Is the Chevy RST Package Worth It?
The Chevy RST Package combines a sporty look with superior horsepower—but you might want to opt for a higher trim instead.
Written by Claire Beaney
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Sitting squarely in the middle of the Chevy Silverado lineup, the RST Package balances a powerful engine and superior towing with a sportier look, thanks to a recent, well-needed redesign. This high-performance sports truck is available all for a starting MSRP of $51,200.
Good looks, a powerful engine, and respectable performance are just some of the reasons why the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST is a popular full-size pickup truck. While it stands out in these ways, there may be features or upgrades that you prioritize more when searching for a new car.
To help you figure out which package or trim is right for you, here’s what you should know about the Chevy RST Package before you go to the dealership.
What is the Chevy RST Package?
The Chevy RST Package is a high-performance sports truck package that has been available as an option on most Chevy Silverado 1500s. RST is an abbreviation for "Rally Sport Truck," and these letters denote some of the most outstanding vehicles in the Chevy truck series.
The Chevy RST Package has been a mainstay in their lineup since 1987. The RST Package's primary advantages are its enhanced handling, the quicker response time when applying the brakes, and increased horsepower. Between 1996 and 2004, the RST Package was not available, but it returned in 2004 with the Silverado RST.
What’s included
The RST package includes a number of features that can make your daily drives more enjoyable:
- 18-inch silver wheels (aluminum)
- 3.0L Duramax Diesel engine (277 HP/360 lb.-ft. torque)
- Heated front seats
- Power driver’s seat
- LED fog lamps, headlamps, and tail lamp
- Keyless start and remote start
- Chrome side-view mirrors and bumpers
- Leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel
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What it does
To put it plainly, the Silverado 1500 RST is a great choice for drivers looking for a more extensive set of standard features at a slightly higher base price.
The Silverado RST's excellent engine is especially noteworthy. With a displacement of 6.2 liters, it produces a spirited 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The pushrod small-cylinder block's deactivation feature allows it to function as a 3.1-liter four-cylinder engine at times when that's more fuel efficient.
The Silverado RST's suspension isn't particularly innovative, but the truck handles the road with surprising finesse and has respectable lateral acceleration (0.74 g). The Chevy RST has a superior towing capacity to rivals with similar features, at 9,300 pounds.
Full-size trucks are gigantic these days, with their grilles taking up the majority of the visual space. The Silverado RST does a good job of carrying this weight on its face, making it look both powerful and sporty. It manages to achieve this thanks, in part, to its black bowtie badge framed in chrome.
The RST's one-of-a-kind styling makes it instantly recognizable on the road. Where many other pickups only aim to be the biggest on the road, the RST does a great job of cultivating a balanced, sporty aesthetic.
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How much is a 2023 RST Package?
Prices vary by trim level, but the difference between the least expensive and most expensive models is $4,300. Let's look at the various options:
- 2WD Crew Cab 147": $51,900
- 4WD Crew Cab 147": $55,200
- 4WD Crew Cab 157": $55,500
- 4WD Double Cab 147": $51,200
Is the RST Package worth it?
The RST Package is worth it if you’re looking for some additional features without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a package with extensive tech features—which the RST noticeably lacks—then opt for the Technology Package.
But if you want any of the features of the mid-grade models (including the RST), the maximum-luxury High Country trim is your best bet.
And even though the engine in the RST is nothing to scoff at, the brand-new ZR2 Bison has the best of just about everything, including a powerful engine, improved exterior details, and a lot of other mechanical upgrades.
MORE: 2022 Chevy RST vs. 2021 Chevy RST: which is better?
RST Package vs. the Technology Package
The RST doesn’t really add much in terms of tech, so it doesn’t offer much competition when compared to the Technology Package.
The Technology Package (which is only available on the LTZ and High Country models) includes:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Head-up display
- Rear camera mirror
- Bed-view camera
If you prioritize having a super modern, tech-forward ride, then adding the Technology Package might be enough for you—and the LTZ trim has a starting price of $56,000, so you won’t be paying too much more for it.
RST Package vs. the High Country
The Heritage Edition is a must-have for Chevy fans that want to live life on the luxurious side. A few steps above the RST, it’s an impressively decked-out trim offered for the Chevy Silverado. Some notable features include:
- Improved LED headlights
- Running board side assist steps
- Spray-in bedliner
- Digital driver information display
- Navigation system
- Bose premium audio system
- Wireless charging pad
The High Country's tailgate can be adjusted to a variety of positions, serving as a work surface, two-tier loading platform, load stops, or full-width step with an integrated bedside grab handle. Brilliantly simple access steps in the bumper ends are standard equipment even if you don't pay an extra $525 for the multi-gate—making for a luxe, well-rounded model overall. Just keep in mind the High Country’s starting MSRP of $61,100.
MORE: Chevy Colorado vs Silverado: What You Need To Know
RST Package vs. the ZR2 Bison
The ZR2 Bison has the most potent engine available, a 6.2-liter gasoline V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Bison, based on the already capable ZR2, was developed in collaboration with supplier American Expedition Vehicles to be the quintessential off-roader.
Other mechanical improvements include skid plates made of boron steel, steel panels to protect the rocker panels, and 18-inch AEV wheels with a gloss-black finish.
The ZR2 Bison has a lot of visual upgrades as well, starting with the details on the exterior. The Bison has a grille divider that is the same color as the body, and the standard Multi-Flex tailgate has a part on top that is matte black. There are also stickers and badges with the AEV logo inside and outside the car.
It's become the most expensive Silverado model—one of the only areas the RST bests it—with a starting MSRP of $70,100.
The bottom line
The RST Package is worth it if you want to increase the Silverado's sportiness and horsepower without breaking the bank. However, the Technology Package or High Country trim are the better buys for those with a larger budget who value technology and comfort.
And if you truly want the best Chevy Silverado on the road, the ZR2 Bison takes the throne—just be prepared to spend a pretty penny on it.
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