In this video from Edmunds Cars YouTube channel, we're joined by Ryan ZumMallen. He is reviewing the brand new 2022 GMC Sierra 1500. He begins his intro by telling us that he considers the previous models of the Sierra to be an "also-ran" truck, meaning, that it was not a first contender against the Ram 1500 and Ford F150. For 2022 there are many new upgrades in the newer model that will catapult the truck to the front of the line. As we would all hope with a price tag of $80,000.
The Contenders
The specific trucks Ryan will be testing are the GMC Sierra 1500 Denali with the Ultimate package as well as one with the AT4X package. Ryan explains that all models for 2022 will get a redesigned body as well as an upgraded interior. The V6 engine that came standard on the truck for previous years is now replaced with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The base model is now the Sierra Pro which will start at a reasonable $32,495 but this will be strictly a work truck. As we climb up the models we have the SLE starting at nearly $44,000, the AT4X at just around $75,000, and of course the Denali Ultimate.
The Foremost Four By Four
At $75,000 this is not a cheap truck. At the 14-minute mark, we get into the Red AT4X model to do some off-roading with Ryan. The AT4X is the step just above the AT4 model. The first and most important bit when we talk about off-roading is the tires. The AT4X comes equipped with 32-inch all-terrain tires which are an inch shorter than the Chevy Silverado ZR2 which is its main rival. You do get the same suspension as in the Chevy as well as other similar goodies such as the lockers in the front and rear and GM's one pedal off-roading technology which allows the driver to not have to ride the brake when offroading. Ryan shows us an example of this by going down a sandy hill and over rocks and ruts and not having to use the brake pedal at all. All this while getting a back massage from the leather seats.
The Ultimate
If you thought massaging leather seats was fancy for a pickup truck the Ultimate package is the stuff of dreams. The leather in the ultimate is thick full-grain brown leather. It is on the seats, armrest, and center console. The seats are both heated and ventilated and come with a massage function. The headliner is in suede and the carpets are much higher quality than you'd find in any other high-end cars. In the center of the dash, Ryan points out a massive 13.4-inch screen which Ryan says has been very well received by the Edmunds team. He also points out that there is a 15'' multicolor heads-up display on the windshield. We also get shown the Super Cruise technology which is GM's hands-free driver assistance program. Looking at these features this is not only top of the line for the pick-up truck segment but this truck is luxury epitomized on wheels. Well done GMC.