GMC Sierra 1500: Favorite Things

The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size truck, with the latest version introduced in 2019. Refreshed for 2022, this model is offered in three cab choices, with four engine options, rear- or four-wheel drive, and a host of package upgrades. When Julie Andrews crooned the Rodgers & Hammerstein tune, “My Favorite Things,” she certainly did not have a pickup truck in mind. Nevertheless, we carry that “favorite things” theme over to focusing on what features about the Sierra we like most.

Two New Trims

Two new trims, AT4X and Denali Unlimited, roll out this year. Both trims have a 6.2-liter V8 engine as standard. It is optional on the Denali and AT4 but included here.

The Denali Unlimited comes with a standard power sunroof, a leather-trimmed instrument panel, and full-grain leather-wrapped treatments. These cover the door panels, console lid, and front and rear seats. A high-quality microsuede headliner, 16-way power-adjustable and massaging front seats, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, rearview camera mirror, and a 15-inch-diagonal head-up display complete this trim’s offerings.

As for the AT4X, this model comes with an off-road suspension system, front and rear electronic locking differentiations, and dedicated off-road chassis and suspension calibrations. Likewise, distinctive 18-inch black wheels are set surrounded by Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac Mud-Terrain rubber. An obtainable rocker guard accessory finishes this model.

Three Cab Choices

Odd as it may seem, having multiple cab choices is important for manufacturers. The Regular Cab once was the industry’s mainstay, but sales are roughly 5 percent of the total. The lion’s share goes to Crew Cabs, although Double Cabs certainly have a place in the segment.

Why is the Regular Cab still important to some? Because it typically is the only model with an 8-foot bed. That bed size is a difference-maker for work crews who need plywood to fit inside the cab instead of hanging out.

Four Engine Choices

Toyota and Nissan manage with one engine choice, although the former now offers a hybrid variant based on its 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. Then again, both manufacturers are comparatively minor players in a segment dominated by GM (Chevrolet and GMC), Ford, and Stellantis (Ram).

On the other hand, GMC offers four engine choices, beginning with a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (310 hp; 420 lb.-ft of torque), a 5.3-liter V8 (355 hp; 383 lb.-ft. of torque), and a 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp; 460 lb.-ft. of torque). No there is no longer a gas V6 in the mix as the long-standing 4.3-liter V6 is gone. Instead, the turbo-four steps in and offers power equivalent to a V8.

Do you still want six cylinders? You can find it with the fourth engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six turbodiesel. This engine makes 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

The turbo-four works with 8-speed automatic transmission, while the others come paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

On- and Off-Road Credibility

The Sierra is a true off-road beast when equipped with four-wheel drive. The drivetrain system comprises four settings: automatic, 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO.

Keep the setting on automatic and this system mimics all-wheel drive. This means that power automatically is distributed to the front wheels when needed. For off-roading, an available two-speed transfer case supply added traction in low gear.

Super Cruise is Here

Cadillac’s Super Cruise Level 2 autonomous driving technology is now spreading to other GM brands. The Sierra sees it in top trim models, such as the Denali Ultimate. We’ll gradually see it move to other trims and models.

Super Cruise works in tandem with adaptive cruise control, managing acceleration and braking automatically. When the system is activated, it allows drivers to keep their hands on their laps as the Sierra negotiates curves or switches lanes. The system works on more than 200,000 miles of compatible roads in the United States and Canada. It is the next step in vehicle autonomy, although its availability and use are limited.

Digital Availability

Every Sierra trim except for the base Pro (formerly Work Truck) comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The base model continues with the six analog displays that have long marked this model. Otherwise, the digital display is fully customizable and easy to read.

Also available is a 13.4-inch center console display. This one is an upgrade over the 8-inch display offered on the base model. A new infotainment system rolls out as well bringing with it Google’s app store, maps, and voice assistant.

Other tech features include an available 15-inch-diagonal multi-color head-up display. The usual contingent of USB ports, 115-volt power outlets, and audio packages are also available.

Sierra Shopping

GMC presents the 2022 Sierra 1500 in seven trims: Pro, SLE, Elevation, ATX, Denali, ATX4, and Denali Ultimate. The pricing ranges from $31,200 for the Pro Regular Cab Long Box to more than $70,000 for the Denali. Add $1,695 for the destination charge. Currently, pricing information on the Denali Ultimate and AT4X is not available. However, we expect the top-trim cost to approach $80,000.

2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications

Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Statistics assembled by Tom Keegan.

See Also — Full-Size Trucking with a 2021 GMC Sierra

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