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Buyers interested in the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 will likely want the Elevation trim. To no one’s surprise, it’s the most popular version of the full-size truck. When pickup shopping, buyers often struggle with which model to choose. There are many excellent models with different cab sizes, bed sizes, engines, trims, and more. Here’s what makes the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation trim so popular:

A 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 MuiltiPro tailgate is perfect for football games.
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 MultiPro tailgate | GMC

According to Edmunds, the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation is the most popular trim level. Most buyers choose the third-cheapest version of the pickup. Fortunately, the bottom-tier trims aren’t too widespread regarding their starting prices. The most affordable version of the GMC Sierra 1500, the Pro trim, starts at $42,895. Opting for the most popular model costs $52,695, a roughly $10K difference. What’s so good about the 2022 GMC Sierra Elevation?

Increased towing capacity

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

A vitally important detail for any pickup is its capability. Engine power, towing capacity, payload capacity, and more are essential for full-size truck buyers. As a result, many are only interested in the version of the model with the most towing or payload capacity. Edmunds says the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation gets increased towing capacity over other trim levels.

The Sierra 1500 can tow from 8,800 to 9,100 pounds with the weaker engines. Opting for a V8 or turbodiesel will raise those numbers quite a bit. Fortunately, nearly every engine is optional for any of the trim levels.

That means buyers can choose the Elevation trim with a standard turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder, 5.3-liter V8, or turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. However, selecting the Elevation trim, even with the weakest engine, adds a few hundred extra pounds to its towing capacity.

The Sierra 1500 Elevation has excellent optional packages

2022 GMC Sierra 1500 off-roading
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 | GMC

One thing buyers love to do with their vehicle is customize it. The easiest way is by purchasing optional packages straight from the factory. For the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500, many options are available. However, access to even more unlocks with the Elevation trim level. Another reason it’s the most popular choice is because of the many optional features and packages. GMC provides many options to buyers, expanded with the Elevation trim.

For example, there’s an Elevation Premium package for $3,650. It includes a Jet Black leather interior, an up-level rear seat with storage, wireless charging, the Sierra Safety Plus package, and a spray-on bed liner. Finally, another optional package, the Preferred package, is included with this one. It adds a universal home remote, a rear sliding power window, Hitch guidance with Hitch View for towing, an in-vehicle trailering app, a Trailer brake controller, adaptive cruise control, and rear wheelhouse liners.

Next, there is also an Elevation Black package. For $1,175, buyers get black GMC emblems, 6″ black rectangular assist steps, and all-weather floor liners. Although the features aren’t particularly plentiful, the package is cheap enough that the value provided is worth the price.

Buying the Sierra 1500 Elevation gets you the most features

The final thing that makes the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation so popular is the many features. If you’re looking at lists of what each trim level adds, the Elevation might not seem plentiful. Exclusively, it only gets 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, a single-speed transfer case, and cloth upholstery. However, this trim level also gets everything that comes with the Sierra 1500 SLE. As a result, it’s a lot more equipment-packed for just a (roughly) $2,000 price increase.

For example, vital features with the SLE trim include heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a 13.4-inch infotainment screen, the MultiPro configurable tailgate, remote start, and much more. These are just some of the highlights, but the SLE and Elevation are very well-equipped with a long list of technology, features, and amenities.

  • LED bed lighting
  • Trailer hitch receiver
  • Rearview camera with trailer hitch guidelines
  • Auto-locking rear differential
  • Cruise control
  • Keyless entry/ignition
  • Carpeted flooring
  • Power-adjustable driver’s seat
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Additional USB ports
  • Cabin and bed 120-volt power outlets
  • Satellite Radio

In conclusion, there are many reasons the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation is the most popular trim. Some include the many features, optional packages, and increased towing capacity. However, there are even more reasons customers enjoy this trim level so much. With so many ways to customize the full-size truck with cabin sizes, bed sizes, and engine options, selecting the perfect GMC Sierra 1500 is challenging. Do you agree with most buyers that the Elevation trim is the best version of the pickup?

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