GMC Sierra 1500 AT4, AT4X, AT4X AEV: What’s the Difference?

German automakers are experts at using alphanumeric monikers for their vehicles, but GMC is pretty good, too, at least when it comes to its full-size pickup and best-selling product. The Sierra 1500 is currently available in three different models aimed at off-road driving enthusiasts and customers seeking a more rugged truck: AT4, AT4X and AT4X AEV.

What do these letters all mean? We’ll answer that question by going over each model’s main features and specs.

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Sierra 1500 AT4

The AT4 replaces the old All Terrain that was offered with the previous generation. In fact, all GMC vehicles now have at least one AT4 model in their lineup.

In the case of the Sierra 1500, the AT4 slots just above the SLT and goes a step further than the X31 all-terrain package available with the latter. It includes a two-inch factory lift with off-road suspension and Rancho monotube shocks that are better suited to challenging terrain. Underbody skid plates, front two hooks and Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac mud-terrain tires add to the list of goodies.

The 4WD system features a two-speed AutoTrac transfer case and automatic locking rear differential. Customers can choose between a short bed and a standard bed, while engine selection consists of a 3.0-litre Duramax turbo-diesel (305 hp, 495 lb-ft.) and a 6.2-litre gasoline V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft.), both mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Duramax is appealing with superior torque at lower revs, which can prove useful during technical off-road manoeuvres or when towing.

The 2023 Sierra 1500 AT4 starts at $83,597 including freight, PDI and other dealer fees.

Sierra 1500 AT4X

On par with the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, the Sierra 1500 AT4X raises the bar in terms of both capability and refinement. It’s also more generously equipped than the AT4, though with fewer options. For instance, you can only have the AT4X with a short bed and 6.2-litre V8.

Visually setting this Sierra apart is a distinctive front grille with dark nickel inserts, but more importantly a stamped-steel front bumper with winch capability. There’s a hot-stamped boron steel front approach skid plate (3.5 times stronger than cold-stamped steel), while the Goodyear tires switch to a Wrangler Territory model in a size of 33 inches. Ground clearance stays the same, but the approach, breakover and departure angles are all increased.

Next, the chassis benefits from specific off-road tuning. Among other things, the suspension gets renowned Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, which enable awesome off-road prowess and remarkable on-road comfort. Speaking of comfort, how about heated and ventilated, 16-way power front seats with massage? They’re fantastic. Oh, and we forgot to mention: specially tuned springs increase maximum suspension travel both front and rear.

Electronic locking differentials at both ends maximize control, but don’t miss the Terrain Mode, which is ideal for low-speed, off-road conditions. It even enables one-pedal rock crawling, using only the throttle.

The 2023 Sierra 1500 AT4X starts at $101,547 including freight, PDI and other dealer fees. That’s an increase of $18,000 from the regular AT4. It might just be worth it, but you should still think twice before you buy.

Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Edition

The pinnacle of off-road capability can be found in the AEV Edition of the Sierra 1500 AT4X, which is GMC’s equivalent of the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Bison. It receives a bunch of unique parts and accessories designed by American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), the Montana-based company specialized in off-road vehicles and conversions.

Styling is updated with a unique front grille and fascia, gloss black door handles and a black contrast inner tailgate. There’s AEV branding throughout the vehicle including on bumpers, embroidered head rests and all-weather floor liners. Furthermore, off-road rocker panel protectors and bolt-on step assist are optionally available.

Other upgrades include AEV stamped steel front and rear bumpers with heavy-duty recovery points and standard winch capability up front, five hot-stamped boron steel skid plates, race-inspired, laser-engraved 18-inch AEV Salta wheels in gloss back finish (with a recessed valve system for added protection from rocks on the trail) and 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires.

Naturally, the AEV Edition boasts improved off-road stats when compared to the Sierra 1500 AT4X. Among others, the front approach angle increases by more than 27 percent to 32.5 degrees, while ground clearance improves to 11.2 inches. The fantastic Multimatic DSSV shocks, locking differentials and two-speed transfer case are the same.

The 2023 Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Edition requires a premium of $7,995, pushing the price to $109,542 including freight, PDI and other dealer fees. You probably don’t need such a monster truck, but if you can afford it, you do whatever you want.

By the way, a Ram 1500 TRX will cost you at least $111,290, while the Ford F-150 Raptor and Raptor R retail from $107,670 and a whopping $148,400, respectively. Two of those three are just ludicrous propositions with 700 horsepower and more. Of course, you only live once.