GMC's AT4X Trim Hits the Sweet Spot as a Luxury Off-Roader

This truck-only trim is a step up from the less-rugged AT4 and promises a big boost in off-road capability.

Benjamin Hunting | 

Apr 26, 2024 | 3 min read

GMC

Off-road trucks and SUVs command a lot of attention in the current market. Almost every brand is leaning into this trend by building special trims and models that go above and beyond when it's time to hit the trail.

GMC offers two takes on off-road utility: AT4 and AT4X. You'll find an AT4 trim level on nearly all of the automaker's models; AT4X goes farther with much more capability. Here's a look at what AT4X delivers.

GMC

To Understand AT4X, Start With the AT4 Trim Level

AT4 is an acronym for All-Terrain 4WD, intended to give the brand's SUVs and trucks extra competence when leaving the pavement behind, helping drivers tackle more difficult driving conditions.

The trim means something different depending on the model. Family-oriented crossovers and SUVs such as the Terrain, Acadia, and Yukon models mostly see cosmetic changes and additional drive modes for more rugged terrain. The Terrain AT4 adds underbody skid plates, while the Yukon and Yukon XL include different bumpers up front to improve their approach angle as well as big red recovery points.

It's with the GMC Canyon and Sierra pickups that AT4 really becomes extensive. Upgrades include larger diameter all-terrain tires, locking rear differential, more aggressive suspension tune, aftermarket shock absorbers, and a 2-inch suspension lift on Sierra models.

GMC

AT4X Takes The AT4 Trim Level Even Further

GMC offers a huge step beyond the AT4 versions with the AT4X trim on the Sierra and Canyon pickups. Making them a safer bet when clambering over rocks or splashing through the mud, these AT4X trims include the top-spec engine for each vehicle as standard equipment. There are also electronically locking differentials front and rear, Multimatic shock absorbers, and longer suspension travel.

Buyers can opt for an AEV Edition version of each GMC truck if they want even more off-road goodies. This adds extra styling flair and equipment from the third-party American Expedition Vehicles, such as bumpers, winches, stronger skid plates, and beadlock-capable wheels.

GMC

GMC AT4X Models Face Stiff Competition

The GMC AT4X trims compare well against Toyota's Tacoma and Tundra TRD Pro models regarding their off-road features. The full-size Ram 1500 Rebel is a similar story when held up against the GMC Sierra AT4, and Ford's Ranger Raptor makes for a serious competitor against the GMC Canyon AT4.

Look to GMC sibling Chevrolet and you'll find similarities in its Colorado ZR2 and Silverado 1500 ZR2 models. Those two trucks share basic underpinnings, powertrains, styling elements, and off-road features with the Canyon AT4X and Sierra 1500 AT4X. GMC's models carry a price premium, which the automaker justifies by including a higher degree of creature comforts than what you'll find as standard in the Chevy.

For instance, the $57,000 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X builds on the top Denali trim level, which means it comes with standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, a surround-view camera, and adaptive cruise control. All those features are optional on the $48,000 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2.

All vehicle pricing includes MSRP plus destination charges (set at the time of publication), and will be rounded to the nearest thousand.

Benjamin Hunting

Benjamin Hunting is a writer and podcast host who contributes to a number of newspapers, automotive magazines, and online publications. More than a decade into his career, he enjoys keeping the shiny side up during track days and always has one too many classic vehicle projects partially disassembled in his garage at any given time. Remember, if it's not leaking, it's probably empty.