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Our week with the GMC Sierra 1500 has been extremely informative. We’ve been climbing through the truck like spider monkeys to learn every single detail we can. While it’s one incredible truck, there are three things that the 2022 GMC Sierra could improve. 

Three things that the 2022 GMC Sierra could do better 

2022 GMC Sierra cons
2022 GMC Sierra | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

We’re delighted to be spending time with the 2022 GMC Sierra. It got a host of exceptional upgrades for 2022, including an upgraded interior with more comfort and higher-quality materials. 

Plus, we got to see the new Sierra AT4X trim take its off-roading capabilities to new heights, and the ultra-luxurious GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate package made its debut. 

Also, new tech such as the SuperCruise hands-free diving system is wild, but there are still things that the Sierra could improve. 

1. The GMC Sierra could have more intuitive tech 

The 2022 GMC Sierra has a 13.4-inch infotainment system that’s run by Google. That’s fun, and we like Google Assistant. You can ask it for the animal of the day, for directions, and to tell jokes. However, it’s not the most intuitive program. 

Trying to do things such as access truck settings, map out routes, and adjusting the layout isn’t exactly easy to figure out. We were it with, “How do you do this?” a few times and even had to Google a few things. 

We Googled how to use the MultiFlex tailgate and how to access the in-bed Kicker audio system. But we later found instructional manuals that could have saved us time. 

Also, the massage chairs are controlled by buttons on the side of the chairs. You can’t see the controls, but a menu for them appears on the infotainment screen. They would be so much easier to use if the menu responded to touch. 

The infotainment system is a touch screen, yet it doesn’t control the functions of the massage chairs. It’s mind-boggling. 

2. The 2022 Sierra could be better on gas 

A dark colored 2022 GMC Sierra driving alongside a lake and mountains.
2022 GMC Sierra Denali | Creative Commons

With the 6.2-liter V8 engine, the 2022 GMC Sierra gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and up to 20 mpg in the city when paired with all-wheel drive. We averaged about 18 mpg, but on some curvy mountain roads, we got about 10.6 mpg. 

It could do a little better on fuel with today’s prices. However, the engine cranks out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, and it’s tons of fun. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds. The transmission shifts smoothly, and the handling is responsive. 

We had the most fun in the Sport Mode, with faster response times and a stiffer suspension. The Off-Road mode was fun, too, as the Sierra glided over impacts without any fuss. It was composed over dips that made the Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 rattle. 

3. The Sierra could have better headlights 

2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate in the rain
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

We love the way the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 looks. The larger LED lights frame the grille perfectly. However, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), the headlights are inadequate. 

They earned a Poor rating. While driving through pitch black tunnels carved into mountainsides, the automatic lights had a delay. They wouldn’t turn on for about 15 seconds, leaving us in the dark. But they did provide plenty of visibility to the sides on straightaways. 

We’ve found excellent things to share about the GMC Sierra 1500 and a few minor drawbacks. Stay tuned for our full review of all the specs.

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