What Does SLT Mean On A Truck? [Different Truck Trims]

 If you like SUVs and pickup trucks, you might have seen the abbreviation SLT on the back near the license plate. And due to your curiosity, you have come to this page to learn more. So, what does It mean?

SLT is an acronym for special luxury trim, referring to a more luxurious trim of SUVs and pickup trucks with extra features than the base trim. It is common on GMC vehicles, but you can also find it on Chevy, Dodge, Ford, Toyota, and Nissan models.

Read on for detailed information about SLT, including its features and comparison with SLE. This is another most common trim of GMC trucks and SUVs.  

What Does SLT Mean on a Truck?

As mentioned, SLT is an abbreviation for special luxury trim. The letters are often written on the back of GMC trucks and SUVs. But you can also find them on vehicles from other manufacturers.

SLT vehicles come with improved comfort and more features than the base trim, allowing SUV and pickup lovers to get more for less. Buying an SLT vehicle is more affordable than the high-end trims. At the same time, you spend more on it than the base trim because of the additional features.

Features of SLT Trim Trucks

SLT has ad-ons that offer a better driving experience. Most of the features of this trim are available in premium cars. So, incorporating them in trucks and SUVs makes them more comfortable and satisfactory.

Features of SLT trim trucks vary depending on the model or brand. But generally, you can expect your car to come with the following standard features:

• Leather seats
• Heated front seats and steering
• Navigation system
• Remote start function
• Premium audio system
• Power sunroof
• Climate control in two zones
• Rear parking assistance
• Pedals with adjustable power

Some SLT features are specific to the truck model. For example, the 2nd-generation GMC Canyon has upgraded 18-inch polished cast aluminum wheels and heated power mirrors.

On the other hand, SLT GMC Sierra 1500 comes equipped with a ProGrade Tailoring package. This is not available on the base or SLE trims.

Trucks Available in SLT Trim

2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLT Crew Cab

As mentioned, SLTs are mostly found on GMC trucks and some SUVs. The GMC models available in this trim include the following:

• GMC Acadia
• GMC Sierra 1500
• GMC Sierra 2500HD
• GMC Sierra 3500HD
• GMC Terrain
• GMC Yukon

However, GMC is not the only auto manufacturer with this trim level. You can also find it in Chevy Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan.

SLT Vs SLE: Similarities and Differences

SLE is another most common trim when talking about luxury in pickup trucks. It is found in some GMC models and has additional features than the base level.

SLE is an acronym for special luxury features. It falls between the base level and SLT, meaning it has additional features but cannot be matched with SLT trims. They come with some of the most basic features, such as fog lamps, keyless entry and start, and automatic climate control.

So, what are the differences and similarities between SLT and SLE?

The Similarities

SLT and SLE share many features despite being different trim levels. In fact, they are sometimes not easy to distinguish if you are not familiar with truck features.

Under the hood, SLE and SLT trims come with the same engine. This is especially true when comparing GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD SLT and SLE trims. They both have a 6.6-liter V8 engine. However, some SLT trims have more powerful engines.

Another similarity is in the towing package. Both SLT and SLE GMC trucks come with similar features for towing.

SLT and SLE also share modern features only found on premium cars, including cruise control systems, power-adjustable seats, reversing cameras, heated front seats, premium audio systems, etc.

The Differences

The most visible difference between SLT and SLE trims is the price tag. As expected, SLT is more expensive because of the additional luxury features that enhance the comfort of your ride.

Also, SLE trims are generally fitted with smaller wheels than SLT trims. This is true for most GMC truck models listed in this article. SLT trims often come equipped with more stylish and bigger wheels with better rim accents.

Another difference is in the interior. This, however, does not apply to all models. Most SLE trims have a cloth interior, with a few featuring leather seats. On the other hand, SLT trims have leather as a factory standard.

You can also notice that SLT trims have a hands-free power liftgate and LED fog lamps.

Other Truck Trims: AT4 and Denali

GMC Sierra 3500HD Denali

So far, we have mentioned SLT and SLE trims. But do you know other truck trims exist? You must have noticed it if you are a truck owner.

Other truck trims include AT4 and Denali, which often appear at the back of GMC trucks. So, what do they mean?

AT4 refers to all-terrain 4WD trims designed for off-road use. These are four-wheel drive trucks with improved suspension 18-inch, machined aluminum, and off-road wheels. They have 5.3L V8 engines coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

GMC Sierra AT4 1500 Crew Cab

On the other hand, Denali refers to the most luxurious truck trim from GMC. It is the most expensive, trim packed with more premium features, and what you should go for if you are an urban driver with more on your budget.

Features of Denali trim include the following:

• Premium leather seating
• Power-sliding windows
• Enhanced driver display
• Wireless charging pad
• Premium Bose sound system
• 20-inch wheels
• Bed-view camera
• Automatic headlamp
• Side steps
• All other features of the SLT trim

FAQs

Do SLT Trim trucks have the same features?

No. SLT trim features vary depending on the truck brand and model. Some manufacturers might offer more while others less.

Which is better, SLT or SLE trim?

SLT is a more luxurious trim with more premium features than the SLE trim. However, it has a higher price tag. SLE can be a better option if your budget is tight.

What GMC trucks come with SLT?

Most GMC trucks are available in SLT trims. They include the following:

• GMC Acadia
• GMC Sierra 1500
• GMC Sierra 2500HD
• GMC Sierra 3500HD
• GMC Terrain
• GMC Yukon

What is the difference between Denali and SLT?

In simple terms, Denali is the most luxurious GMC truck trim with a high price tag. It comes with most, if not all, luxury features commonly found in premium cars. However, if you want to enjoy comfort without the Denali price tag, SLT trim is the best alternative.

How do you know if your car is SLT or SLE?

Look at the back of your truck near the license plate. You will see an SLT, SLE badge, or other truck trims.

Final Thoughts

Special Luxury Trim (SLT) is the best truck option without the high Denali price tag. It offers more comfort on the road than the base or SLE trims, but you have to pay more for it.

Most GMC trucks are available in SLT Trims. However, you can consider options from other automakers, such as Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Dodge, and Nissan. Some of their models have this trim option.