It doesn’t take someone with insider knowledge or expertise to notice that drastic changes occur throughout the automotive industry every year. The past few years in particular have seen a pandemic, microchip shortage, and a slew of new makes and models equipped with features that push technological innovations to their absolute limit. There’s a great deal that can occur in a mere 365 days. If you’re a fan of Chevy, then you might have noticed a new rivalry forming between the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 vs the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 LTD (Limited).
No, this isn’t a new trimline that Chevy has sprung on us. So, what is it then? Essentially, the LTD is what’s known as a carry-over model. If you’re unfamiliar with this concept, I will take the time to explain it in detail.
Take a look at what the LTD is, how it differs from the standard Silverado 1500, and why manufacturers utilize this concept. I’ll examine both models of the Silverado and attempt to shine some light on any curiosities you might have.
2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 Limited vs. 1500: What’s the Difference?
As I briefly mentioned, the 2022 Silverado 1500 LTD is a carry-over model. For each model year, manufacturers tend to emphasize redesigns and updates so that their offering for the year ahead is completely up-to-date with the trends that affect the industry as a whole. Naturally, there’s a gap between the current model that’s still available from the previous year and the moment when a new model enters the production phase.
A gap such as this means that something must exist to satisfy consumer demand—because having a truck on the market is better than having no truck at all. That’s where the 2022 Silverado LTD comes into the equation. To satisfy the needs of potential customers who are in the market for a new truck, the 2021 Silverado 1500 is repackaged as the 2022 Silverado LTD.
This practice is by no means exclusive to Chevy, as both Jeep and Ram have similar models that they use to fill the gaps between production: both the Ram Classic and Jeep Grand Cherokee WK, for example. A carry-over model can be a very advantageous purchase for those in the market for a new vehicle. This sentiment was echoed in a 2010 article from Consumer Reports, which was very direct when reporting on this matter: “Consider waiting until these fresh designs have been fully tested and have demonstrated a proven reliability record. After all, we have seen several new models lately not perform as well as their predecessors on both counts, and there are far more choices in carry-overs.”
Compare and Contrast
On paper, it might seem a bit redundant to compare two versions of the Silverado that are so close in years. However, as stated earlier, there’s much that can happen in such a short time frame, and the significant differences between the two vehicles are what I’m here to examine. Every driver is different, and so are the basic needs as far as capability and performance are concerned. Let’s not waste any more time with exposition. Let us begin….
While the Silverado 1500 LTD is carried over from the previous model year, there were some changes made that are for the benefit of the truck’s overall performance. The 2022 LTD version dropped the six-speed automatic transmission that was offered during the 2021 model year, now offering eight and ten-speed transmissions to boost performance. Also eliminated were the 4.3-L V6 and the older model’s 5.3-L V8. In its place is an updated 5.3-L EcoTec V-8, which is equipped with active fuel management. This feature helps limit the engine’s output at certain speeds to minimize fuel consumption. The Silverado LTD now offers a turbocharged four-cylinder, two gasoline-powered V8s, and an inline-six turbo-diesel.
The newly refreshed and redesigned 2022 Silverado 1500 offers quite a few impressive upgrades for the current model year. Of all the changes that were implemented, the arrival of the ZR2 off-roading package has generated the most excitement. While off-roading packages were previously offered for the smaller-sized S-10 and Colorado, the Silverado 1500 receiving one means there’s more direct competition with the Ford F-150 Raptor.
Aside from offering off-roaders the chance to surf the dunes in style, the refreshed Silverado, now in its fourth generation, has increased its towing efficiency from the previous model year, which peaked at 11,000 lbs. Now, it’s capable of towing upwards of 13,300 lbs when properly equipped (with the Duramax Turbo-Diesel or 6.2-L V8 engines), GM has clearly cornered the market on the second coming of Diesel-fueled powertrains.
Interior Motives and Technological Wonders
If you use your truck in a workspace capacity, chances are you spend a decent amount of time behind the wheel. And, if you have to put in a hard day’s work, you might as well be comfortable for those big hauls and leisurely pursuits alike. Both models of the Silverado offer technology to make work and play far more enjoyable. For the Silverado 1500 LTD, a standard 7” infotainment screen anchors the interior. While General Motors has discontinued the HD radio option, you need not worry about lacking audio entertainment on the drive. The LTD is compatible with Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay—so no matter what device you use to keep yourself entertained, you’ll be able to utilize it on the road ahead.
With a new model year comes new innovations for the benefit of consumers. While the infotainment center still serves as the centerpiece of the new Silverado 1500, it’s grown-up, you might say. A standard screen size of 13.4” is practically handheld tablet-sized; that’s generous enough to beat out most of Chevy’s competitors. And, while compatibility with Android and Apple is still a part of the vehicle’s setup, Google Play, Maps, and Assistant make this one of the most technologically compatible trucks on the market today.
For those who decide to spring for the High Country top trim line, far more than luxurious interior appointments await you. These models also include GM Supercruise, a semi-autonomous driving assistance program that takes the capabilities of adaptive cruise control to all new heights, pushing the limits of capability.
Make the Choice That Best Suits You
Why would someone choose the Limited model—the repackaged, slightly updated version of the 2021 Silverado 1500—rather than going all-in for the 2022 Silverado 1500? The answer primarily lies in its price tag. The Limited version starts at only $30,400, which is about $4,200 less than the 2022 Silverado 1500. That’s a significant savings, especially as you move up the trimline and tack on other equipment.
Obviously, choosing the ideal vehicle is a subjective matter. As such, there are no winners or losers between the 2022 Silverado 1500 and the Limited 1500—as far as my findings are concerned. If anything, the champion of this contest is Chevrolet, who could offer their popular Silverado consistently—even before the current model year was released.
The 2022 Chevy Silverado LTD and the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 are both vehicles that deserve praise and attention for being versatile and exceptional—and continuing to deliver on the promise of quality that Chevy has always stood by. If history ends up repeating itself, then the next model year will be another of greatness and innovation.
