2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The GMC Sierra 2500HD keeps one of America's greatest traditions alive and well: big trucks. The sheer dimensions and weight of one of these full-size pickups will make Prius drivers cower in fear. Last year saw the 2500HD undergo a complete redesign to keep it in the running against competitors such as the Ram 2500, and the good news is that it still feels fresh. Under the hood, the 2500HD packs your choice of V8 gas or diesel engines, with the 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 producing a massive 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear or all four wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission with this Duramax power plant or a six-speeder with the V8 gas engine. With a wide number of bed and cab configurations on offer and numerous packages, the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a well-rounded truck that can stick with the best of them.

If the sheer size of the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD does not impress you, its bold fascia and beefy bodywork will. Looking at the competition, the Ram 2500 has a more controversial face, while the Chevy Silverado 2500HD is possibly the most aggressive of the bunch. Exterior features on the base Pro trim are sparse but include 17-inch steel wheels and LED daytime running lights. The SLE gets 17-inch alloy wheels and the multi-function MultiPro tailgate with EZ Lift assistance. Higher up in the range, the SLT gains 18-inch alloy wheels and LED cargo-bed lighting, while the Denali rolls on 20-inch polished alloys. The AT4 features high gloss black mirror caps, and the Denali gets a polished exhaust tip, assist steps, and smoked amber LED roof marker lamps, amongst others.

The Sierra 2500HD is a big vehicle in any configuration. The smallest of the bunch is the Regular Cab with the long bed, which measures at 235.5 inches in length. The longest is the Crew Cab with a long bed, which measures 266.09 inches in length. The overall width of this truck ranges between 81.75 and 81.85 inches, while the overall height varies between 79.65 and 79.82 inches, depending on the model.

The front track on all models is 68.1 inches while the rear track is 68.3 inches. Max ground clearance is just over ten inches. The lightest truck on offer is the gas-powered Regular Cab with a curb weight of 6,105 pounds. On the other side of the spectrum, the Crew Cab with the diesel engine, 4WD, and the long bed weighs as much as 7,886 lbs.

A big and bold truck deserves a big and bold color palette, and GMC does not disappoint in this regard. The base model can be finished in your choice of six colors, with Summit White being the only no-cost option. The other five colors on offer cost $495 each and include Cardinal Red, Onyx Black, Pacific Blue Metallic, and Quicksilver Metallic, as well as Forest Metallic - a new color. Last year's Brownstone Metallic has been discontinued. The SLE adds Ebony Twilight Metallic and Cayenne Red Tintcoat, the latter being a pricier $645. The SLT can be painted with a White Frost Tricoat for an additional $1,095, though the AT4 doesn't get the same options; it's only available in Summit White, Onyx Black, Pacific Blue, Forest, Ebony Twilight, and Cayenne Red. The Denali gets exclusive access to Hunter Metallic, which carries a $495 charge. However, this model loses the Brownstone shade - and last year's Carbon Black Metallic is not available on the Denali trim anymore at all.

Those looking to buy full-size trucks will mostly care about factors such as towing capacities, load capacities, and torque figures, and the GMC Sierra 2500HD offers plenty of each. Under the hood, you get the option of a 6.6-liter gas V8 or a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8. The former produces 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque, while the latter churns out 445 hp and 910 lb-ft. The Sierra 2500HD can be configured in RWD or 4x4 guise. No matter what engine you go for, the GMC Sierra offers excellent performance, but those looking for a serious working truck will prefer the massive torque output of the 6.6-liter turbodiesel engine. The performance figures are impressive: independent testing has shown that the diesel will manage a best 0-60 mph sprint in under seven seconds and under 20 seconds when pulling a trailer weighing 18,000 pounds. The maximum towing capacity is 18,500 lbs for diesel-engine Crew Cab trucks, but gooseneck trailering ups that to 18,510 lbs for the diesel 2WD model in Regular Cab form. The maximum payload capacity is 3,979 lbs, which applies to the 2WD Regular Cab with the gas engine.

GMC doesn't beat around the bush when it comes to power, and you won't find any 4-cylinder engines here. Under the hood of the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, it's strictly V8 power. The 6.6-liter V8 gas engine was first introduced in 2020 and produces a healthy 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear or all four wheels via a heavy-duty, electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission. This engine does a convincing job of hauling this large truck around town, and you'll never be left wanting for power, but you'll be left with the nagging reminder that there is a more powerful option on the table. The 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 engine is the one to go for if you want all the power and bragging rights. With 445 hp and a mammoth 910 lb-ft of torque on offer, this engine makes short work of heavy trailers, and thanks to a silky 10-speed auto transmission, the diesel boasts smooth, hassle-free power delivery. Either way, both power plants are up to the task.

Full-size trucks have come a long way in terms of drive comfort and handling ability, and the GMC Sierra 2500HD is up there with the best of them thanks to its use of an independent front suspension. Not only does this little party trick make the ride more comfortable than ever before, but it also helps the truck feel more eager to turn in and more maneuverable in general. This is great for city driving but also helps a ton when taking on the great outdoors. When it comes to towing, it is amazing how comfortable the 2500HD is; this truck will make an excellent long distance cruiser. It helps that both V8 options barely feel strained when hauling a trailer on the open road.

Off-road, the 2500HD is a capable machine but can be a bit big for tight trails. The AT4 trim adds all-terrain tires and a two-speed transfer case, as well as an off-road-tuned suspension for increased capability, and it pays off. The exhaust brake function is highly effective at keeping the brakes from overcooking.

The EPA does not provide any official gas mileage figures for most large, heavy-duty trucks like the GMC but don't get your hopes up: these engines will both offer pretty lousy fuel economy, especially when fully loaded. However, there are a few real-world consumption reports that give an idea of what to expect. With the diesel engine, 2021 trucks were found to return an average figure of around 14.5 mpg. The V8 gas engine, however, returned a heavier number of 11.5 mpg. Based on these figures and the various tank capacities on offer, the range you get will vary quite dramatically. For instance, a Regular Cab with the diesel engine has a 28-gallon tank, so it could, theoretically, achieve around 406 miles. However, all cab styles with the gas engine have a standard 36-gallon tank so can travel for around 414 miles between visits to the pumps, using the assumed figures. Double Cab and Crew Cab derivatives with the diesel engine also have access to a 36-gallon tank and these models will have the best range of around 522 miles. Fuel economy will vary greatly depending on your driving style and how loaded the vehicle is, of course.

Two years ago's redesign did wonders for the Sierra 2500HD's appeal: it's an attractive truck to look at, but unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the inside of the cabin. The design seems rudimentary and out of date when compared to rivals from Ford and Ram, and the choice of materials isn't that impressive either. Denali models do an excellent job of lifting the cabin with plusher materials, but the design remains an issue. Thankfully, there's a lot of interior space to thrash about in disappointment. In base form, this is a simple working truck that offers vinyl seats and manual windows, but the higher up you go, premium features such as rear-seat infotainment and navigation become available.

From the three-seater Regular Cab to Double and Crew Cabs with two rows, this big truck offers ample space and can accommodate up to six people depending on cab style. The AT4 and Denali reduce the usual six seats to five due to their sporty bucket-style seats. The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offers a generous 43.11 inches of headroom in the Regular Cab, while Double and Crew Cabs drop that figure to 43.03 in the front. Legroom is also generous at 44.53 inches in front for all cab styles, while the Crew Cab provides a massive 43.4 inches of legroom for back seat passengers. The standard seats are well-padded and will find preference with those who rack up lots of miles. The driving position is high-set, which aids in forward visibility. SLT models and upward gain ten-way power-adjustable front seats.

The 2500HD is a hard-working truck, especially in base trim, so it makes sense that GMC has gone with hard-wearing materials instead of a more premium choice. The base model is as basic as it comes and is fitted with a choice of Jet Black cloth or vinyl seats and a rubberized vinyl floor covering. This setup should last the working man a good few years. The SLE adds a bit of comfort in the form of standard carpeted flooring and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also adds Dark Walnut/Slate to the color palette, drops vinyl as a material choice. The SLT gets perforated, leather-appointed front outboard seats, and front and rear carpeted floor mats. The AT4 has premium floor liners, and the top of the range Denali gets its own unique Forge perforated leather upholstery. Color choices are rather limited. For example, the entry-level model and AT only offer Jet Black, while the SLE and SLT add Dark Walnut/Slate as an option. The Kalahari accents of the AT4 add a bit more flair to the environment, and the Denali gets exclusive access to the Dark Walnut/Dark Ash Grey combination.

The entire point of buying the GMC Sierra 2500HD is to gain access to the bed in the back. GMC offers the 2022 truck with two bed lengths, namely the standard and long beds. The standard supplies a sizable 69.5 cubic feet of space. If you're after more space, the long bed (which is 16 inches longer) provides 83.5 cubic feet of space.

Inside, small-item storage depends on which cab style is selected, but all include cupholders and a glovebox. Some cab styles have under-seat storage in the front and rear, and some have large center console storage units. Crew Cab models in the lower trims get a 60/40-split folding rear seat.

Five models make up the range, but as we found in prior reviews, don't expect anything spectacular at the lower end. The base-model Sierra comes with only the basics such as four-way manually adjustable vinyl/cloth seats, a 3.5-inch diagonal monochromatic driver information display, single-zone climate control, a rearview camera, hitch guidance, and dual USB ports. The SLE adds features such as cruise control, cloth seats, a leather steering wheel, a compass, and a 4.2-inch color driver-information display. The mid-range SLT's specs are more impressive and include a 10-way power front seats (driver's seat with power lumbar support), leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, hitch view added to the hitch guidance, and remote start. The off-road AT4 adds features such as front bucket seats with ventilation, heated rear outboard seats, and a front center console. The range-topping Denali includes an eight-inch digital driver info center, a bed-view camera, HD surround vision, a universal home remote, and wireless charging. A 15-inch diagonal multi-color head-up display is available optionally on both the AT4 and Denali.

The infotainment system has become a critical selling point for most modern vehicles, even heavy-duty trucks, so it is disappointing to find a small seven-inch touchscreen display in the base model Sierra 2500HD. At least the system is quick to respond to inputs. The base system comes with Bluetooth streaming, an AM/FM radio, a six-speaker sound system, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. However, the base Regular Cab makes do with only two speakers. The SLE gets the base system with an eight-inch display and adds 4G LTE Wi-Fi compatibility and SiriusXM radio. The SLT gets the premium infotainment system, also with an eight-inch display, which includes wireless phone projection, SiriusXM 360 L, HD Radio, and voice-activated technology. The top-of-the-range Denali adds navigation and a seven-speaker premium Bose sound system that does a much better job of playing back your favorite tunes.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD has so far not been subject to any recalls. The 2021 2500HD was subjected to three recalls based on the NHTSA's records. Two had to do with the seat belts - in both cases, occupants may not be properly restrained in an accident. This could be due to either a seat belt bracket that isn't secured or, in the case of the more recent recall, incorrect bolts used to attach the belts. The third was for an incorrect size of spare wheel that, if fitted at the rear, can confuse the ABS system and thus interfere with braking ability.

GMC covers the Sierra 2500HD with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty, a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain/drivetrain warranty on diesel engines for the same time period but just 60,000 miles in the case of the gas engine. A one-year/one visit maintenance plan and a five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan are also included. For the latter plan, the coverage extends to 100,000 miles in the case of the diesel model.

For now, no 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD crashworthiness review has been published by the NHTSA or the IIHS. However, the previous-generation 2019 model did score four out of five stars on the NHTSA rating system. Considering that safety standards are always improving, we expect that the newer 2020-2022 Sierra should improve on this score. The smaller 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 has been tested by the IIHS and mainly received Good ratings in all crashworthiness categories (besides the Marginal small overlap passenger-side test) and the 2022 model achieved four stars out of five overall at the NHTSA so, once again, the 2500HD is likely to be quite a safe truck.

The Sierra 2500HD's biggest safety system is its sheer size, but GMC has added basics like six airbags, including seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the driver and front passenger, StabiliTrak, electronic stability control, a rearview camera, and Teen Driver for every model. SLE models add OnStar and GMC Connected Services, and the SLT includes an HD rear vision camera along with hitch guidance with hitch view. The Denali is the only model that comes with active driver-assistance tech such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, following distance indicator, front and rear park assist, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. An HD surround vision camera system is standard on the Denali as well. Most of these features are offered as optional extras on lower models.

GMC plays open cards with buyers: the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a no-nonsense truck that gets the job done. In base form, the features list is short, and the interior basic, but the moving parts under the skin are well-engineered and hard-wearing. The two engine options help this truck haul competitive loads and offer good power, albeit at the cost of fuel economy. On the road, the 2500HD drives surprisingly well, and with good available trailering tech, this pickup is the perfect work partner. Those looking for a more refined experience will have to deal with a notable price increase, especially when going for the top-of-the-range Denali. Pay the extra money, and you do get a fair share of premium features and standard driver assistance features. The 2500HD is a solid truck. Our only wish was that GMC did something to freshen up the dated interior, but other than that, it's a solid choice.

The price of the GMC Sierra 2500HD lineup starts at $36,700 for the Sierra 2WD Regular Cab Long Bed with the standard gas V8. This price excludes registration, taxes, and a destination fee of $1,695. This is followed by the SLE at $42,100 and the SLT at $52,100, though the latter entails upgrading to the Double Can and settling for the standard bed. Once you start looking at Crew Cab configurations, the AT4 becomes available at $59,600, but this also means equipping the 4x4 drivetrain. The same is true for the range-topping Denali, which starts at $66,000. These prices all represent the trims in their most affordable form.

Being a truck, the price per trim will rise based on a number of factors. For example, the base Sierra is $2,800 pricier in 4x4 guise. Other trims can also be upgraded to 4x4 although the AT4 and Denali are 4x4 by default. Elsewhere in the lineup, the most affordable SLT will cost $9,890 more if you upgrade to the Duramax turbodiesel engine. Different bed lengths will also influence the price - it simply depends on the type of truck you need.

There are five trims in the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD lineup, namely Pro, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. The base engine is a 401-hp 6.6-liter gas V8 coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission and with a choice of RWD or 4x4. A 445-hp 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 engine is also available and coupled to a ten-speed automatic transmission, also with a choice of 2WD or 4WD. Three body styles and two bed sizes are available that, in combination, determine the final configuration of the truck.

The base Pro trim comes as standard with 17-inch steel wheels, default black for the beltline trim, mirrors, and door handles, chrome for the bumpers, and LED daytime running lights. The four-way manually adjustable front seats are covered in vinyl (cloth is optional) and further interior features include hitch guidance, and a 3.5-inch monochrome driver-information display. The infotainment system's screen measures seven inches and includes Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth streaming. Safety features include six airbags, stability control, ABS, a backup camera, and a teen-driver system.

Upgrading to the SLE adds 17-inch alloy wheels and the multi-function MultiPro tailgate with EZ Lift. On the inside, it gets carpeting, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, cruise control, a 4.2-inch color driver-information display, and a compass. The infotainment screen measures eight inches and gains SiriusXM and 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability.

The SLT trim can only be had in Double or Crew Cab, not Regular Cab, and on the outside, it additionally gets 18-inch alloy wheels, LED cargo-bed lighting, chrome for the door handles and mirrors, LED headlights, and LED fog lights. Inside, the ten-way electrically adjustable and heated outboard front seats gets perforated leather upholstery and other additional features include dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, keyless open and start, remote start, hitch view, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an eight-inch driver-information display. The infotainment system gains wireless phone projection.

The off-road ready AT4 is available exclusively with the Crew Cab body and the 4WD drivetrain and gets the Off-Road Package that includes an Autotrac two-speed transfer case, off-road suspension, and hill-descent control as standard. Its exterior gets color-coded bumpers and door handles, a spray-on bed liner, and gloss-black mirror caps. Added luxury features include ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, premium front floor liners, and a front center console.

The range-topping Denali trim also requires the Crew Cab body and 4x4, but it's more luxurious. From the outside, it can be distinguished by its 20-inch alloy wheels, smoked-amber LED roof marker lights, and model-specific frontal treatment. Added interior features include an eight-inch driver-information display, a bed-view camera, a power-sliding rear window, full leather upholstery, a universal home remote, wireless charging, navigation, and a premium seven-speaker Bose audio system. It also gains a suite of driver-assistance features, including lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind zone alert, forward-collision warning, front and rear park sensors, auto high beams, and a surround-view camera.

Trucks need to cater to a variety of needs so there are numerous packages to choose from. However, prices aren't always what they seem and some initially appealing packages can only be bundled together with other expensive extras.

Starting with the base model, the Sierra is offered with the $1,950 Convenience Package, which adds features such as remote keyless entry, cruise control, an EZ lift power lock and release tailgate, tinted glass, and LED cargo bed lighting. The $1,365 Gooseneck / 5th Wheel package adds a spray-on bed liner, an integrated trailer brake controller, and a bed-mounted 7-pin trailer harness but requires buyers to select other supporting options for a grand total of $3,315. On the 4x4 version of the base Regular Cab, GMC offers a $525 X31 Off-Road package for outdoor enthusiasts which includes upgraded suspension, hill descent control, skid plates, and 17-inch all-terrain Blackwall tires.

The cheapest, Regular Cab SLE is eligible for packages such as the SLE Convenience package, which adds a 10-way power driver's seat, keyless open and start, and remote start for $2,255. The Preferred Package costs $635 on the Regular Cab, and adds SiriusXM with 360L, wireless phone projection, and the premium infotainment display (still eight inches), but other cab styles require many other extras, pushing the price of this package up..

Higher up in the lineup, AT4 models are offered with the $7,975 AT4 Premium Plus Package, which includes features such as a power sunroof, rear camera mirror, safety alert seat, the premium Bose sound system, the Driver Alert Package, and HD surround vision. Denali models can be kitted out with the $2,990 Denali Black Diamond Edition, which adds premium floor liners, power side steps, an upgraded sound system by Kicker, black 20-inch alloy wheels, a head-up display, and more, but requires one to go for the Duramax diesel engine and other options, pushing the overall additional cost to over $14,000.

With so many trims, cab, and bed lengths to choose from, there truly is something for everyone. If you're looking for a comfortable daily workhorse, we would suggest going with the 2WD SLE with the optional 6.6-liter turbodiesel engine. This truck not only sports 910 lb-ft of torque but gets added luxuries such as cruise control, remote keyless entry, cloth seats, a leather steering wheel, and a 4.2-inch driver info display. If you're more of a family man, then the Double Cab, Regular Bed SLT should be perfect. This truck offers ample cargo space and premium features such as leather power seats, dual-zone climate control, and wireless phone charging. We'd suggest getting the optional driver aids, too.

GMC offers a massive range of trucks for all occasions and requirements, and the 1500 is the smaller brother that is just as hardy but costs less. The GMC 1500 starts at just over $30,000 but is still a solid performer with a maximum towing capacity of 11,800 pounds. Unfortunately, it doesn't offer the same power but does get a powerful 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine with 460 lb-ft of torque. It's the more economical truck thanks to its lighter weight and smaller engines. On the inside, these trucks both offer the same look and feel and spacious cabins. The 1500 is perfect for the person who needs a rugged truck, but not necessarily all the pulling power of the 6.6-liter diesel in the 2500. Which one is best, though, will depend on just how much heavy lifting you need to do.

The choice here will, in most cases, boil down to brand loyalty, seeing as both the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD and the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD share the same underpinnings and engines. The bad news for the GMC is that the Chevy is nearly $2,000 cheaper. The significant difference here is the look of each pickup. We prefer the blunt and aggressive look of the Chevrolet, although personal tastes will vary considerably and many don't love the Chevy for exactly the same reason. On the inside, the GMC surprises by offering better interior quality, and the GMC MultiPro tailgate is also a big plus. But neither of these will really sway Chevy loyalists away from the brand, and vice versa.