Model tested: 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AWD Crew Cab
Engine: 6.2-liter Ecotec3 V8
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Horsepower: 420
Torque: 460 lb.-ft.
EPA ratings: 14/city, 18/highway, 16/combined
Base price: $73,300
As tested: $76,790
Overview: Updated for the 2022 model year, the GMC Sierra comes in any version you may want — be it a work truck, off-roader, family vehicle or luxury ride. The Sierra comes in rear- and four-wheel-drive versions, in configurations that include regular, extended and crew-cab designs, plus a choice of powerplants ranging from a 2.7-liter turbo-4 rated at 310 horses, a 355-horse 5.3-liter V8 and a big 6.2-liter V8 or a turbodiesel inline-6 that delivers up to 30 mpg on the highway. Automatic transmissions are standard on all.
Besides boasting a fresh interior and exterior styling and more entry-level model power, the Sierra 1500’s top-of-the-line features the new AT4X — our test driver, which this review focuses on — and the Denali Ultimate trim levels.
Walkaround: The Sierra AT4X styling is masculine and aggressive, with a tall stance thanks to the 11.1-inch raised ride height, squared-off wheel arches, boomerang-shaped wraparound headlights and GMC’s signature wide grille in black, along with gloss black wheels. Off-roaders will like the AT4X — which is spendy but includes special 2-inch Multimatic dampers, 2-speed transfer case and a locking rear differential for serious four-wheeling. It also comes with skid plates, bright red tow hooks and a 120-volt power outlet in the bed.
Interior: Here’s where the Sierra AT4X shines, featuring a massive 13.4-inch touchscreen, big color displays for the instrument cluster and a head-up display system. The AT4X comes well equipped with power everything, redundant steering wheel controls and an infotainment system featuring Google Maps, Sirius XM, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, GM’s OnStar system, plus a premium Bose 12-speaker audio system. It also boasts a Wi-Fi hotspot and an in-vehicle trailering app.
Color-coordinated stitching on the comfortable, 16-way, power heated and cooled leather seats and other trim is a nice touch. Most GMC trucks are crew cabs and offer terrific front- and rear-seat leg room, plus more than 40 inches of headroom. There are numerous bins, cubby holes and other storage options as well.
Behind the wheel: The Sierra AT4X has a refined, comfortable, confident and capable feel for an off-road pickup. The big 6.2-liter V8 is quick — even towing a trailer — and it can handle as much as 13,000 pounds. GM’s slick-shifting, much improved 10-speed automatic transmission gets the job done.
Though all Sierras are large, they ride well, with good steering feedback and strong brakes that help these big boys make their way down winding roads, even towing a big trailer, with confidence. They’re also reasonably quiet on the open road. We would have loved the opportunity to road trip this rig.
Bottom line: The GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X is one strong, easy-handling, capable off-road and comfortable on-road pickup. It’s loaded with tech and is just a great — albeit spendy — choice among full-size trucks.
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