The Differences Between the Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss

We consistently get this question regarding Silverado trims: what are the differences between the two Trail Boss trims of the Silverado? Every so often, we welcome an off-road enthusiast looking for a used Chevy Silverado for sale and who understands what makes each of these trims unique. However, most drivers can’t quite identify the differences without some guidance. We get it; when you glance at the two, they appear quite similar. They’re obviously beefier, more off-road-ready variants of the classic full-size truck that everybody knows and loves. However, Chevrolet doesn’t create any arbitrary trims. They recognized an opportunity to meet the needs of two distinct types of off-roaders, so they needed to create two distinct Trail Boss models.

Today, we’re looking at the 2021 LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss. The Silverado is made to last, and since these trims were designed for serious off-roading, they boast heavy-duty frames and impressive longevity. If you are shopping for a pre-owned Trail Boss, you know the previous owner already pushed it to its limit and emerged victorious. So, what exactly makes the LT Trails Boss and Custom Trail Boss different? We’ll go over that, but first, we’ll cover what they have in common.

How They Are Similar

Right away, you will notice that each of these trims boasts a two-inch factory lift. This lift gives them both improved departure and approach angles, so they’re ready to go from flat surfaces to crawling over hilly terrain without causing damage to the undercarriage. It will also help you roll over small boulders and fallen tree stumps with little issue and even drive through shallow bodies of water.

Each trim is also equipped with the popular Z71 off-road package. With this package, you get the Autotrac 2-speed transfer case, which boosts torque and crawl speed, offering better overall handling in off-road environments. You also get off-road jounce bumpers, best equipped to absorb noise and vibration on uneven surfaces.

A metal underbody shield will protect critical components of your truck, while all-terrain tires will give you the traction you need over sand, rocks, dirt, and more. Heavy-duty air filters can keep the air clean in your cabin even when you’re kicking up a lot of dust. Plus, an automatic locking rear differential can send maximum torque to your rear wheels when it senses slippage. For many off-roaders, the inclusion of the Z71 package is enough to pique their interest in a Trail Boss trim. Then, it comes down to figuring out what makes the two different.

How the Two Trims Differ

Seating Choices

A major difference you’ll notice if you hop in the cab of either of these trims are the seats. The Custom Trail Boss will come standard with a 40/20/40 split front bench, and that’s the only option for this trim. However, the LT Trail Boss has the standard 40/20/40 split front bench with heated driver and front passenger seats. This second seating option of the LT Trail Boss is what makes it appealing to those who don’t need to cram three passengers into the front seat. If you prefer spacious captain’s chairs, with room all to yourself and a luxury look and feel, you can only get those in the LT Trail Boss.

Design Details

Aesthetically, there are a lot of options to explore in both trims, too. The Custom Trail Boss, ordered as-is, gets you a black grille for a rugged appearance, paired with 18-inch high-gloss black-painted aluminum wheels. Plus, you’ll get red recovery hooks, which are eye-catching and convenient if you’re ever in a jam. The LT Trail Boss looks a bit different. It skips the black grille in favor of simple black mesh grille inserts. Plus, it gets the classic bowtie emblem in black. You’ll notice other black accenting, like on the mirror caps and door handles.

There are some differences in the special editions available for each trim, too. Both trims are available in the Midnight Edition and all of the cool blacked-out details that come with that. However, only the LT Trail Boss gets high-intensity LED headlamps with dark bezels. These add a definitive wow factor and boost visibility in low-light settings.

The LT Trail Boss might get those LED headlamps, but only the Custom Trail Boss is available in the Realtree Special Edition. This edition pairs rugged design details with its off-road capabilities for a truck that is unmistakably made for the wilderness. Realtree Special Edition trucks get striking exterior graphics resembling tree bark on the rear of the truck. They also get a spray-on bedliner with the Realtree logo to prevent your bed from being damaged over time. The truck’s rear is finished off with a dual-outlet exhaust with black rectangular tips. Even the interior has fun Realtree design details, including graphics on the door handles and other camo elements.

Engine Options

Both the LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss come with a variety of engine options that will be sure to give you the precise amount of power you need out of your Silverado, whether it’s for work or at home. Both models come with the option of being equipped with the 5.3L V8, giving them an impressive 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. For those looking to take advantage of the power of diesel, you can equip both trucks with the 3.0L Turbo-Diesel engine that will generate 305 hp and a hefty 495 lb-ft of torque. The LT Trail Boss also offers one other option in the form of a 6.2L V8 that will give you 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it with this extensive engine lineup.

We’ll Help You Find the Perfect Pre-Owned Trail Boss Trim

We’re ready to show adventurous drivers all the two Trail Boss trims offer. The Silverado has always been known for having several personalities, and when Chevy created the Trail Boss trims, the Silverado became even more versatile. We know that when you need the power to tackle off-road environments, you demand a lot from your truck. You need special features that those looking for an everyday pickup just don’t require. The Trail Boss trims have them, with their factory suspension lift and Z71 standard off-road package. Still, you’ll want to work with a knowledgeable dealer to understand which is best for your needs.

We welcome more pre-owned Silverado 1500 models onto our lot daily and would love to help you select yours. With competitive pricing and a friendly staff, we offer the perfect place to explore this terrific pickup truck. So whether you want a Trail Boss, a luxury trim, an everyday work truck, or something else, a member of our team can help you find what you need. We love pairing drivers with trucks that help them explore more roads and tackle tough jobs. We know the Silverado 1500 is that truck. We know the unique features of every Silverado 1500 trim and have a huge selection of pre-owned models, including the Trail Boss trims, so visit us today and let us help you find yours.