As summer comes to a close, Chevrolet has finally pulled the cover off of the 2o22 Silverado lineup. The lightly refreshed pickup doesn't look a whole lot different than before, aside from a few fascia tweaks and some running lights on LT and up models. GM has provided customers with an entirely reworked interior which packs much more tech than the outgoing model. And while that is all exciting stuff, nothing is more notable than the new Silverado ZR2 joining the lineup.

The 2022 Silverado ZR2, like the smaller Colorado ZR2, is a dedicated off-road machine. A set of Multimatic 40mm DSSV spool-valve dampers find their way to the Silverado for the first time in ZR2 trim and come paired with a unique set of springs. GM says that these suspension tweaks ensure that the ZR2 has greater suspension travel than the Trail Boss both front and rear. The front fascia has been adjusted to account for the longer travel and features a unique steel bumper. This allows the truck to have a 31.8-degree approach angle when paired with the standard 33-inch off-road MT tires. Each axle also features an e-locker, while the truck's skid plate package keeps everything safe down below. Under the hood sits a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produces 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. That's not quite on par with F-150 Raptor or Ram 1500 TRX, but it remains a sufficient amount of power for fooling around off-road. A ten-speed automatic is the sole transmission option.

All 2022 Silverado models from the LT trim level and up benefit from a massively improved interior. The new design features a ton of horizontal lines and more closely mirrors the brand's full-size SUVs. GM says the materials are improved throughout as well, which is a welcome change. The center stack and gauge cluster have been upgraded with larger units, now measuring 13.4-inches and 12.3-inches, respectively. The infotainment features direct Google integration but is compatible with Android Auto, Apple Car Play, and Amazon Alexa. Driver's can tailor the gauge cluster to display a variety of information should they so choose. Super Cruise is another tech option coming to Silverado models for 2022, and even features trailer and towing specific functions. Automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning are all standard across the lineup, however. Trucks equipped with bucket seats also receive a new shifter design.

Aside from those improvements, GM has lightly touched the powertrain lineup for 2022. The turbocharged 2.7-liter cylinder goes from 348 lb-ft to 420 lb-ft of torque for 2022, but the motor's 310 hp rating remains unchanged. The 3.0-liter Duramax can also now be had with the Max Tow Package, increasing towing capacity from 9,300 to 13,300 pounds. Fuel economy ratings aren't available for the 2022 models yet, but we wouldn't expect much of a change compared to 2021. We will know more as we get closer to spring of next year, however, as that is when GM says the trucks will arrive at dealerships.

You Might Also Like

• 16 of the Most Interesting Engine Swaps We've Ever Seen

• See 70 Years of the Greatest Ferraris Ever Built

• These Are the 14 Best New Cars for Less Than $45,000