With so many trim-level options to choose from, it can get a little complicated when deciding which one is best for you and your family. If you are shopping for a Chevy Silverado and wonder if you are better suited for the Custom or the LT, we can help you. We researched this popular pickup truck from multiple professional sources so that you will know for sure which one is right for you.
The Custom and LT trim levels have the same base components, but the LT will give more engine options and onboard features. Though the bodies are built the same, they are trimmed in a noticeably different fashion. The main differences between the Custom and the LT involve:
- engine options and performance
- exterior appearance
- 0nboard features
- sticker price
Now that we know the fundamental differences between the two trim levels of the Chevy Silverado, we'll take a closer look at both the Custom and the LT. You might also be wondering if the Silverado 1500 Custom is a good truck to own or what is considered the top-of-the-line Chevy pickup truck. For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what our research has uncovered.
How the Chevy Silverado Custom LT differ [and what they have in common]
Engine and performance
Both the Custom and the LT come standard with a 2.7L Turbo In-line 4 gasoline engine. This engine can generate 310 horsepower at 5,600 rpm with 430-foot pounds of torque at 1,500 rpm. But while this is the only engine you can get for the Custom trim, the LT gives you other options.
You can upgrade the engine to the 5.3L EcoTech3 V8. This increases the performance and power substantially, giving the LT 355 horsepower and 383-foot pounds of torque.
Additionally, the LT has a diesel engine option. A 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 is capable of 277 horsepower and 460 foot-pounds of torque.
Exterior
While the dimensions are the same for the Custom and the LT, they take on a different look from one another. The Custom trim has built on the base model WT, giving it much bigger wheels than the LT [20-inch vs. 17-inch, respectively].
The bumpers and trim for the Custom are body-colored, while the LT is built with chrome bumpers and trim.
Onboard features
The interior of these two trim levels is identical as far as the room. But the Custom only has one interior color option, jet black with cloth upholstery. The LT, however, gives you the option of leather-appointed seats or cloth that is jet black or Gideon.
Onboard the LT, you'll also find the following features that the Custom trim level doesn't have:
- Heated, steering wheel
- Leather steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic temperature control
- Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with 8-in. touchscreen display
- Heated front seats
- Ten-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support
Sticker price
With more on board, it's reasonable to expect that the 2022 Chevy Silverado LT will have a higher sticker price than its Custom counterpart. The LT begins at $38,975, while the Custom comes in a little less at a starting price of $35,520. Of course, should you add any packages, stand-alone upgrades, or opt for a different engine [LT only], it will substantially increase the sticker price of either trim level.
Is the Chevy 1500 Custom a good truck?
Built on the base trim Silverado Work Truck [WT], the Silverado Custom has proven to be a great pickup truck for those in need of a solid and dependable work truck. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the LT or higher trim levels, you'll find that the Custom does have a good number of features included that make it both safe and comfortable.
The seating is an upgrade from the WT trim, trading vinyl for soft cloth upholstery. A remote start system for this truck is a great added convenience, as is the EZ Lift assist and power lock tailgate. The hitch guidance system makes trailering easier, and the cargo bed LED lighting gives the exterior a nice added touch.
Onboard, you'll be able to enjoy a good six-speaker audio system. This pairs great with the SiriusXM satellite radio, which is free for three months, then available by subscription.
What is the Silverado custom package?
The Rally Edition package is available for both the Custom and RST trim levels, but not the LT. This package gives black accents and other modifications to the Silverado's appearance. It includes:
- black Silverado and trim nameplates
- black CHEVROLET tailgate lettering
- black rally stripes for hood and tailgate
- black assist steps
- Chevytec spray-on Bedliner
- 20" black painted aluminum wheels
- black bowties on steering wheel horn pad and front grille
- black chrome exhaust tip
Opting for this package will add $2,415 to the sticker price.
Which Silverado engine is best?
There are multiple engine options for many of the trim levels within the Silverado. Keep in mind that some of the lower tier trim levels only have one engine, without any upgrades available. That engine is the 2.7L Turbo In-line 4. It debuted in 2019 in both the Silverado and the GMC Sierra and has shown no substantial issues.
But some consumers want an engine that is time tested to see how it has performed over time. The best engine for the Silverado as far as reliability is the 4.3L V6. Even though it isn't the most powerful engine for the 1500 line, it has shown the least amount of issues and will easily exceed 200,000 miles if properly maintained.
What is the top-of-the-line Chevy truck?
With so many reliable trucks produced by Chevy, there is still bound to combine that dependability with elements of luxury. For years, that trim level has been the Silverado LTZ. But in more recent times, Chevy upped its game and introduced the High Country trim, giving consumers a top-of-the-line pickup truck that goes above and beyond.
The interior features of the High Country make it one of the most comfortable and safest rides in its class of trucks. Here are some of what you can expect when driving this top-tier trim level truck from Chevy:
- satellite radio, blue tooth compatibility, and smartphone integration
- wi-fi hotspot
- power mirrors
- cruise control
- keyless entry
- remote start
- back up camera, rear parking aid, and lane-keeping assist
- stability and traction controls
- leather upholstery and steering wheel
- sunroof
- heads up display
- steering wheel audio controls
- adaptive cruise control
- heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats
- heated steering wheel
- multi-zone air conditioning
- seat memory
- universal garage door opener
- cross-traffic alert with blind-spot monitor
In addition, this truck is outfitted with a standard 5.3L V8 engine. It can be configured as a two-wheel drive [rear] or a four-wheel drive and has a 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine is capable of 355 horsepower with 383-foot pounds of torque.
In conclusion
The Chevy Silverado has proven to be a reliable and long-lasting choice of pickup truck for years. The multiple trim levels and packages within this model truck give consumers seemingly countless options for outfitting their ride with the features that will benefit them the most. Before you head to the dealership, it's a great idea to know what you are looking for and research the standard features and options for each available trim level. Drive safe!
If you found this post on the Chevy Silverado to be informative, we believe that you'll enjoy reading the following posts on this popular model pickup truck:
Chevrolet Silverado Trim Levels Explained
Can a Chevy Silverado Be Flat Towed? Here's What Truck Owners Need to Know
Chevy Silverado Dimensions [Inc. How Long a Chevy Silverado Bed Is]