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2020 GMC Sierra SLT towing a boat

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Just Got a Major Upgrade

As we get new generations of the GMC Sierra 1500, the full-size truck undoubtedly becomes more luxurious. As we move into the 2022 Sierra, the model is set to receive even more premium tech features. According to GMC, the 2022 Sierra is getting Cadillac’s Super Cruise driver assistance tech. Additionally, you’ll even be able to …

As we get new generations of the GMC Sierra 1500, the full-size truck undoubtedly becomes more luxurious. As we move into the 2022 Sierra, the model is set to receive even more premium tech features. According to GMC, the 2022 Sierra is getting Cadillac’s Super Cruise driver assistance tech. Additionally, you’ll even be able to tow a trailer while driving hands free.

The 2022 GMC Sierra gets Super Cruise from Cadillac

An image of the dashboard of a 2022 GMC Sierra featuring the Super Cruise driver assist system.
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 | GMC

For years, Super Cruise has only been available in eligible Cadillac models. Last year, the American carmaker decided to give the 2021 Escalade a taste of Super Cruise. Given the foundational similarities between the Escalade and other GM SUVs and trucks, its spread is inevitable. Thankfully, according to GMC, it seems the next popular model to receive the system will be the GMC Sierra 1500.

In short, Super Cruise will work identically in the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 as it does in the Escalade. A combination of a LiDAR map, real-time cameras, sensors, and GPS will allow the Sierra to aid the driver in steering the truck. It is worth pointing out that this is not a fully autonomous system and requires the driver to be fully aware of what’s going on. So much so that GMC will install a driver attention system that measures the driver’s gaze. If the driver looks away from the road too long, the system triggers, and lights flash, alerting the driver to pay attention.

Oddly enough, this new system for the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 does claim it allows for trailering during hands-free driving. However, there are no details on whether the load’s weight affects the system in any way. Additionally, there is no mention of whether this ability is legal in all 50 states.

When will Super Cruise be available?

A photo of the GMC Sierra Denali outdoors.
GMC Sierra Denali | GMC

If you’ve just bought a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, there’s a bit of bad news. That’s because the inclusion of Super Cruise is set to arrive with the refreshed 2022 Sierra 1500. According to GMC, the refreshed full-size truck is set to arrive “late in the 2022 model year.” If we had to guess, this likely means you won’t be able to get the system immediately when the 2022 model arrives. Additionally, there is no mention of whether or not the system will be offered as standard. However, if the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is anything to go by, chances are you’ll have to pay extra for it.

However, once you get it, it remains to see just how long Super Cruise will operate for free in your 2022 GMC Sierra 1500. This is because Cadillac plans to charge a $25 monthly fee to owners of Super Cruise-equipped models once the free trial runs out. This means one of your truck’s brand-new features could carry a long-term cost. It remains to be said that GMC has not confirmed this. This assumption stems from Cadillac’s implementation of the system.

What else is new in the 2022 Sierra?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsBchIGUjKI

The updated tech isn’t the only brand new feature we’re expecting in the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500. From the first image posted above, you’ll notice that Super Cruise works together with a fully-digital instrument cluster. While this is likely required for Super Cruise, chances are you’ll be able to option it individually as well.

Additionally, spy images covered by The Fast Lane Truck uncovered that the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 likely features a massive new central display. While we’ve seen this before in the RAM 1500, it is a massive upgrade for the GMC. Regardless, given what we know of this new truck, there is plenty to be excited about.