Although the Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 share the same basic architecture, drivetrain options, and off-road capabilities, their exterior styling diverges sharply. This is doubly so when comparing a pre-refresh model to a refreshed model, with GM ushering in a significant exterior styling update in conjunction with the 2022 model year (technically the 2022.5, or 2022 interim model year). Now, we’re taking a closer look at this pre-refresh Silverado Trail Boss LT and refreshed GMC Sierra AT4 in the following GM Authority Photo Comparison.
Note that the features highlighted in this comparison are specific to the two vehicles pictured, and do not necessarily reflect all Silverado and Sierra trim levels or model years.
From the front, the styling differences are immediate. The Sierra AT4, finished in Thunderstorm Gray (paint code GNO), sports GMC’s refreshed upright grille, which is flanked by squared-off C-shaped LED headlights and integrated fog lamps located low in the bumper. Red tow hooks punctuate the aggressive look. Meanwhile, the pre-refresh Silverado Trail Boss LT is finished in Shadow Gray Metallic (paint code GJI) and features a simpler, more streamlined fascia layout. The grille blends into a pair of narrow headlight housings, while the fog lamps are larger. The Silverado Trail Boss LT is also equipped with red tow hooks, while both trucks have also had their factory antennas replaced with short, stubby, aftermarket antennas.
Moving to the sides, both trucks feature black-painted side mirrors equipped with vertical perimeter lighting elements. However, the Sierra’s mirrors also incorporate a lower-mounted camera module for enhanced visibility via GM’s Multi-View Camera System. The window surrounds, or Day Light Openings (DLOs), are black on both trucks, but the finish differs, with the Sierra showing a glossy finish, and the Silverado showing a flat, rubberized surround finish.
Wheel and tire setups further distinguish these trucks. The Silverado Trail Boss LT is running a set of 18-inch wheels wrapped in aftermarket Nitto Ridge Grappler tires, while the Sierra AT4 sticks with the factory 20-inch wheels and Bridgestone Dueler A/T rubber. Despite both trucks benefiting from a factory-installed two-inch lift, the Sierra sits slightly higher overall, a result of the larger wheel and tire combination. To note, the Silverado Trail Boss LT is also offered with a set of 20-inch wheels as an available option.
The running boards on these trucks also differ. The Sierra AT4 features high-clearance steps that tuck closer to the body for better off-road maneuverability. By contrast, the Silverado Trail Boss LT uses wider six-inch rectangular steps, which hang a bit lower but should be easier to use for ingress and egress.
At the rear, both trucks offer similar functionality with trick tailgates, namely the MultiPro tailgate on the Sierra and the Multi-Flex tailgate on the Silverado, both of which are functionally identical. However, the tail light designs diverge sharply. The Sierra’s vertically stacked, C-shaped tail lights present a more modern, sculpted look, while the Silverado’s tail lights are boxier.
These days, these two trucks also present different interior layouts, with the Silverado Trail Boss LT incorporating GM’s “Premium” dashboard layout, and the Sierra AT4 benefitting from the “Luxury” design. Check out our previous coverage for more information.
So, which truck wins your approval in this head-to-head visual comparison? Cast your vote below in the poll, and tell us in the comments!
Comments
I bought four new Silverado pickup trucks, followed by three new GMC pickup trucks. Every one of them were good trucks! In my opinion, the GMC has a little nicer styling, and a higher quality on interior products. I know that they both roll down the same assembly line, but each product has many of their own parts which make a different end result. I hope that the “GENERAL” keeps on building both trucks with gasoline engines.
That’s why their “Professional Grade” runs about 3% higher…..
Ever since Dodge came out with the Semi Truck style grill in the 2000’s I have despised that look. Now most trucks including GMC have gone down that road. That’s why I have stayed with Chevy. I’m on my fourth Chevy truck. I upgraded my 1993 to a 2023. The 93 still runs perfect. All original except for the transmits basic ware items.
Personally, I think Chevy is the best looking truck on the road.