-road conditions, like snow or deep sand, the LT can be switched into 4WD HI mode which will increase traction further by locking into four-wheel drive. Terrain mode is another off-road driving mode that uses 4WD HI, but improves low-speed traction when driving at slower speeds, ideal for careful maneuvering.
The LT has even more tricks up its fascia with the Eaton Locker. The Eaton Locker is an Automatic Locking Rear Differential that senses wheel slippage and locks the rear wheels together so that they can spin evenly. If one tire has grip and the other does not, the Eaton Locker can remedy the situation by forcing both wheels to turn together.
Keeping with the traction theme is the included Stabilitrak system, which improves traction in slippery, wet, or less than ideal conditions. If Stabilitrak notices one of the wheels slipping, it will gently engage the brake on that wheel only to stop it from slipping. Stabilitrak also includes Chevy’s Trailer Sway Control system, which helps to prevent the sway caused by passing wind, as well as Hill Start Assist helps to maintain traction and avoid rolling backward when setting off from a stop on an uphill. All of these features come together to provide optimal control and performance for the Chevy Silverado 1500 LT.
Tow and Haul With the LT
Ready to get the job done, the LT is equipped with plenty of gadgets and gizmos to make life easier and maybe even a little fun. The LT includes the Trailering Package, which equips the vehicle with a Trailer Hitch and Platform. A wiring harness is also part of the deal, making it quick and easy to connect the trailer’s brake system and lights to your truck. Towing capacities vary depending on which cab, box, and engine you choose. Properly equipped, the 2.7L turbo I-4 can tow up to 9,400 pounds, the 5.3L V8 up to 11,200 pounds, and the 3.0 Duramax diesel pulls up to 13,200 pounds.
An HD Rear Vision Camera comes standard on the LT trim and improves visibility when hitching and backing up at low speeds. A high-resolution image is displayed on the infotainment screen, providing a clear view of your trailer or any obstacles. Included along with the HD Rear Vision Camera is Hitch Guidance, which lays guide lines over the image making it easy to line up when attaching your trailer. This feature also allows you to see the same reverse view up while driving, briefly, to check the connection and your trailer.
If you have ever navigated a parking lot or have been forced to flip a U-turn while towing, you know it can be intimidating. Better yet, if you have ever stopped by a truck stop and attempted to back between two big rigs without a camera system, then you know the worth of the LT’s HD Rear Vision Camera. That’s why the included features in the LT trim make it “just right” for getting the job done.
The LT also comes standard with Chevy’s tough-as-nails Durabed, capable of withstanding whatever you throw at it. Made from high-strength steel, the Durabed lives up to its name. Plus, with a GVWR of 7,000 pounds, the LT holds up. The Durabed has a few not-so-hidden gems that make it stand out as well. An assortment of tie-downs at varying levels make it super easy to secure cargo, while a built-in corner step provides easier access to said cargo.
The Extras That Count
Moving up to the LT trim introduces plenty of cab luxuries, making it more than just a work truck. Imagine relaxing in a power adjustable seat with lumbar support and a heating element. Even better, warm your hands on a heated steering wheel on those cold winter nights after a long, tough day. You can even connect your phone or just sit back and unwind to some music using the large, multi-touch infotainment display.
It’s here, at the hub of the truck, that you will be able to access wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, access the available Wi-Fi hotspot, and see the feed from your backup camera. Keyless access, as well as keyless and remote start, are also standard on the LT trim, adding a dash of convenience to your life. You don’t have to splurge on the top trim to get top features.
Is the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT Just Right for You?
Have you heard that old saying that less is more? The 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT is proof of that. Performance and capability meet comfort and security, all without those pricey and rather unnecessary extras.
The engine choices that bring this powerful machine to life offer exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, along with the slick and reliable automatic transmission choices. The option to choose between four-wheel drive or two-wheel drive puts the truck’s abilities in your hands, not to mention the luxuries that feel like upgrades without the upgrade pricing. All in all, the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT is just right for just about everyone.
