The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra offer a wide array of trim levels, each catering to different needs and preferences. Among these, the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss are popular choices, especially for those who want a blend of style, capability, and off-road prowess. Understanding the nuances between these two trims is crucial for making an informed purchase decision. This article will delve into the key differences between the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss, providing a comprehensive overview to help you determine which is the best fit for your lifestyle.
| Feature | RST Z71 | Trail Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Sporty Styling & On-Road Comfort | Off-Road Capability & Rugged Look |
| Suspension | Z71 Off-Road Suspension | 2-inch Factory Lift, Z71 Suspension |
| Appearance | Body-color accents, Chrome details | Black accents, Aggressive Styling |
| Wheels & Tires | Up to 22-inch wheels, All-Season Tires | 18-inch Black Wheels, Mud-Terrain Tires |
| Skid Plates | Standard Z71 Skid Plates | Standard Z71 Skid Plates |
| Rear Axle | Standard Rear Axle | Standard Rear Axle |
| Exterior Details | Body-color bumpers, Grille, Mirror Caps | Black Bumpers, Grille, Mirror Caps |
| Interior Features | Typically Leather or Cloth, Sporty Accents | Cloth Seats, Rugged Interior Accents |
| Available Engines | Wide range, including V8s | Wide range, including V8s |
| Price Point | Typically Lower than Trail Boss | Typically Higher than RST Z71 |
| Off-Road Tech | Hill Descent Control | Hill Descent Control |
| Exhaust | Dual Exhaust (optional) | Dual Exhaust (optional) |
| Bed Protection | Spray-on Bedliner (optional) | Spray-on Bedliner (optional) |
| Transfer Case | Two-Speed Transfer Case (4x4 models) | Two-Speed Transfer Case (4x4 models) |
| Approach Angle | Standard Approach Angle | Increased Approach Angle due to lift |
| Departure Angle | Standard Departure Angle | Increased Departure Angle due to lift |
| Ground Clearance | Standard Ground Clearance | Increased Ground Clearance due to lift |
| Z71 Package | Included as part of the RST trim | Included as part of the Trail Boss trim |
| Electronic Locking Rear Differential | Optional | Optional |
| Available Cab Configurations | Varies depending on model year. | Varies depending on model year. |
| Standard Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD | 4WD Standard |
Detailed Explanations
Primary Focus
The RST Z71 is designed for those who want a stylish truck with some off-road capability but primarily prioritize on-road comfort and a sporty aesthetic. It's a well-rounded package that balances daily driving with occasional off-road adventures. The Trail Boss, on the other hand, is built for more serious off-roading and boasts a more rugged and aggressive appearance. Its focus is squarely on capability and providing a confident experience when venturing off the beaten path.
Suspension
Both the RST Z71 and Trail Boss come equipped with the Z71 off-road suspension package, which includes Rancho monotube shocks for improved ride quality and control both on and off-road. However, the Trail Boss goes a step further by adding a 2-inch factory lift, providing additional ground clearance and enhancing its off-road capabilities. This lift significantly impacts its approach and departure angles, making it better suited for tackling challenging terrain.
Appearance
The RST Z71 typically features body-color accents, chrome details, and a more refined aesthetic. This includes body-color bumpers, a body-color grille surround, and chrome accents on the mirrors and door handles. The Trail Boss, in contrast, embraces a bolder and more rugged look with blacked-out accents, including a black grille, black bumpers, and black badging. This gives it a more aggressive and off-road-ready appearance.
Wheels & Tires
The RST Z71 often comes with larger wheel options, sometimes up to 22 inches, paired with all-season tires that prioritize on-road performance and comfort. These tires offer a quieter ride and better handling on paved surfaces. The Trail Boss typically features smaller, more rugged 18-inch black wheels wrapped in mud-terrain tires. These tires provide superior grip and traction in off-road conditions like mud, dirt, and rocks, but may be noisier and less comfortable on the road.
Skid Plates
Both the RST Z71 and Trail Boss come standard with skid plates to protect vital components like the oil pan and transfer case from damage when driving off-road. These skid plates provide an extra layer of defense against rocks, debris, and other obstacles.
Rear Axle
Both trucks usually come with a standard rear axle. While the gear ratio might vary depending on the engine and configuration, the fundamental rear axle component remains the same between the two trims unless specifically upgraded.
Exterior Details
As mentioned earlier, the RST Z71 favors body-color treatments and chrome accents for a more upscale look. The Trail Boss leans heavily into blacked-out elements, creating a tougher and more utilitarian appearance. The differences in exterior details contribute significantly to the overall impression of each trim.
Interior Features
The RST Z71 often offers a more refined interior with options like leather seats and sporty accents, reflecting its focus on comfort and style. The Trail Boss typically has a more basic interior with cloth seats and rugged interior accents, emphasizing functionality and durability. While both trims offer similar technology features, the overall ambiance differs significantly.
Available Engines
Both the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss are available with a wide range of engines, including powerful V8 options, depending on the model year and configuration. This allows buyers to choose the engine that best suits their needs and preferences. The availability of specific engines may vary, so it's important to check the current model year's specifications.
Price Point
The RST Z71 typically has a lower starting price than the Trail Boss, reflecting its focus on style and on-road performance. The added off-road features and rugged styling of the Trail Boss contribute to its higher price point.
Off-Road Tech
Both the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss include Hill Descent Control, which helps maintain a controlled speed when descending steep slopes off-road. This feature enhances safety and control in challenging terrain.
Exhaust
Both trims offer an optional dual exhaust system, which enhances the truck's appearance and can provide a slightly more aggressive exhaust note. This is more of a cosmetic upgrade than a performance-enhancing one.
Bed Protection
A spray-on bedliner is an optional feature for both the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss. This durable coating protects the truck bed from scratches, dents, and other damage, making it ideal for hauling cargo.
Transfer Case
4x4 models of both the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss come standard with a two-speed transfer case. This allows the driver to switch between two-wheel drive for on-road efficiency and four-wheel drive high or low range for off-road traction and capability.
Approach, Departure, and Breakover Angles
The approach angle, departure angle, and breakover angle are crucial metrics for off-road performance. The Trail Boss, thanks to its 2-inch lift, boasts significantly improved approach and departure angles compared to the RST Z71. This allows it to navigate steeper inclines and declines without scraping the front or rear bumpers. The breakover angle, which measures the truck's ability to clear obstacles between the axles, is also improved.
Ground Clearance
The Trail Boss has higher ground clearance due to the 2-inch factory lift compared to the RST Z71. This extra clearance is essential for avoiding obstacles and navigating rough terrain.
Z71 Package
Both the RST Z71 and Trail Boss include the Z71 Off-Road Package, but it's implemented differently. On the RST, it's part of the overall trim, while on the Trail Boss, it's enhanced with the lift and other off-road-specific features.
Electronic Locking Rear Differential
An electronic locking rear differential is available as an optional feature on both the RST Z71 and Trail Boss. This system locks both rear wheels together, providing maximum traction in slippery or challenging off-road conditions. It's a valuable addition for serious off-road enthusiasts.
Available Cab Configurations
The availability of different cab configurations (Regular Cab, Double Cab, Crew Cab) can vary depending on the model year and specific options. Both the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss typically offer a range of cab configurations to suit different needs.
Standard Drivetrain
While the RST Z71 can be configured with either 2WD or 4WD, the Trail Boss typically comes standard with 4WD, emphasizing its off-road focus. This is a key difference for buyers who prioritize off-road capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between RST Z71 and Trail Boss? The main difference is that the Trail Boss is geared towards off-road performance with a factory lift and more aggressive styling, while the RST Z71 focuses on a sporty appearance and comfortable on-road driving with some off-road capabilities.
Does the Trail Boss have better off-road capabilities than the RST Z71? Yes, the Trail Boss has better off-road capabilities due to its 2-inch factory lift, more aggressive tires, and blacked-out styling elements that are less prone to scratching and damage off-road.
Is the Trail Boss more expensive than the RST Z71? Generally, the Trail Boss is more expensive than the RST Z71 due to its additional off-road features and rugged styling.
Can I get the RST Z71 with a lift kit? Yes, you can install an aftermarket lift kit on the RST Z71, but it does not come with a factory lift like the Trail Boss.
Do both trims come with four-wheel drive? The RST Z71 can be configured with either 2WD or 4WD, while the Trail Boss typically comes standard with 4WD.
Which trim is better for daily driving? The RST Z71 is generally better for daily driving due to its more comfortable ride, quieter tires, and more refined interior.
Do both trims have the same engine options? Yes, both trims typically offer a similar range of engine options, allowing buyers to choose the engine that best suits their needs.
Are the interiors different between the two trims? Yes, the RST Z71 often features leather seats and sporty accents, while the Trail Boss typically has cloth seats and rugged interior accents.
Conclusion
Choosing between the RST Z71 and the Trail Boss depends largely on your priorities. If you value sporty styling, comfortable on-road driving, and occasional off-road adventures, the RST Z71 is a great choice. However, if you prioritize serious off-road capability, a rugged appearance, and don't mind sacrificing some on-road comfort, the Trail Boss is the better option. Consider your driving habits and intended use to make the right decision.