2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Was Inevitable and Will be Unstoppable

Following the lead of the larger Sierra 1500 and Sierra HD, GMC’s midsize pickup is now also raising the bar for off-road capability with a new AT4X AEV model.

The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV will slot above the existing AT4 and AT4X models and share most of its features and specs with the recently introduced 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison.

Developed with the help of American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), a Montana-based company specialized in adventure and overlanding, the ultimate Canyon stands out with 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires (including an additional AEV in-bed vertical spare tire mount) and Exclusive AEV beadlock-capable Salta wheels.

The suspension is raised by 1.5 inch (38 mm) over the Canyon AT4X, resulting in a segment-best 12.2 inches of ground clearance. Breakover and departure angles (26.9 degrees and 26 degrees, respectively) are increased, as well, but the approach angle (38.2 degrees) is slightly compromised by the new winch-ready front bumper.

Speaking of which, the heavy-duty AEV stamped-steel bumpers with heavy-duty recovery points are said to provide excellent durability and corrosion resistance. They’re joined by an updated front fascia and larger fender flares, but more importantly five ultra-high strength, hot-stamped boron steel skid plates for optimized underbody protection.

Three standard auxiliary control switches have been added to the truck to enable the integration of off-road and overlanding accessories. Inside, you’ll find an AEV badge embroidered on the front headrests along with all-weather floor liners.

The engine under the hood remains the same, namely a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed autobox and 4WD system featuring a two-speed transfer case. Output is 310 horsepower along with 430 lb-ft. of torque. Since the AT4X AEV is heavier, payload drops from 1,280 lbs to 1,050 lbs, while max towing capacity is down from 6,000 lbs to 5,500 lbs.

Here’s another thing you should know: the available Baja drive mode (exclusive to the Canyon AT4X and AT4X AEV) has been enhanced for 2024 to include a new launch control feature. It learns the driving surface and can even adjust engine speed and torque accordingly to improve subsequent performance on future launches, GMC explains.

Finally, all 2024 Canyons will be able to add new features and software updates over time with the introduction of GM’s new Ultifi Platform. Sounds great.

The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV will be built in Wentzville, Missouri and is expected to be available for customer orders later this year. Pricing has yet to be announced. In addition to the Colorado ZR2 Bison, the most capable Canyon will take on the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Ford Ranger Raptor. Which one do you think can go the farthest and sling the most mud?