2022 Chevrolet Silverado Addresses Previous Critiques, Adds ZR2 Trim

The full-size truck race is competitive, and one can’t afford to fall too far behind.

After a few years of hearing criticisms concerning the Silverado, and how it’s not as stylish as the Ram 1500 or well-done as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet has unveiled an updated truck, with the intent of blunting those critiques and getting back in the game.

Oh, and the brand hasn’t failed to notice the sudden popularity of off-road trims/vehicles, as evidenced by the fact it now offers a ZR2 trim on Silverado, which is a first. It’s now the flagship off-road Silverado.

Personally, your humble author never thought the current Silverado was a bad truck. I felt it was good on its own merits but lacking when compared to its two closest competitors.

Well, regardless, Chevy has given the truck a bunch of updates for 2022. Not only to the ZR2 trim, but to the interior (LT trims and up), the exterior styling, and more. Silverado adds GM’s SuperCruise driver-assistance system, and Chevy’s Safety Assist suite of driver-aid systems is now standard. The 2.7-liter turbo gains torque (it’s at 420 lb-ft now) and the 3.0-liter diesel increases towing capacity up to 13,300 pounds.

While the outside is refreshed (new front fascia, new daytime running lamps, lowered headlamps, turn signals that perform various lighting sequences as drivers approach or leave the truck), the interior is totally redesigned, at least on LT and up trims. A 13.4-inch diagonal touchscreen for infotainment is part of the upgrade.

Other interior changes include a horizontal instrument panel, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, new center console. access to select Google apps via the infotainment screen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. There’s a new shifter for trucks with bucket seats.

High Country trims get unique details meant to give off a feeling of luxury. SuperCruise will be available on High Country and available with a towing option.

Select the ZR2 trim and you get a 6.2-liter V8 (420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque), 10-speed automatic transmission, Multimatics dampers for the suspension, springs that increase suspension travel, electronic lockers front and rear, drive modes that allow you to select off-road-tuned suspension and chassis calibrations, a Terrain mode that allows for one-pedal driving off-road, 33-inch off-road tires, skid plates, and a steel front bumper that helps allow for a 31.8-inch approach angle. The dual exhaust is moved to reduce the chance of damage when boulder bashing.

ZR2s also get a different grille with integrated lighting, unique badging, a black hood insert, 18-inch wheels, and a specific interior color combination.

Things that remain the same: The Silverado still offers the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8s. The trim walk for 2022 will include LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, ZR2, LTZ, and High Country.

[Images: Chevrolet]