2022 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2023 Jeep Gladiator

In 2022, the GMC Sierra 1500 received notable changes, especially with the introduction of the Denali Ultimate and AT4X variants that built on the existing Denali and AT4 trims. This expansion resulted in an impressive array of eight trims: Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, Denali, AT4X, and Denali Ultimate. A mid-cycle refresh made the Sierra appear larger and more aggressive than its predecessor.

Visually, the Sierra seemed broader despite maintaining the same physical dimensions. An updated grille, front fascia, and split-C headlight design contributed to a wider and more seamless appearance. For the Denali trims, the grille saw a transition from a mesh pattern to a “tri-linear” theme with thicker chrome inserts for a bold look. The Denali Ultimate replaced the traditional chrome-heavy grille with dark-colored “Vader bars” for an edgy touch. Meanwhile, the SLT, AT4, and AT4X trims had less flamboyant but equally commanding grilles, featuring chrome, black, and dark nickel accents.

The Sierra featured new wheel designs, varying between bright-polished chrome for the Denali and low-gloss black for the Denali Ultimate, with other trims receiving their own unique styles. Exterior-wise, the truck’s silhouette remained unchanged, offering standard, double, and crew cab versions, plus options for different bed sizes. The new paint options—Titanium Rush Metallic, Dynamic Blue Metallic, and Desert Sand Metallic—added an extra touch of flair. Inside, the redesigned dashboard and robust materials made the cabin feel wider and more spacious.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator saw fewer changes, with the notable addition of the Gladiator Freedom Edition in honor of American servicemen and servicewomen. Based on the Sport S trim, this edition included gloss black wheels, body-color fender flares, a winch-capable steel front bumper, steel rock rails, LED headlights, cloth seats with leather trim, and special decals. Jeep pledged to donate $250 per sale to military charities and offered a $500 discount to servicepeople.

Apart from the new High Velocity Yellow paint and added equipment for the Willys trim, Jeep introduced a new Capability Package for the High Altitude model, improving its rugged appeal. The test model, a Gladiator Mojave, was equipped for desert driving, featuring Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, a front suspension lift, and 33-inch all-terrain tires.

Visually, the Gladiator maintained its distinct Jeep lineage and the appeal of a pickup with removable doors and a top, uniquely positioning itself in the market. The Mojave model stood out with a non-functional hood scoop, high-clearance fender flares, and orange accents. Internally, the Gladiator’s resemblance to the Wrangler meant durability over opulence—plastic and rubber surfaces dominated, ensuring ease of cleanup. Yet, the orange stitching, vent surrounds, and unique fabric seat inserts elevated the cabin's aesthetic.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four engines, two transmissions, and both RWD and 4WD options. The standard 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine saw enhancements, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque—an increase of over 20% in torque from the previous year. The eight-speed automatic transmission was refined for smoother shifts.

The diesel option, a 3.0-liter Duromax turbo-diesel inline-six, produced a formidable 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine saw an increase in its tow rating to a class-leading 13,200 pounds for 2WD models with the Max Trailering Package. The 5.3-liter V8 outputted 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.2-liter V8 offered a powerful 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its substantial size, the Sierra Denali Ultimate 4WD boasted a smooth and quiet ride. The AT4X variant impressed with almost equally luxurious on-road manners, thanks to its specialized off-road suspension featuring Multimatic DSSV dampers and unique springs. Off-roading in the AT4X at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park highlighted its capabilities, especially on steep inclines like the Diablo Drop-Off, supported by e-locking differentials and robust suspension travel.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator, available with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 with 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, provided standard part-time 4WD with a two-speed transfer case. Trim-specific upgrades included the Rock-Trac system with a Tru-Lok front differential for Rubicon models and Tru-Lok rear differentials for both Rubicon and Mojave trims.

The Gladiator Mojave, designed for high-speed desert driving, performed well off-road with its Fox shocks and elevated suspension.However, on regular roads, the Gladiator's higher noise level and lack of passing power detracted from its appeal. Adaptive powertrain calibration allowed for rapid acceleration off the line, while the vehicle's rugged suspension delivered comfort even on rough urban roads.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 excelled in interior space and cargo capacity. With a best-in-class short bed offering and vast interior room, the truck provided around 43 inches of front headroom and 44.5 inches of front legroom. Rear headroom averaged 40 inches, while legroom varied between 35.2 inches for double cabs and 43.4 inches for crew cabs. Despite its abundant storage space, some ergonomic quirks, such as a low centerline for screens and an overwhelming number of buttons, reduced user-friendliness. Nevertheless, features like massaging seats added luxury to the experience.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator, with its crew cab configuration, presented the challenge of narrow rear doors. Removing optional side steps facilitated easier entry and exit. The manually height-adjustable front seats required frequent readjustments due to lever placement, but the ample rear seat legroom and supportive cushions offered comfort for adults. Storage was practical, with various compartments, netting, and a sizable bin under the back seats.

However, the Gladiator's 35.5 cubic-foot steel cargo box was less deep than competitors, compensated for by features like a spray-in bedliner, three-position tailgate, and a Trail Rail Management System with adjustable tie-downs and a power outlet. The Jeep also offered unique amenities such as a portable Bluetooth speaker for outdoor activities.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 introduced larger display screens. A 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in came standard, offering a user-friendly interface with fast response times. The touchscreen allowed dual-display modes, standard wireless device charging, and optional features like a head-up display and a 12-speaker Bose system.

In comparison, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, with its rugged persona, offered advanced technology suited for off-road enthusiasts. The Mojave test truck featured an Off-Road+ driving mode and a TrailCam forward-facing camera. Standard tech included a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker stereo. An optional 8.4-inch system provided connected services, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Alexa integration, and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. However, voice recognition was lacking in accuracy, and the passive keyless entry system added convenience.

For the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500, the most notable addition was GM's Super Cruise, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system. Although limited to the Denali Ultimate trim, Super Cruise impressed with its simplicity and smooth operation. Additional trailering safety features and up to 14 camera views supported safe driving and towing. Standard GCC Pro Safety included features like forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Sierra earned good crash test ratings from the IIHS but had room for improvement in front-passenger safety and headlight performance. The NHTSA awarded the Sierra 2WD models four stars for crashworthiness, with 4WD models unrated.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator's safety features were minimal, with available options like SiriusXM Guardian Services providing emergency notifications and alerts. Optional Safety Group features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors, which were deemed necessary due to the small exterior mirrors and three-star rollover resistance rating. The Advanced Safety Group added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The NHTSA gave the Gladiator four stars for frontal impact, while the IIHS rated its headlights as marginal.