Quick Take: 2022 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2
One of America’s best-selling and dependable trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado received major updates for the 2022 model year, most notable of which is the addition of the ZR2 version that’s intended for off-road trails. Other updates include a standard 13.4-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system and a redesigned interior on higher-end trim levels. We managed to spend some time with the 2022 Silverado ZR2 earlier this week and after some time on the curvy roads of Malibu, we stepped out of the truck delighted at how much more refined the Silverado had become, despite having driven an off-road optimized model.
Opting for the ZR2 version of the Silverado brings Multimatic spool-valve dampers, springs that help increase suspension travel compared to the Trail Boss trim, front and rear electronic locking differentials, 33-inch off-road tires, unique skid plates, and a novel steel front bumper suited for a 31.8-degree approach angle. All ZR2s come with the larger 6.2-liter V-8 that makes 420 horsepower and which makes the ZR2 well-suited for desert running. Though we didn’t have the chance to really sample the Silverado ZR2 off-road, the on-road qualities on the serpentine paved paths of Malibu were terrific with excellent steering feel and maneuverability regardless of the truck’s full size. Ride comfort was great with little to no unnecessary bouncing on the road, making the ZR2 well-suited for long trips.
Other standard equipment on our Crew Cab test truck included forward collision alert, lane departure warning, Surround Vision (helpful when parking), a 120-volt power outlet in the bed, and LED headlights. In addition, the ZR2 we drove was optioned with the useful rear camera mirror, 15-inch multicolor head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and the multiflex tailgate. The updated interior of the 2022 Silverado is definitely a high point, looking and feeling much better than before. Controls were simple to learn and use while the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium system was intuitive.
With the refreshed 2022 Silverado, Chevrolet has made its full-size truck much more appealing to shoppers once they get into the driver’s seat. And choosing the ZR2 version means less worry for owners if they have to venture a great distance from a highway with cargo in the bed. We have a feeling that more Silverados will be on the road in the near future as the updates really bring out the best of the full-size truck’s capabilities.
