AT4 or AT4X – What’s the difference?

2022 Sierra AT4X
Compare/contrast – You choose!
When it comes to trim levels for the ever-popular GMC lineup, each embodies a wide array of off-road features suitable for the growing needs of today’s drivers! Introducing the AT4 and AT4X, both designed for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, but each different in many ways. Take a moment to compare and contrast in determining what suits you best! See what each has in store!
Here’s more….
The background/comparables!
When it comes to the choice between the AT4 and AT4X, there is much to consider, but the bottom line typically speaks to the budget and driving needs of today’s motorists. Those opting for light to medium-duty off-roading would find their needs matched with the AT4, while those desiring extreme adventures would be better suited with the AT4X. That is because this trim level excels when it comes to climbing rocks, negotiating water crossings and basically handling any and all road challenges. Also with this trim level comes a more upscale cabin, featuring richer accents.
With these perks, though, comes a higher price tag, so those seeking practicality in purchase cost, may instead opt for the AT4.
The GMC SUVs that come with AT4 packages include the following: the compact Terrain, midsize Acadia, and full-size Yukon. Absent from these models is the AT4X trim. However, the three pickups in the GMC lineup, which are the midsize Canyon, full-size Sierra 1500 and heavy-duty Sierra HD, come with both the AT4 and the ATX4 variants. In short, the only means of attaining the ATX4 package is to purchase a GMC truck.
Within these trims are key features linked to the particular model. With the AT4, those desiring impressive performance and refinement of a GMC SUV or truck with added off-road capability, you are in luck. Positioned between the SLT or Elevation and Denali models, the entirety of the AT4 lineup is equipped with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. They also gain a variety of exterior features that allow for a more rugged appearance, boasting skid plates, hill-descent control, larger wheels and all- or mud-terrain tires. The rugged look is also made clear in an AT4-specific grille and black-chrome accents. Those who opt for AT4 trucks gain red tow hooks as well as a Jet Black interior complete with Kalahari accents. Some models also have such features as an off–road-tuned suspension, 2-inch lift, two-speed transfer case, locking rear differential and improved approach angle.
The GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 is considered the ultimate pickup on those off-beaten paths, featuring an 11.1-inch ground clearance, up to 9,000 pounds of towing capacity and a multitude of safety and convenience features. In comparison with the bold and durable style of this model,
with its grill standing clear above a sturdy bumper and a rectangular and well-constructed frame, the Sierra 1500 AT4X adds an AEV bumper to its many stable features.
In comparing options and interior features, the Sierra 1500 AT4 comes standard with plenty of convenient options like the in-vehicle trailering app, keyless open and start, a ventilated driver’s seat, heated rear seats, an HD Surround Vision Camera, dual-zone automatic climate control and much more.

2022 Sierra AT4X
Taking it another step up, the AT4X trim adds Bed View Camera, head-up display, Universal Home Remote and a Bose Premium Series 12-speaker sound system. This model also boasts leather seats, which happen to offer a 16-way power, perfect for a massage on trails or one’s daily commute. There is also a ventilated driver seat!
While clearly the AT4X leads when it comes to off-roading, due to its full-locking front and rear differential, both trim levels are on par when it comes to performance. They share engine options (the 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel) and the same amount of cargo bed volume. The AT4 has a higher towing capacity, however, compared to the AT4X.
Those extreme off-roaders will relish in the capabilities and key features of the GMC AT4X vehicles, more specialized than others and more suited for off-roaders than the AT4. And while their specific upgrades differ by model, all of them are fitted with AT4X-exclusive Multimatic DSSV dampers, which enable them to deliver a more comfortable and controlled ride over challenging terrain. They also feature Obsidian Rush interior and luxurious leather seats.
The AT4X GMC Canyon offers in terms of power an off-road optimized TurboMax engine which delivers an impressive 430 lb-ft of torque, considered class leading for a standard gasoline engine. This, combined with a 3-inch lift, an ultra-wide 66.3–inch track width, a two-speed transfer case, and front and rear electronic locking differentials, makes the pickup the most off-road-capable Canyon to date.
In carrying forth this off-road capability, the AT4X GMC Sierra stands out from the AT4X Canyon due to its American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) stamped-steel front bumper with winch capability and AEV stamped-steel front approach skid plate. It is presented with an impressive ground clearance of 11.1 inches, which helps in clearing off-road obstacles, and also features Off-Road and Terrain driving modes, front and rear electronic locking differentials and a 32-inch all-terrain Goodyear DuraTrac tires.
The AT4X GMC Sierra HD is a high achiever on the toughest trails due to its 11.6 inches of ground clearance, a 1.5-inch suspension lift, a 31.6-inch degree approach angle and a 25.7-inch degree departure angle. This model is also presented with 35-inch Goodyear Territory MT off-road tires and a rear electronic locking differential.
While the AT4 and AT4 X share some things in common, the AT4X takes the lead in terms of off-roading, brought forth through the innovative Multimatic dampers, with most of these models also fitted with driver-selectable front and rear electronic locking differentials. Those help to
maintain proper traction by ensuring that both wheels spin together no matter how much resistance there is.
Both models also feature key safety measures, including Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking and Safety Alert Seat systems by default. Buyers also have the ability to connect to OnStar Basics for remote services, including Automatic Crash Response, which offers immediate aid in an emergency.
In addition to the off-road technologies within both of these trim levels, some of both the AT4 and AT4X models also feature advanced technologies that serve to make driving and towing easier and safer both when on and off the open road. One such feature is the ProGrade Trailering System, a suite of intelligent trailering assistance technologies that serve to streamline the hitching and towing process and improve confidence while trailering. There is also built-in Google compatibility, allowing drivers access to Google Maps, Google Assistant and more through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
While much is different between the AT4 and AT4X trim levels, there are also many things they share. All of this information should play a factor in your decision making, so it is important to consider. Off-roaders and extreme off-roaders have different needs, all of which are met within these two trim offerings. Compare, contrast then you choose! Take a test drive, and reserve yours today!
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