The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 stands as the fifth model year of the fifth generation of Big Red’s light-duty pickup truck. Debuting a few updates and changes over the refreshed 2022 model, the 2023 Sierra 1500 is now available to be ordered with a new set of removable off-road assist steps.
GM Authority has learned that the removable off-road assist steps, LPO (RPO code RVP) are available to be ordered for the first time. As an LPO option, these assist steps are installed on-site at the dealership. As of the time of this writing, this feature is only offered on the Sierra AT4X trim level for an extra $2,490, and it includes (NAA) Rocker protection guards for that price.
The removable assist steps attach to the rocker protection guards, and are designed to be removed when off-roading to increase ground clearance. The stainless steel steps include a textured surface to prevent slipping along with a powdered coat finish, and each step can be installed on any mounting point on the rocker protection guards. The steps can easily be installed or removed with the help of bolts and U-nuts. The package adds 22 pounds to the weight of the vehicle.
The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 is most notable for the introduction of two features, a new trim level and a new powerplant. Starting with the trim, the 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X AEV Edition makes its first-ever debut. To keep it simple, the 2023 Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Edition is the most off-road-capable factory Sierra 1500 ever, developed with input from American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) like on the Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison and first-ever 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 ZR2 Bison. Meanwhile, the “standard” 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X received new equipment from the AEV Edition.
The second noteworthy update for the 2023 Sierra 1500 is the introduction of the 3.0L I6 LZ0 turbodiesel Duramax. Considered the “second iteration” of GM’s Duramax 3.0L straight-six, this diesel replaces the outgoing 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel Duramax and churns out 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque.
The other powertrain options carry over from the preceding model, and include the turbocharged 2.7L I4 L3B gasoline engine, rated at 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, the atmospheric 5.3L V8 L84 gasoline engine, rated at 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and the atmospheric 6.2L V8 L87 gasoline engine, rated at 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
In regard to transmission options, the L3B is matched to the GM eight-speed automatic, while the L84, the L87 and the LZ0 are offered with the GM 10-speed automatic.
As for structure, the 2023 Sierra rides on the GM T1 platform, which it shares with its corporate platform-mate, the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500. Production takes place at the GM Fort Wayne plant in Indiana and the GM Silao plant in Mexico.
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Comments
Aren’t all assist steps removable? Why not write about what makes them so removable compared to non-removeable for the extra $2490? Article was about assist steps, not the powertrains available.
You are right, they failed to mention this: These removable steps can be attached to the Rocker protection guards (in lieu of the other steps they offer) and give you the option to be removed (step only) and keep the rocker guards.
The steps are available for any 1500 crew cab model (not only sierra AT4X)
I am trying to purchase the rear removable assist steps for my 2024 Canyon AT4X. I have the front already mounted to the rock guard.