Home Comparisons Trim Comparisons 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Choosing the Right Trim

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Choosing the Right Trim

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup continues to improve, with better towing numbers than last year, more standard safety features, and a revised interior on the LT and higher trims.

As with its rivals from Ford and Ram, the Silverado 1500 offers a wide variety of cabs, bed lengths, engine options, and available equipment. However, unlike the Ford F-150, Chevrolet is not offering a hybrid or full electric option, at least for now.

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 WT (starting at $31,500)

The most basic Silverado is also a favorite of those who need their truck to work as hard as they do. Although not fancy, the standard WT (Work Truck) comes nicely equipped, offering the choice of a Regular Cab long bed, Double Cab standard bed, or Crew Cab with either standard or short bed.

The standard engine is a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder good for an impressive 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Max towing with this engine is 9,500 pounds. An 8-speed automatic is standard, as is auto start/stop, which you can deactivate via a button on the dash.

The WT offers a larger 5.3-liter V8 engine, bringing a 10-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive (4WD) is available on all configurations.

New this year is many standard driver assists. They include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning, follow distance indicator, and automatic high-beam headlights. Rear cross-traffic braking, a blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking sensors are available options.

Other safety systems include Rear Seat Reminder prompting the driver to check the rear seat for pets or kids before leaving the truck, and Teen Driver setting limits on certain features to help improve your teen’s driving habits. New this year is Buckle to Drive, a system that prevents the vehicle from being shifted out of Park until the driver fastens their seat belt.

Being a work truck, the WT isn’t big on high-tech features. Still, cabin amenities include a 40/20/40 vinyl split-bench seat with a center armrest storage compartment, rubberized vinyl floor coverings, a tilt steering wheel, and manual air conditioning. Also standard are power windows with a one-touch driver up/down feature, power door locks, remote keyless entry, push-button start, and an HD rear vision camera.

The WT’s audio system includes a 7-inch touch-screen system with wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Bluetooth streaming, and two USB ports. Regular Cab models have two speakers, while the other cabs come standard with six. Buyers can opt for SiriusXM satellite radio, GM’s OnStar, and Chevrolet Connected Services.

The WT rides on 17-inch tires on steel wheels, includes a locking tailgate and semi-gloss front and rear bumpers. The bed contains 12 tie-downs rated at 500 pounds per corner. Other exterior features include a capless fuel filler and a rear bumper corner step. Oddly, heated side-mirrors come standard on the Regular Cab but are optional on the Double Cab and Crew Cab trucks.

Popular options for the WT include a cloth bench seat, chrome bumpers, an EZ Lift or Multi-flex tailgate, cruise control, a rear defroster, a spray-in bedliner, deep-tinted side glass, trailer mirrors, and a trailering package. Buyers can upgrade their truck with an auto-locking rear differential (requires the 5.3-liter V8 engine), trailer brake control, and skid plates.

Packages worth noting include the Z71 Off-Road package that adds an off-road suspension, hill descent control, skid plates, and a heavy-duty air filter.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 WT costs $33,195. On a 60-month loan at 3% and zero down payment, the monthly bill comes to $596. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 WT models for sale

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 WT includes:

  • Automatic emergency braking – Detects people or vehicles directly in the Silverado’s path and can activate the brakes to help avoid a collision.
  • Vinyl seat – Rugged for tough jobs, the Silverado’s vinyl upholstery cleans up easy yet still provides a comfortable spot for driver and passenger.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – Allows smartphone integration of apps, music, navigation, and messaging with the vehicle’s infotainment system.
  • Turbocharged engine – The standard turbocharged 2.7-liter engine delivers impressive power and good fuel economy.

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom (starting at $38,500)

The Custom builds on the WT, adding more standard features and packages. It only comes in Double Cab and Crew Cab configurations with the 2.7-liter engine.

Moving to the Custom brings body-colored front and rear bumpers, heated outside power mirrors, 20-inch wheels, cloth seating, cruise control, a compass, and an upgraded suspension package.

Also standard is a remote vehicle start, a trailering package, the EZ Lift tailgate, a rear window defroster, LED cargo bed light, SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and OnStar. There are two 120-volt outlets, one in the bed and one in the cabin, front and rear-seat USB charging ports, a 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, and tinted glass.

Optional on the Custom is the Trail Boss package. This off-road upgrade is offered only in Crew Cab 4WD configuration. It includes red-painted recovery hooks, a 2-inch factory lift, the Z71 off-road package, Autotrac 2-speed transfer case, skid plates, and the Trailering Package. Also included are a heavy-duty air filter, auto-locking rear differential, and hill descent control.

The 5.3-liter V8 and 3.0 Duramax diesel are optional upgrades, but only on the Custom Trail Boss.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado Custom costs $40,195. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to $722. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom models for sale

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT (starting at $42,600)

The LT differs significantly from the WT and Custom, with an all-new interior, revised exterior, more standard equipment, and the choice of the 5.3-liter V8 or 3.0-liter Duramax diesel. The 6.2-liter V8 is also offered, but only on the Trail Boss version.

The LT consists of two sub-models: 1LT and 2FL. Both feature a revised dash consisting of a 12.3-inch configurable digital instrument cluster and a 13.4-inch touch screen Infotainment 3 Premium system. The LT also includes Google built-in featuring Google Assist, Google Maps, and Google Play. SiriusXM 360L is also standard.

Standard enhancements for the LT include dual-zone automatic air conditioning, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and LED headlights. Also standard is a 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, heated front seats, heated tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, and a proximity key fob with push-button start.

High on the options list are leather front bucket seats with a center console, an uplevel rear seat package with under-seat storage, a power sliding rear window, and a wireless charging pad. Buyers can opt for adaptive cruise control, a bed view camera, and a choice between a power up/down tailgate or a 6-function Multi-flex tailgate.

Some notable options come bundled in packages. The Safety Package adds HD Surround Vision, trailer camera provisions, rear cross-traffic alert braking, trailering side blind-spot monitor, rear parking sensors with pedestrian detection, and perimeter lighting. 4WD models can upgrade to a 2-speed automatic transfer case with push-button control.

The Convenience Package II adds hitch guidance with Hitch View, a power-sliding rear window, trailer-brake control, and a trailering app.

The Z71 Off-Road and Protection Package is also available but requires an upgrade to the 5.3-liter V8 or Duramax diesel and 4WD.

Chevrolet offers a max trailer package, snow plow prep package, and trailer tire pressure monitor package.

The LT Trail Boss Package includes the same features as the Custom Trail Boss but offers the optional Trail Boss Premium Package. It adds the Convenience Package II, Leather Package, Safety Package, and a power tailgate.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado LT costs $44,295. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to $796. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT models for sale

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT includes:

  • 12.3-inch configurable cluster – This all-digital instrument cluster replaces analog gauges with digital replicas, plus includes numerous information screens.
  • 13.4-inch infotainment screen – This massive touch screen includes audio, infotainment, Google apps, and navigation maps.
  • Heated front seats – Help keep you warm in the winter, negating the need to superheat the cabin.
  • Available Duramax diesel – Revised for 2022, the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel can now tow up to 13,300 pounds when equipped with the max tow package.

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST (starting at $46,900)

The RST combines sport and luxury, offering a full range of engines, including the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8s and the Duramax diesel. The 2.7-liter turbocharged engine comes standard in the Double Cab, while the 5.3-liter V8 is standard on Crew Cab trims.

Building off the LT trim’s standard equipment, the RST adds LED tail lamps, body-colored bumpers, a 3.23 rear axle ratio, and LED fog lamps.

The RST offers a premium 7-speaker Bose audio system and two special edition packages: Rally and Redline.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado RST costs $48,595. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to $873. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST models for sale

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ (starting at $51,800)

The LTZ is the first of two luxury trims. It is offered only in Crew Cab configuration, with the 5.3-liter V8 standard and the 6.2-liter V8 and 3.0-liter Duramax diesel options.

Building off the standard feature set of the LT and RST, the LTZ includes as standard the 7-speaker Bose sound system, heated and ventilated front bucket seats, a wireless charging pad, a power tailgate, and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

Other upgrades include a 10-way power passenger seat with power lumbar support, driver’s seat memory, chrome bumpers and door handles, LED signature daytime running lights, 20-inch wheels, beefed-up engine and transmission oil coolers, and a high capacity suspension.

The LT’s Safety Package contents come standard, as does GM’s Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver of a possible collision. Front and rear parking sensors come standard, along with trailer brake control.

Options for the LTZ include the LTZ Convenience Package II that adds heated rear seats, a power sliding rear window, adaptive cruise control, and hitch guidance via Hitch View camera. A power sunroof is optional, as are a rear camera mirror, head-up display, and heated power-adjustable trailering mirrors.

Mentionable upgrades include Texas Edition and Z71 Off-Road Package.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ costs $53,495. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to $961. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ models for sale

2022 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ includes:

  • Heated and ventilated front seats – Keep your backside warm in winter and cool and dry in the summer.
  • Bose audio – This premium high-end audio system includes seven speakers and a powered subwoofer for excellent music reproduction.
  • Power tilt/telescoping steering wheel – Allows drivers of all sizes to find the most comfortable driving position.
  • Available adaptive cruise control – When the cruise control is engaged, this system maintains a safe distance between the Silverado and the traffic ahead, slowing down and speeding up as necessary.

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country (starting at $56,800)

The most luxurious Silverado is the High Country. Like the LTZ, it is offered only in Crew Cab configuration and 4WD, with the 5.3-liter V8 standard and the Duramax diesel and 6.2-liter V8 optional.

The High Country includes all of the LTZ standard equipment and most of its optional features. Standard highlights include the Bed View camera, heated rear seats, a spray-in bedliner, chrome assist steps, 20-inch all-terrain tires, hitch guidance with Hitch View system, and dual exhaust with polished outlets.

GM’s Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system featuring automatic lane changing and trailering capability is unique to the High Country trim level.

Optional packages include the High Country Premium Package that adds a power sunroof, 22-inch wheels, and all-season tires.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado High Country costs $58,495. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to $1,051. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country models for sale

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 (starting at $65,100)

New this year is the Silverado ZR2. Built to compete with the Ford Raptor and Ram TRX, the ZR2 takes a page from Chevy’s other off-road truck, the Colorado ZR2.

The Silverado ZR2 comes standard with a 6.2-liter V8, 10-speed automatic transmission, 2-speed automatic transfer case, and Silverado-first Multimatic 40MM spool-valve dampers. Unique springs work in conjunction with the dampers for improved suspension travel, while skid plates protect all the essential bits.

The ZR2 includes front and rear e-locker differentials, hill descent control, Terrain Mode with one-pedal rock crawling, 33-inch wheels with MT tires, and a unique high-approach steel front bumper with removable end caps. The bumper allows the ZR2 a 31.8-degree approach angle.

On the features front, the ZR2 includes most of the features of the High Country, except for the Super Cruise option. A power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power tailgate, and 18-inch gloss black wheels are optional, not standard.

With the $1,695 delivery fee, the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 costs $66,795. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to $1,200. See 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 models for sale

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 includes:

  • 6.2-liter V8 – With 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, the ZR2’s standard engine has more than enough power to muscle over the most formidable obstacle.
  • e-locker front and rear differentials – Electronic locking front and rear differentials allow maximum grip when off-roading.
  • Multimatic dampers – Employ three separate spool valves to better control damping.
  • 31.8-degree approach angle – For serious off-roading, the ZR2’s front bumper allows more clearance for an impressive front approach angle.

FAQ

  • What is the best 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

    For all-around features, options, powertrain choices, and price, the LT is the most versatile Silverado trim. However, if luxury is essential, the LTZ and High Country deserve a good look. Off-road enthusiasts will want to move toward one of the two Trail Boss models or the new ZR2.

  • How many MPGs does the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 get?

    With its standard 2.7-liter turbocharged engine and 2WD, buyers can expect fuel economy around 19 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The 3.0-liter Duramax diesel is the best on fuel and attains 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the mighty 6.2-liter V8 gets the worst fuel economy, coming in at 14 mpg city and 17 mpg highway when equipped with 4WD.

  • Which 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers the most safety?

    Given the impressive number of standard driver assists added this year, we’d say all the Silverado models are equally safe. But, if you’re looking for additional driver assists beyond the standard offering, going with the LT, LTZ or High Country gets you other features like rear cross-traffic detection and front and rear parking sensors.

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