The Chevrolet Silverado is one of the most popular full-size pickup trucks on the market. It is famous for its powerful engines, spacious interior, and rugged capabilities.
The Silverado pickup truck is available in a variety of trim levels. The Silverado LS and LT are two of them. In terms of Silverado LS vs LT, the most common difference is that the LS is the entry-level trim, while the LT is a step up in advanced features and amenities.
The Chevvy Silverado LS is the best choice for budget-conscious buyers or those who do not require all of the extra features or accessories that are unnecessary but very appealing. The LT is a good choice for buyers who want a more luxurious and well-equipped truck.
In this article, I have discussed the major differences between Silverado LS and LT and mentioned which is better for you.
The Silverado LS and LT have 15 common differences and similarities, which are given below:
1. Silverado LS Vs LT Engine and Performance
The Silverado LS has two engine options: a 5.3L V8 and a 4.3L V6. The 4.3L engine gets 284 horsepower and 304 lb-ft of torque. The 5.3L engine is a bit more powerful and gets around 354 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
In contrast, the Silverado LT offers a 6.2L V8 as an optional extra engine along with the same engines, a 4.3L and a 5.3L engine. The 6.2L V8 engine gets around 460 lb-ft of torque and 420 horsepower, which makes the LT superior to the LS trim.
The 6.2L V8 engine is only available on the LT Trail Boss and LT Z71 models. Generally, a base model Silverado LS can tow up to 7,700 pounds, while the Silverado LT can tow up to 9,500 pounds.
The Silverado LT with the 6.2L V8 engine can tow up to 13,300 pounds. The latest Silverado LS and LT trim levels are available with 3.0L Duramax diesel engines. A 10-speed transmission is paired with the new 3.0L Duramax engines.
In terms of engine and performance, a summary table between the Silverado LS and LT is given below:
| Subject | Silverado LS Trim | Silverado LT Trim |
| Engine | 4.3L V6, 3.0L Duramax Diesel engines, and 5.3L V8 | 3.0L Duramax Diesel, 5.3L V8, 4.3L V6, and 6.2L V8 engine (6.2L available in some specific models) |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic Transmission |
| Max Horsepower | 355 hp | 420 hp |
| Max Torque | 383 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 9,500 pounds | 13,00 pounds |
2. Interior and Features
The interiors of the LS and LT trims are almost identical. However, the Silverado LT offers more features and a luxurious look as an updated model.
The Silverado LS is the base trim level and comes with standard features like:
- Vinyl flooring
- Cloth seats
- 2-inch driver information center
- 12-volt power outlet
- 3 years of remote access
- Six-speaker audio system
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 7 airbags
- 8-way power passenger seat
- 8-inch infotainment screen
The Silverado LS is a good choice for buyers looking for a basic and normal interior style.
In contrast, the Silverado LT is the mid-level trim and comes with standard features like:
- 10-way power driver seat
- Carpeted flooring
- Eight-speaker audio system
- Power windows and locks
- Sunroof
- 2-inch Chevrolet infotainment system
- 12-inch driver information center
- 12-volt outlet
- 3 years of remote access
- 7 airbags
- 10-way power front passenger seat
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Trailering package
In my opinion, the Silverado LT offers a more comfortable and stylish interior than the LS.
3. Exterior and Styling
The Silverado LS and LT share some differences in exterior and styling. The LS comes with halogen headlights, while the LT has standard LED headlights. The LS has manual mirrors, while the LT has power mirrors.
Typically, both models come standard with 17-inch wheels, but the Silverado LT can upgrade to 18-inch aluminum wheels. The Silverado LT also has a more aggressive front fascia than the LS because of the large air intake.
The Silverado LS has a more basic and utilitarian style. In contrast, the Silverado LT has a more upscale and stylish appearance.
Here is a table that differentiates the exterior and styling of the Silverado LS and LT trim levels:
| Subject | Silverado LS Trim | Silverado LT Trim |
| Headlights | Halogen | LED |
| Mirror | Manual | Power |
| Wheels | 17-inch | 17-inch or 18-inch |
| Front Fascia | More Basic | More Aggressive |
| Appearance Packages | Not Available | Available |
| Illumination Package | Not Available | Available |
| LT Signature Package | Not Available | Available |
| Luxury Package | Not Available | Available |
4. Towing Capacity
Generally, the towing capacity of the Silverado LS and LT models is almost identical. This is because they both use similar engines. However, the towing capacity also depends on the transmission and rear axle ratio.
Towing capacity increases with the rear axle ratio. The towing capacity of both trim levels with a 4.3L V6 engine is 7,900 pounds, and with a 5.3L engine, it is around 11,300 pounds. But when the Silverado LT comes standard with a 6.2L engine, its towing capacity is 13,300 pounds.
5. Silverado LS Vs LT Tires
The Silverado LS comes with 17-inch steel wheels and all-season tires, and the Silverado LT comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels and all-season tires. Both tires are rated for P-metric load ranges.
The P-metric load range means the tires are designed for light-duty trucks and SUVs. The main difference between the Silverado LS and LT tires is their construction.
The LS tires have a thinner sidewall and a less robust construction than the LT tires. In terms of tire capability, the Silverado LT tires are more capable of towing and off-road capability. However, these Silverado wheels are interchangeable.
Here is a table for the key differences between the Silverado LS and LT:
| Feature | Silverado LS | Silverado LT |
| Wheels | 17-inch Steel | 18-inch Aluminum |
| Tires | All-season | All-season |
| Load Range | P | P |
| Construction | Thinner Sidewall, Less Durable | Thicker Sidewall, More Durable |
| Off-Road Capability | Less Capable | More Capable |
6. Silverado LS Vs LT Throttle Body
The throttle body is an important component for regulating air in the engine, and it also affects the engine’s performance. The Silverado LS typically comes with a modest throttle body.
The LS’s throttle body is designed for routine tasks, such as city commutes and basic towing needs. In contrast, the Silverado LT has robust engine options, providing a larger, more powerful throttle body.
The LT’s throttle body is optimized for delivering more power and torque than the LS trim level.
7. Silverado LS Vs LT Safety Features
Safety is a crucial term when comparing two vehicles or trim levels. The 2023 Chevrolet Silverado received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Silverado LS and LT models both received the same safety rating.
The following table shows the standard and available safety options for the Silverado LS and LT trim levels:
| Feature | Silverado LS | Silverado LT |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard | Standard |
| 7 Airbags | Standard | Standard |
| 3 Years of Remote Access | Standard | Standard |
| Chevy Safety Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Forward Collison Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Front Pedestrian Braking | Standard | Standard |
| OnStar and Chevrolet Connected services | Standard | Standard |
| Teen Driver | Standard | Standard |
| 6-Airbags | Available | Not Available |
| HD Surround Vision | Not Available | Available |
| Rear Pedestrian Alert | Not Available | Available |
8. Silverado LS Vs LT Pricing
The Silverado LT is slightly more expensive than the LS due to additional features and technology. The base price of a Silverado LS trim level is around $51,295 while the starting price of a Silverado LT trim is around $55,695.
However, the Silverado LS and LT price depends on several factors, such as vehicle make and model year, drive type, box style, etc.
9. Comfort and Convenience
The Silverado LS has a few basic comfort and convenience features, such as a cloth interior, a six-speaker audio system, and a rearview camera.
In contrast, the LT comfort and convenience package adds many additional features, such as:
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Remote start
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Trailering package, etc.
Overall, the best package for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you want the additional features, then the LT package is worth the extra cost. But if you are on a budget, the LS comfort and convenience package is still a good value and includes many of the same features.
10. Fuel Economy
The fuel economy of the Silverado LS and LT is almost the same. With a 3.0L Duramax diesel engine, the estimated fuel economy of both models is around 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Note that the specific fuel economy estimates may vary depending on the particular model year, model, and options.
11. Silverado LS Vs LT Sound
The Chevrolet Silverado LT and LS both come standard with a 5.3L engine. Despite this, the Silverado LT has a slightly different exhaust system.
The LS has a single exhaust system with a muffler, while the LT has a dual exhaust system. It gives the LT a slightly louder and more deep sound, especially when it is under heavy acceleration.
Other elements, such as the kind of muffler, the size of the exhaust pipes, and the truck’s tuning, also impact how it sounds.
If you want a louder and more aggressive sound, you must upgrade your vehicle accordingly.
12. Silverado LS Vs LT Warranty
For both the Silverado LT and LS trim levels, General Motors offers a 60,000-mile or 5-year powertrain warranty for the Silverado LT and LS trim levels.
It also offers 100,000 miles or a 5-year powertrain warranty (whichever comes first) for qualified fleet purchases.
The company also offers a 36,000-mile or 3-year basic warranty. It covers the cost of repairs to any defects in materials or workmanship.
13. Silverado LS Vs LT Resale Value
According to CarEdge, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LS is expected to retain 61% of its value after 5 years. In contrast, the 2023 Silverado LT is expected to retain 63% of its value.
It means that if you purchased a Silverado LS for $50,000 today, it could be worth about $30,500 in 5 years. And if you purchased a Silverado LT for $55,000 today, it could be worth about $34,150 in 5 years. The Silverado LT has a slightly higher resale value because of its additional features.
14. Silverado LS Vs LT Off-Road Capabilities
The Silverado LS is the base trim level and does not come with any off-road features. It has a ground clearance of around 7.5-8.2 inches, the approach angle is around 24.7 degrees, and the departure angle is around 24.2 degrees.
As a standard model, the LS typically comes as a 2WD system. However it also has a 4-wheel drive option, but it is still insufficient for off-roading.
In contrast, the Silverado LT comes with the Z71 off-road package as standard. The Silverado LT gets off-road capability with this package.
15. Silverado LS Vs LT Maintenance and Reliability
The Silverado LS and LT have similar maintenance requirements. Both models need oil changes every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. They require tire rotations every 6,000 miles. In terms of reliability, both trim levels are reliable.
According to RepairPal, the Silverado LS and LT 2014–2018 model years are more reliable. So, if you are looking for the most reliable Silverado model, you should consider a model year from 2014 to 2018.
You may also like to read about the difference between Silverado 1500 and 2500.
What Does LS Stand for Chevy Truck?
LS stands for Luxury Sport in Chevrolet Trucks. It is the base trim level for many Chevy trucks, including the Silverado, Sierra, and Colorado. The trim level features a V6 engine, cloth seats, and a basic audio system. It is the most affordable trim level but still offers good value for money.
The following Chevrolet vehicles come with an LS trim level:
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Chevrolet Trax
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Chevrolet Spark
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Chevrolet Suburban
What Does LT Stand for Chevy Truck?
LT stands for ‘Luxury Touring’ in Chevy trucks. It is the second-highest trim level, above the LS and below the LTZ trim. The LT trim typically provides a balance between standard features and luxury additions.
The trim level features cloth seats, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker audio system. This trim level also offers optional power windows and locks, a sunroof, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The following Chevrolet vehicles come with an LT trim level:
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Chevrolet Trax
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Chevrolet Spark
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Chevrolet Blazer
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Chevrolet Traverse
Is Chevy LT or LS Better?
I believe the LT is better overall than the LS because it offers more features and amenities for a slightly higher price. However, the LS is a good choice for buyers looking for the most affordable option.
Now, you can choose one based on your individual needs and budget.
Final Thoughts
The Chevrolet Silverado LS and LT are both great trucks. The LT offers a few more features and amenities than the LS but comes at a slightly higher price.
Ultimately, the LT is a better choice if you are looking for a truck with more features. On the other hand, the LS is a good choice if you are on a tight budget and looking for an affordable option.
