My 2022 Black Yukon XL is getting close to finally being picked up to be built so I recently ordered 22in rims for it. Im coming from driving a decked out Wrangler which had 20s on 33s and rode rough as hell. This is where my problem comes in. I am looking forward to the much-improved ride quality so I don't want to sacrifice it too much. I know OEM GMC uses 50 but I like the look of a 40 but worried I might be giving up to much quality with a 22 on a 40. I have never had 22s before so I have no reference as far as ride quality goes and if I would even feel a difference between 40 and 50.
You could go to a 285/45/22 tire which is a little wider but shorter in overall height by about 0.8". The previous 2015-2020 Tahoes/Yukons with 22's came with 285/45/22's on them. I traded my 2019 Tahoe RST for the new Denali and you can tell a major difference in ride quality. Probably has a lot to do with the air suspension (the Tahoe did have air suspension in the rear but not all 4 corners like the Denali) and independent rear suspension but I imagine the taller side wall helps as well. I was debating going to the 285/45/22 size myself because there are a lot better tire selections in that size and nothing that great in the stock 275/50/22 size. I am hesitant because, like you, I do not want to sacrifice ride quality.
But, to make a long story even longer, you could go to a 285/45/22 if you are looking for close to stock sizing lol. Attached a picture of my previous Tahoe with the stock tires. Would like to see this size tire on the new body style trucks.
Should note your speedo is going to be off due to running the smaller tire height.