2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV – review, drive | Road tests

• Auto123 tests the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV.

The GMC Sierra was refreshed in 2022, along with its cousin, the Chevrolet Silverado. The model then benefited from a new front design and several changes inside. In the same year, the off-road version of the AT4X appeared with strong shock absorbers provided by Multimatic, large tires, different bumpers and a number of accessories designed for off-road driving.

GMC didn’t stop there. For 2023, it offers a higher version called AEV (American Transit Vehicle). AEV is based in Detroit and specializes in “performance-oriented aftermarket parts for vehicles intended for recreational off-road driving and adventure travel.” On his website you will find photos of different types, such as modified Jeep Wranglers, pickup trucks with cargo beds, snorkels and winches.

Was GMC going to offer such a crazy variant to its dealers?

GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X 2023 technical sheet

GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV 2023 Model – 8/1

Well no. But we’re still crazy about this Sierra 1500 which is more stable and has a wilder look thanks to the AEV package. The final cost is $7995.

The package includes marked front and rear bumpers paired with fog lights, as well as a redesigned grille with dark nickel accents.

Additionally, there are 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, covering Salta’s unique 18-inch wheels in gloss black. There are also steel skid plates at the front (five in all, for the front axle, transfer case, steering gear, fuel tank and rear differential), as well as a heavy-duty transmission. Another addition includes the presence of the AEV badge.

All this is interesting. That said, with the change of bumpers, the car loses the CornerStep bed access system of other versions. It is replaced by a handle, stored in the body wall.

MultiPro tailgate for GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV 2023 new | Photo: D. Heyman

As for the body, the AEV version is only available as a four-door cab with a 5.8-foot trunk. The MultiPro tailgate is there to extend the bed or act as an access step, which reduces the loss of the CornerStep function.

Interior of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV | Photo: D. Heyman

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Interior – 8/10

There aren’t many changes inside the Sierra with the AEV configuration. There is embroidery on the headboards, leather upholstery, Vanta ash accents, as well as floor mats for all seasons. Otherwise, we have something similar to the AT4X variant.

This means that the delivery is good and the equipment is complete. There are large buttons for the climate system and the horizontal belt and toggle switches at the bottom. Features like instrument cluster with full digital display on 11.3-inch screen, multimedia system on 13.4-inch touchscreen unit, leather-wrapped seats and dashboard with different stitching, as well as T-shaped gear selector , add for good measure. of roominess to the interior.

The 12-speaker Bose sound system is pleasant and the sound is punchy.

The interior is also spacious front and rear, with a cargo floor close by and enough space to store your drinks and work equipment. Indeed, the envelope is slightly closed by that of the Ford F-150 in terms of practicality. However, even though owners often spend a lot of time in their pickup trucks, they should have no problem doing so with the Sierra ATX AEV.

Show drive in 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV | Photo: D. Heyman

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Technology – 8.5/10

There is wireless charging and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The fact that the charging bed is placed in a slightly open area below the center of the center reduces mass, but does little to reduce the heat generated by the charging action.

The rear camera is good and accurate, and the system includes a front- and rear-facing camera that lets you see what’s ahead. Wheel track guides are also visible to facilitate vehicle positioning during off-road driving.

The latest interesting technology is also on board, but outside; This is the Kicker MultiPro sound system. The latter, with a power of 100 W, is air-conditioned and equipped with two speakers, an amplifier and a Bluetooth transmission function. Perfect for streaming your Cowboys Fringants playlist on the job site or while camping.

GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV 2023 | Photo : D. Heyman

Driving 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV – 8/10

As with the body and cabin, only one engine is offered by the AEV version, a 6.2-liter V8 developing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Its power is sent to all four wheels (obviously) via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Unsurprisingly for an off-road pickup like this, there are two electronic locking differentials, a two-speed transfer case, as well as a mode one-pedal off-road driving. The latter manages braking and acceleration, allowing the driver to focus on the direction of the vehicle.

The power arrives nicely, with the obligatory hum reminding us that the performance of the big V8 is available under our right foot. Thanks to the close ratio of the 10-speed automatic transmission, there is enough response to provide generous acceleration at any speed.

The AEV version is more leggy than the regular AT4X and when you add the knobby tires it can be a little wobbly on fast, smooth roads. This is a natural problem for pickup trucks intended for off-road driving, but the real question is whether this “defect” is compensated for by off-road prowess.

Front 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV | Photo: D. Heyman

Basically, yes. The crossing angle is excellent, as are those approaching and exiting (aided by the design of the bumpers). The ride height is slightly higher (about four inches). There are also two different modes of the four-wheel drive system: terrain (which is intended for slow driving off-road) and off-road, for driving fast on gravel.

I spent most of my time in off-road mode. It’s a good compromise. Initially, the normal conditions forced me to make more corrections than I expected, when I was driving on a road that I knew well, under good conditions. Getting out of the Normal made a huge difference, and I immediately felt more confident. I was able to move at a good speed thanks to the steering which was just enough, but with enough play to eliminate the fear during this type of driving (off road).

GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV 2023, shock absorber | Photo: D. Heyman

In addition, the Multimatic shock absorbers have the quality of reducing the impact of potholes and bumps that one encounters, which increases the confidence that one feels while driving.

Single pedal operation works as advertised. The system uses cruise control to balance throttle and gearbox inputs, making steep slopes easier to manage.

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Exterior | Photo: D. Heyman

The last word
The weak behavior of this version of the AEV on gravel shows that it is not the easiest on fast tracks, like a Jeep Gladiator Mohave or an F-150 Raptor would be. This model is aimed at thrill seekers, but not necessarily those who like to attack the hills. Instead, those who consider their car as part of the adventure they are experiencing, on a quiet road where things happen more slowly.

Rear of 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV | Photo: D. Heyman

Competitors of the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV

• – Chevrolet Silverado ZR2
• – Ford F-150 Quake
• – Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
• – Ram 1500 Rebels
• – Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

AEV logo on GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV 2023 | Photo : D. Heyman