The GMC Sierra 1500 pickup is set for a model refresh for the 2022 model year, ushering in, among other things, a completely new interior. The new cabin space will delete the current model’s column shifter.
GM Authority recently published spy images of the refreshed 2022 GMC Sierra Denali 1500’s interior space, showing off the new gauges, new infotainment gear, a new center stack, and a new dash. Critically, the new images also show that the refresh will remove the column shifter.
We wrote about the removal of the column shifter with the debut of the 2022 GMC Sierra back in October following the release of an older set of spy images. Now, these newer images confirm that the column shifter is indeed going away with the upcoming model refresh.
It’s also worth noting that the new console-mounted shifter seen on this 2022 GMC Sierra prototype appears as though it comes straight out of the 2022 GMC Hummer EV, with a bent, L-shaped design and glossy trim with a silver surround.
The shifter will incorporate GM’s Electronic Precision Shift (EPS) technology, which means it will be a “digital” shifter control without any kind of mechanical linkage to the actual shifting mechanism. The EPS tech, first used on Cadillac models, provides reduced noise and vibration, and a smoother, more precise shifting response, while also enabling greater cabin real estate in terms of hard controls.
Notably, the upcoming refreshed 2022 Chevy Silverado will also include an overhauled interior design that won’t come with a column shifter.
In addition to a new interior, the 2022 GMC Sierra will introduce a new front and rear fascia design, new wheels, new exterior colors, and updated tech features, including the GM Super Cruise semi-autonomous driver assist system.
What do you think, dear reader? Do you prefer the console shifter slated to arrive with the refreshed 2022 GMC Sierra, or do you prefer the current model’s column shifter? Let us know by voting in the poll below, and remember to subscribe to GM Authority for more GMC Sierra news, GMC news, and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
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View Comments
Are you sure that the console shifter is missing? The only "proof" pic is that of the drivers shorts and his excitement for the new truck.
Anything but a console shifter. Column is the top choice with the buttons a close second. They have to have another option for the bench seats, so hopefully there is a button shifter for most versions and the wasteful console shifter for the suburban dad specials (aka box checker versions). It is just silly to limit so much space for something that is useless so someone can think it looks cool.
3 bodies in the front seat is a safety issue nowadays. Side impacts create noggin explosions.
Consoles are useful storage spaces and coffee cup holders. I would rather sit in a bucket seat than on a bench any day.
Will it come with the panoramic roof I'm a big Gm man but if they don't upgrade this soon I'll switch to Ford soon
I actually look forward to the column shifter disappearing. I have accidentally hit it in the dark while drive and reaching towards the dash.
This is such a hack job by GM. This is rushed as Dodge and Ford have bested them on interior. They should have done a digital dash / cluster in 2021 and they know it.
I am fine with electronic control of the transmission but will not buy a truck with console shift. Living in the mountains I constantly am in manual mode and having the manual gear selector at the end of the column shifter is perfect placement. And I like the extra center seat/upper and lower storage compartments instead of a console. Just bought a crate ls3 for my 2009. No interest in buying into the direction GM is going.
There's a steering wheel paddle for range select, like the 2021 Escalade. Another commenter pointed it out in the photos.
Love it. Been waiting for this. Also get rid of the goofy buttons on the Tahoe while you’re at it. I’m an old school manual guy. I like to have the console shifter for my right arm to rest on.
This discussion brings back great memories. My friend had a '57 Plymouth with the transmission selector push buttons in the dash. He carried a screwdriver to remove the cover for every time the buttons got stuck behind the cover. Good times!
Mom had a 1962 Valiant with push buttons on the dash, same issues.
U cheat the people with the cheap plastic from china that breaks and has to be replaced but u don’t care about our lives just u bank accounts. The faulty equipment that’s put on these trucks is just bad business and will bite u in ur ass. Make the truck the name was intended Chevy built to last , or break down 5 days after we take ownership. GM is crooked back stabbing and outright lires
I like the old console shifter, not the new button or round knob "shifter"