Buyers interested in the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 will likely want the Elevation trim. To no one’s surprise, it’s the most popular version of the full-size truck. When buying a pickup, buyers often struggle with which model to choose. There are many excellent models with different cab sizes, bed sizes, engines, trims and more. Here’s what makes the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation trim so popular:
The most popular 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 trim
According to Edmunds, the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation is the most popular trim level. Most buyers choose the third cheapest version of the pickup truck. Fortunately, the bottom lists are not too widespread in terms of their starting prices. The most affordable version of the GMC Sierra 1500, the Pro trim, starts at $42,895. Opting for the most popular model costs $52,695, a difference of roughly $10K. What’s so great about the 2022 GMC Sierra Elevation?
Increased towing capacity

A very important detail of any pickup truck is its capability. Engine power, towing capacity, payload capacity and more are critical for full-size truck buyers. As a result, many are only interested in the version of the model that has the most towing or payload capacity. Edmunds says the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation gets increased towing capacity compared to other trim levels.
The Sierra 1500 can tow from 8,800 to 9,100 pounds with the weaker engines. Opting for a V8 or turbodiesel will raise those numbers quite a bit. Fortunately, almost all engines are optional for either trim level.
That means buyers can choose the Elevation trim with a standard turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder, 5.3-liter V8 or turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. But choosing the Elevation trim, even with the weakest engine, adds a few hundred extra pounds to its towing capacity.
The Sierra 1500 Elevation has excellent option packages

One thing buyers love to do with their vehicle is customize it. The easiest way is to buy optional packages directly from the factory. For the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500, many options are available. But access to even more unlocks with the Elevation trim level. Another reason why it is the most popular choice is because of the many optional features and packages. GMC offers plenty of options to buyers, augmented by the Elevation trim.
For example, there’s an Elevation Premium package for $3,650. It includes a Jet Black leather interior, a step-up rear seat with storage, wireless charging, the Sierra Safety Plus package, and a spray-on bed liner. Finally, another optional package, the Preferred package, is included with this. It adds a universal home remote, a rear sliding power window, Hitch Guidance with Hitch View for towing, a trailer app, a trailer brake controller, adaptive cruise control and rear wheel arches.
Next, there is also an Elevation Black package. For $1,175, buyers get black GMC emblems, 6-inch black rectangular side steps, and all-weather floor liners. While the features aren’t particularly plentiful, the package is cheap enough that the value provided is worth the price.
By purchasing the Sierra 1500 Elevation you get the most features
RELATED: How much is the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500?
The last thing that makes the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation so popular is the many features. If you look at lists of what each trim level adds, height may not seem abundant. Exclusively, it only gets 20-inch wheels, LED fog lights, a single-speed gearbox and cloth upholstery. However, this trim level gets everything that comes with the Sierra 1500 SLE. As a result, it’s a lot more equipment-packed for just a (roughly) $2,000 price increase.
For example, key features with the SLE trim are heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a 13.4-inch infotainment screen, the MultiPro configurable tailgate, remote start and much more. These are just a few of the highlights, but the SLE and Elevation are very well equipped with a long list of technology, features and amenities.
- LED bed lighting
- Trailer hitch
- Reversing camera with guidelines for towbar
- Auto-locking rear differential
- Cruise control
- Keyless entry/ignition
- Carpeted floor
- Electrically adjustable driver’s seat
- Dual zone automatic climate control
- Additional USB ports
- Cabin and bed 120-volt electrical outlet
- Satellite radio
Why is the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation so popular?
In conclusion, there are many reasons why the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation is the most popular trim. Some include the many features, optional packages and increased towing capacity. However, there are even more reasons why customers like this level of equipment so much. With so many ways to customize the full-size truck with cab sizes, bed sizes and engine options, it’s hard to choose the perfect GMC Sierra 1500. Do you agree with most buyers that the Elevation trim is the best version of the pickup truck?
RELATED: Is High Country or Denali better? 2022 Chevy Silverado vs. GMC Sierra