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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I love the GMC trucks. They got good design and the shifter is old technology. Put a key pad to the left of the GPS. So you don't spill coffee all over it.
As much as I prefer to column shifter, as long as GM doesn't use a push button or rotary knob for the shifter it's not terrible. I wonder if the column shifter is gone on all trims, including work and SLE/LT or if it's just replaced with the console shift in the high end trims. Hopefully the column shift with a bench is still an option on some trims.
No... No... No...!
I drive into & out of 50 driveways a day, 50 weeks a year. No column shifter has ever given any problem, and I keep my trucks for about 8 years.
The 2014 Silverado I have infuriates me because it takes much longer to switch from Reverse to Drive (and back) than the four speed auto in my 2006 Silverado. That can be very dangerous when a vehicle is bearing down on you after you've backed out of a driveway. The stupid console shifter will be even slower, more fidly, and more problem prone.
Progress...? I think NOT!
Looks like they are trying to keep up with fords , personally I'd rather have a column shifter any day in my truck
So. Console shifter, etc? I take it consoles are now mandatory; no more split bench seats?
They should have left it where it was. Now you will have less room in the middle. Also more to go wrong. Heck just use buttons on the dash then.
I hate the electric parking brake button on a vehicle I have now.
In an Emergency you could slowly engage the parking brake to bring the vehicle to a stop.
You're going to have alot more people getting ran over when they miss park while using that dial.
I will take a column shifter every time. I have a Cadillac XT-4 with the electronic console shift, it is the most unintuitive thing I've ever had to deal with. Even after 2 years, I have to think about how to shift in and out of park. Never an issue with my 17 Sierra.
I to prefer the column shift. It is an easy reach, out of the way and virtually brainless. If the console shifter is so great why is Ford offering the NEW fold away option on their F150. If you don't put the shifter there in the first place { where I think it takes up too much real estate} -- you don't have to go thru the complicated mess of making it " dis appear"
My thoughts exactly
Gm should put a switch in to disable the start stop . I have seen vichels stopped at intersection that didn't start