At a Glance:
- MSRP: From $33,300
- Towing capacity: 8,800 to 9,400 lbs
- Horsepower: 277 to 420 hp
- Bed length: 69.6” to 98.4″
- MPG: Up to 23 city / 30 highway
- Engine: 2.7 L 4-cylinder , 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel , 5.3 L V8 , 6.2 L V8
The 2022 model year of the GMC Sierra 1500 LD (Light Duty) receives a makeover that includes substantial interior improvements, an attractive new grille with reconfigured headlights, and improved engine performance. These collective upgrades, along with the Sierra’s good multi-generational reputation, provide a persuasive argument for making your next truck a 1500.
Interior
With the exception of the base level Pro trim, the Sierra interior makes huge gains in 2022 with a repositioned, extra large (13.4 inch) infotainment touchscreen and configurable 12.3 inch digital gauge cluster. The new layout is easier to use, nicer to look at, and impressive in its capabilities.
At the Denali trim level, the vehicle gets a more upscale refresh with real wood trim, aluminum and chrome accents, as well as a wrapped instrument panel and full grain leather seating. If luxury isn’t your bag, the sportier AT4 and AT4X trims with blacked out leather interior and double needle stitching are still nice, if a little tougher looking.
Seating, storage and head/leg room are ample in all trims and top of the class in the Elevation trim. Speaking of seating, options include heated, ventilated, and massaging bench and bucket seats, depending on model.
Exterior
The Sierra has always had one of the better looking grilles, but the 2022 makes some subtle modifications with reconfigured LED headlights and bumper design that make it even more handsome. The Denali and AT4X trims add some additional grille flair with color and chrome mods.
Features
Within the Sierra 1500’s 8 trims, there are nearly 40 available and standard features, as well as 32 different package options that offer everything from ventilated front seats and heads-up display to skid plates and remote start. The base model is predictably stripped down, but you can easily, if expensively, pick from a Chinese menu of items that will make your ride more enjoyable, safe, and capable. We note significant features below, but visit your GMC dealer for a full run down of Sierra’s offerings.
We’re happy to see that in 2022, the GMC Pro Safety package is standard on all trims and includes lane assist departure warning; forward collision alert; follow distance indicator; front pedestrian braking; automatic emergency braking; IntelliBeam headlights. Combined, this suite of safety features can effectively reduce accidents and injuries and give drivers peace of mind and protection even in challenging driving conditions.
As noted, the 1500 also includes a 13.4-inch center infotainment system in all but Pro trims. This touchscreen anchors the dash with support for Google app store, maps, and voice assistant, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Available on Denali versions, the Super Cruise driver assistance package includes hands-free driving capabilities on 200,000 miles mapped out for the program and 14 camera angle views for the ultimate in trailering and driving. When hauling, the system works by adjusting specific calibrations designed to account for additional drag and increased braking distance. When you aren’t hauling a trailer, its capabilities are even more sophisticated, allowing automatic lane changing. It’s big technology that could lure in shoppers looking at the upper-level trims in the Sierra family.
Last but not least, we also suggest inquiring about the 1500’s MultiPro Tailgate. This innovative kit combines six functions to help improve loading, unloading, and accessing the cargo bed. Also available with MultiPro is the Kicker Audio System. This Bluetooth, 100-watt, exterior audio/speaker system has enough oomph to provide music for you, and the rest of the parking lot, at your next tailgate party.
Power & Handling
In 2022, the Sierra 1500 pares down engine offerings from 5 to 4. Gone is the 4.3-liter V6, but the 5.3-liter V8, 6.2-liter V8, 3.0-liter 6-cylinder diesel, and turbocharged 2.7-liter 4-cylinder remain. Notably, the latter engine has been retooled to allow more torque (420 pound-feet) than last year’s model, which topped out at 383 pound-feet.
And while the Sierra 1500 is classified as a light-duty truck, don’t despair if you’re in need of heavy-duty towing capabilities. Our suggestion is to opt for the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder Turbomax diesel. In this configuration, you’ll get best in class diesel horsepower (277) and best in class 4WD diesel towing capacity (13,000 lbs).
The Sierra has good handling, but consider the AT4 if you’ll be spending much time off-road. Its beefier shock absorbers and additional clearance are welcome enhancements, but it also handles and corners better in rugged terrain. The Denali performs even better thanks to its available adaptive suspension.
Final Thought
The GMC Sierra 1500 LD (Light Duty) is a great truck that got better by delivering a much-needed interior update to all but base model trims. With a wide array of feature and package options, it’s easy to find a version of the 1500 that will suit all of your work and play needs.
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