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2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Trim Guide

A grey 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV is shown after looking at trucks for sale in Mankato.

If you’re the type of driver who values customization, the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 just might be the full-size pickup for you. GMC has set itself apart in the hotly contested segment by allowing customers to create a bespoke truck that fits their own unique driving and lifestyle needs. Need an economical option for your fleet of work trucks? The single-cab Sierra 1500 might be just the ticket. Looking for well-rounded trucks for sale in Mankato that maximize passenger space? The four-door crew cab is certainly worth a closer look.

When it comes time to put in a little work––or just pack for an upcoming road trip––the Sierra 1500’s short, standard, and long beds provide all the cargo space necessary to accommodate your equipment. Not only are they the longest and widest beds in their class, but they also offer more cargo volume and are packed with clever features like LED lighting, GMC’s MultiPro tailgate, and an industry-first carbon fiber composite bed. Four engines, ranging from a turbocharged four-cylinder all the way up to a hulking 6.2-liter V8, give drivers the ability to strike the perfect balance between performance and efficiency. Still, these features are really just the beginning of the pickup’s customization potential.

With eight distinct trims to choose from, the 2024 Sierra 1500 is easily one of the most adaptable models in the segment. In fact, the Sierra 1500 offers more trim options than other full-size options like the Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan, and Ram 1500. While this level of modification is certainly a major advantage for the Sierra 1500, it can also be something of a double-edged sword. It’s great to have choices, but with so many trims, selecting the right Sierra 1500 can also be a little overwhelming. Luckily, the Snell Buick GMC team is here to help. We’ve compiled a thorough guide to the 2024 Sierra 1500’s trims, simplifying the research process and getting you one step closer to driving off the lot in the pickup of your dreams.

Sierra 1500 Pro

We’ll kick things off with GMC’s most budget-friendly option in the Sierra 1500 Pro. Starting at just over $46,000, the Pro packs a lot of value for an entry-level model. An ideal addition to any fleet, the Pro is primed for work truck duty with a standard 2.7-liter inline-four TurboMax engine that can put out 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough muscle to give the Pro a maximum towing capacity of 9,400 lbs, and while that should be more than enough for all but the most demanding applications, those looking for a little more power can upgrade to the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 with 355 horses under the hood.

The Pro trim gets the Sierra 1500 off to a strong start with the best bed volume in its class. Ranging from 62.9 cu.ft. for the short box all the way up to a spacious 89.1 cu.ft. for the long box, the Sierra 1500 is impossible to beat when it comes to pure cargo capacity. The Pro also comes standard with a long list of advanced safety features like a Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and IntelliBeam automatic high beam headlights, not to mention LED lights on both the front and rear.

A black 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE is shown parked on grass.

Sierra 1500 SLE

Moving one level up the trim ladder, we have the Sierra 1500 SLE. This option has a number of advantages over the basic Pro trim, especially when it comes to towing capacity. Drivers who opt for the available 3.0-liter Duramax turbo diesel I-6 will get access to 13,200 lbs of raw towing power thanks to the engine’s 495 lb-ft of torque, making the SLE the obvious choice for everything from heavy-duty projects around Mankato to navigating the snowy parking lot of Mount Kato Ski Area.

That said, it's the SLE’s interior that packs the most compelling upgrades when compared to the Pro trim. The truck’s 13.4-inch touchscreen infotainment display is almost double the size of the seven-inch version found on the base trim, with GMC also throwing in a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster for good measure. The SLE adds a few creature comforts in the form of a ten-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, which is perfect for those cold Minnesota mornings. These little features go a long way towards improving the overall driving experience, allowing drivers to get comfortable on longer rides without some of the aches and pains that can come with a more spartan cabin.

Sierra 1500 Elevation

The Sierra 1500 Elevation is an eye-catching pickup, to say the least. A monochromatic exterior with body-colored bumpers, gloss-black mesh grille inserts, and 20-inch gloss-black aluminum alloy wheels give the truck a decidedly sporty look, especially when you factor in the LED fog lamps. The Elevation trim also features a fully loaded Trailering Package that sees the Sierra 1500 gain a receiver hitch, an automatic locking rear differential, four and seven-pin connectors, and GMC’s Hitch Guidance system. This convenient feature takes all the guesswork out of making that pesky trailer connection, leveraging the truck’s rear-facing camera to provide a handy guideline that’ll have you towing that boat, trailer, or camper around Mankato in no time flat. The Elevation also comes standard with the GMC MultiPro Tailgate, an advanced six-function design that can be customized to accommodate almost any cargo you can imagine.

Sierra 1500 SLT

For those pickup purists who will settle for nothing less than a hefty V8, the Sierra 1500 SLT has you covered. The trim’s 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 churns out 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, which is good enough to make it a solid towing option with a maximum capacity of 11,200 lbs. An in-vehicle trailering app takes the stress out of towing with a long list of features like customizable trailer profiles, trailer tire pressure and temperature monitoring, a pre-departure checklist, and a trailer light test function. An upgraded 10-speed automatic marks a noticeable improvement over the standard eight-speed setup, with transmission and engine oil coolers keeping everything running smoothly no matter how long your work day might be.

When it’s time to clock out, the SLT will help you relax with 12-way power-adjustable front seats and a memory setting that’ll give you the perfect fit every time. The perforated leather front seats also gain a ventilation feature that, along with the SLT’s dual-zone automatic climate control, will keep everything nice and cool on longer rides. The trim also sees some notable upgrades to the truck’s mirrors, including an auto-dimming driver's side mirror and rearview mirror.

Sierra 1500 AT4

The AT4 represents the first of the Sierra 1500’s two off-road focused trims. While those seeking a little low-end torque will appreciate the fact that the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel has been included as the standard engine, it’s the trim’s off-road components that really set it apart from the crowd. When you spot the Sierra 1500 AT4 in a parking lot, the most obvious upgrade is probably going to be the two-inch factory suspension lift. This little revision is vital when it comes to clearing challenging off-road terrain, giving drivers the ability to tackle the trail with confidence. Rancho monotube shocks help to smooth out all those bumps and dips that come with off-road driving, while the two-speed AutoTrac transfer case and an automatic locking rear differential allow drivers to tailor their torque in response to changing road conditions.

All-terrain tires and underbody skid plates round out the Sierra 1500 AT4’s off-road arsenal, but they’re not the only upgrades worth noting. The trim also comes with an edgy Jet Black interior sporting Kalahari accents, an available CarbonPro composite bed, and a massive 15-inch heads-up display (HUD) that’ll give you the ability to track important vehicle data without taking your eyes off the road.

Sierra 1500 Denali

The Denali is where the Sierra 1500 starts to let its luxury credentials shine. The Denali keeps the AT4’s all-terrain tires, two-speed Autotrac transfer case, optional 15-inch HUD, and CarbonPro composite bed but adds a number of sumptuous features that’ll have you riding in style and comfort. A power sunroof, premium Bose sound system with a Richbass subwoofer, and enhanced safety features are all notable trimmings, but it's the open-pore wood, patterned aluminum trim, and supple leather upholstery that’ll really turn some heads. The Denali is also treated to its own one-of-a-kind grille and is thoroughly chromed out with flashy chrome wheels, chrome vertical recovery hooks, and six-inch chrome rectangular full-length assist steps.

While many drivers tend to think of luxury in terms of cutting-edge tech features and premium cabin materials, ride quality also plays an important role in creating a lavish ride. To this end, GMC has equipped the Sierra 1500 Denali with a continuous dampening adaptive ride control feature that constantly monitors changing road conditions and adjusts the suspension to ensure a smooth, enjoyable driving experience.

Sierra 1500 AT4X

Introduced in 2022, the AT4X is the Sierra 1500’s most off-road-ready trim. Like the AT4, the AT4X comes standard with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel and a two-inch factory lift, but it certainly doesn’t stop there. The premium off-road trim is equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler Territory mud-terrain tires, Multimatic DSSV dampers, and both front and rear electronic-locking differentials. The latter makes the Sierra 1500 AT4X a standout in its class as the only full-size pickup to offer such a combination. A fruitful collaboration with the off-road experts American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) sees the AT4X AEV Edition package add hot-stamped boron steel skid plates and stamped steel front and rear bumpers that can accommodate a winch for those essential off-road recovery projects.

While the AT4X was clearly designed with off-road glory in mind, that doesn’t mean GMC has skimped on the truck’s luxury features. The heated and ventilated front seats are 16-way power adjustable and have a massage feature that’s sure to provide a little relief after a long day of off-road fun. The trim is treated to perforated leather upholstery done up in a custom Obsidian Rush colorway, plus Vanta Ash wood grain accents. Those looking to pump their favorite tunes while out on the trail will appreciate the 12-speaker Bose sound system with Centerpoint surround sound.

Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate

The Denali Ultimate might technically qualify as a full-size pickup, but it has all the makings of a premium luxury vehicle. The 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 is standard for this range-topping version of the Sierra 1500, giving drivers 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque to play with, plus 13,000 lbs of towing capacity. The Denali Ultimate’s 22-inch, seven-spoke machined aluminum wheels and all-season tires provide an effortless combination of style and handling, while the signature Vader chrome grille will have you feeling the force every time you step behind the wheel.

The Denali Ultimate’s interior can be accessed via the standard MultiPro power steps and is unsurprisingly opulent with Alpine Umber perforated leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, and 16-way power-adjustable heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. However, it’s the addition of GMC’s Super Cruise hands-free driving technology that really caught our attention. Compatible with over 750,000 miles of roads across the United States and Canada, this advanced hands-free driving system is the industry’s best, with a long list of features that can turn a nerve-wracking drive down Highway 14 into a relaxing journey. Finally, there’s the Denali Ultimate’s Kicker MultiPro tailgate audio system. This weatherproof sound system is built directly into the tailgate, allowing drivers to get the party started at a moment’s notice.

A close-up shows brown leather headrests in a 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate.

Eight Amazing Trim Options

With eight increasingly well-appointed trims to choose from, it’s no wonder the GMC Sierra 1500 is a perennial leader in the full-size segment. GMC’s flagship pickup has something to offer for every driver. From the versatile wallet-friendly Pro and the value-packed Elevation to off-road trims like the AT4 and AT4X to luxury options like the Denali and Denali Ultimate, the Sierra 1500’s trim ladder is jam-packed with enticing options to choose from. GMC knows that every driver has their own wants and needs when it comes time to pick a new vehicle, which is why it has gone out of its way to provide such an extensive list of options. While we’ve done our best to detail the differences between each trim, there’s really only one way to narrow down all the options, so stop by our Mankato showroom today to take a test drive, chat with a member of our sales team, or discuss financing with our staff.

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Envision logo on a red 2026 Buick Envision.

Your Buyer's Guide for the 2026 Buick Envision

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A white 2026 GMC Acadia AT4 off-roading

2026 GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Traverse: Which Offers a More Premium Experience?

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And, we have to say that the Acadia offers more premium seating options in its lineup. Base Trim Seating Features First, we’ll look at the front seats. So these are the seats you’re guaranteed to get with the base level trim — no need to spring for higher trims if you don’t want to. In the Acadia, both models feature a standard 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, which is a nice touch. But what about your co-pilot? Your main squeeze? Your DJ and navigator? What do they get? Well, in the GMC Acadia on the Elevation trim, the front passenger seat has an available 6-way power-adjustable seat. In the Traverse, however, they do not. Your co-pilot is stuck with a 4-way manual seat in the Traverse. So if you want the base trim and happen to have a finicky front seat rider, you might want to spring for the 6-way power seat in the Acadia. Premium Seating Features on Upper Trims Now let’s move up to the seats you’ll get on higher trims. This is where things get interesting, because the Acadia’s Denali Ultimate trim has massaging front seats. Imagine getting a massage while you’re stuck in traffic on the US-14, or waiting at the school pickup while your kids are taking their time. You can even adjust the massage intensity to your liking. The Chevy Traverse does not offer massaging seats. So if you know you can’t live without this feature, you’ll be looking at the GMC Acadia. If you do put in a lot of hours behind the wheel, then you know how hard that can be on your body. With massaging seats, you don’t need to arrive at your destination with sore muscles and stiff limbs. Seating Materials and Upholstery Differences Finally, let’s look at the seating material in these two models. It makes a difference in aesthetics, comfort, and value. Once again, the Acadia outshines the Traverse here with its full-leather seats, found in the Denali Ultimate. Full leather means that the entire seat surface is made of leather. So, how does this differ from the Traverse’s offering? The most upscale seating material available for the Traverse is leather-appointed. That means you’ll find leather on the seating surfaces, but other materials on the sides and backs of the seats. If you want a truly elevated look and feel, and a feature many shoppers associate with a more premium feel, full leather seats are the way to go. As a bonus, the Denali Ultimate even boasts a suede-like headliner. This is another feature not available for any Traverse model. Premium Audio Features in the Acadia If you need tunes, podcasts and audiobooks to entertain you during your New Ulm commutes, you might be happiest in the Acadia. We say this because it gives you a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system, right out of the gate with the starting Elevation trim. The Traverse, on the other hand, kicks things off with a simple 6-speaker sound system. That’s what comes standard on the base-level LT trim and the off-road Z71 trim. If you want a 12-speaker Bose sound system, you’ll need to step up to either the luxury High Country or performance-forward RS trim. Should you opt for the top-end Denali Ultimate Acadia, you’ll unlock a 16-speaker sound system. That’s something that simply does not exist across the Traverse lineup. So if you’re a serious audiophile, the GMC Acadia may be the better choice for drivers who prioritize premium audio. Improved Visibility With HD Surround Vision Want extra help monitoring your surroundings in your SUV? Whether backseat tantrums are distracting you or you’re simply navigating a new environment, everyone can use a little extra help keeping an eye on things when they’re behind the wheel. While both the GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse offer an HD surround-view camera, only the Acadia includes HD Surround Vision as standard on all trims. As for the Traverse, that feature will cost you extra if you get the Z71 or LT trim. It's standard on the High Country and RS trims. For many drivers today, access to camera angles around their vehicle is a non-negotiable. So if you want the peace of mind that you’ll have this feature, no matter what trim or configuration you buy, go for the Acadia. Standard Safety Features in the Acadia If you live on a New Ulm street where children are often playing, then you probably need your head on a swivel to back out of your driveway. A rear pedestrian alert is a useful feature in situations like these. It can detect people on foot behind your vehicle, and alert you to their presence. This is another feature that the Acadia gives you, no matter which model you choose, while the Traverse only makes it standard on certain models. If you want to make sure you have it in the Traverse, you’ll have to opt for the High Country or RS trim. We see rear pedestrian alert as a major value add for anyone who places a premium on safety. And you’ll have it, guaranteed, on any Acadia. Premium Comfort and Capability in the 2026 GMC Acadia Ready to ride home in the comfortable Acadia? Come check out new models at Snell Buick GMC! New Ulm drivers will receive tailored recommendations and support. Our GMC specialists will learn about your days and guide you towards the Acadia that will make them better. When it comes to the Acadia versus Traverse, the choice is clear. The Acadia offers perks the Traverse simply doesn't, like massaging and full-leather seats. It boasts a 16-speaker sound system that music lovers will appreciate. It also provides some features standard across models that the Traverse only delivers on certain models, like an HD surround-view camera and a rear pedestrian alert. When you know you want more comfort, more convenience, and more luxury, without having to double-check that your model offers it, you need the Acadia. We're rolling in additional inventory every day! We’ll combine our regional and brand insights to pair you with your ideal SUV. And we can even help with financing! Stop by today to test drive the Acadia!