2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

In 2021, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a heavy, rugged build that was consistent with traditional American pickup styling. Its chiseled details, boxy shape, and pronounced wheel arches gave it a formidable presence on the road. Notably, it was available in a variety of trim levels, including the LTZ, which came fully loaded with luxury features such as an inline-six turbodiesel engine and advanced technology packages. However, its interior was criticized for appearing outdated, with glossy plastics and an overall lack of refinement.

Moving into 2022, the Silverado 1500 saw significant cosmetic and practical upgrades, particularly in the interior which was a major point of disappointment in the 2021 model. The refreshed version, particularly in the ZR2 trim, offered vastly improved materials and a modern infotainment system with its massive 13.4-inch touchscreen. The redesign didn't skimp on rugged aesthetics either, modifying the front grille and bumpers for a more contemporary but still robust appearance.

The 2021 Silverado 1500 excelled with its range of powertrains, notably the Duramax turbodiesel that combined reasonable fuel efficiency with robust towing capabilities. Despite its less powerful 277 horsepower compared to the 420 horsepower 6.2-liter V8, it offered adequate performance for most tasks. Additionally, the Silverado's optional Z71 Off-Road Package enhanced its handling, particularly on unstable terrains.

The 2022 Silverado made strides with the introduction of the ZR2 model, tailored for off-road performance with features like a 2-inch lift and 33-inch all-terrain tires. Its exclusive Multimatic dampers provided consistent damping across various conditions, which is crucial for off-road excursions. While its 6.2-liter V8 delivered the same power, the setup specialized in handling rather than maximum towing, with a lower capacity compared to the previous year.

Interior and cargo space in the 2021 Silverado 1500 were generous, with a highly functional cargo area enhanced by a variety of tailgate configurations. The interior, while spacious, was let down by its dated design and materials.

In contrast, the 2022 Silverado ZR2 not only maintained generous internal dimensions but introduced quality finishes and a more intuitive layout. Improvements included enhanced upholstery quality, better seat adjustability, and a more organized control setup that contributed to an elevated driving experience. Moreover, the cargo solutions became more sophisticated with features like the MultiFlex tailgate, enhancing functionality.

Technology in the 2021 Silverado included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system endowed with standard connectivity features but fell short of competitors in terms of size and intuitiveness. It provided comprehensive trailering tech, although it wasn't the best in class.

The 2022 model took a significant leap forward with its 13.4-inch touchscreen and the addition of Google-based functionalities. Though there were initial teething problems with system responsiveness, the overall technological experience was superior to its predecessor, supported by improved sound system quality and a full suite of driver-assist features.

Safety in the 2021 Silverado was adequate but not class-leading, with a mix of basic and optional advanced safety features and disappointing crash-test ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 update saw the standardization of Chevy Safety Assist across all trims, enhancing baseline safety offerings. Although detailed crash test data for this upgraded model were not fully available, the standard inclusion of more advanced safety technologies likely improved its standing.