GMC Sierra 1500 AT4, AT4X, AT4X AEV: what’s the difference?

German car manufacturers are winning with alphanumeric combinations to designate their different models, but GMC not to be outdone either. Its flagship product, a full-size pickup truck Sierra 1500it is now available in three versions for customers who are looking for toughness and love to drive off-road: AT4, AT4X and AT4X AEV.

What do all these letters mean? Let’s try to see things more clearly by focusing on the main features.

Sierra 1500 AT4

Photo: GMC

The AT4 name has replaced the old All Terrain since the arrival of the new generation for the 2019 model year now offering an AT4 version with all its vehicles.

In the case of the Sierra 1500, the AT4 version is placed above the SLT and goes further than the simple X31 off-road package offered by the latter. It raises the suspension two inches and the Rancho monotube shocks are better suited for rough terrain. Protective plates are added under the body, which is available in a short or regular design, and tow hooks are attached to the front bumper. The tires are Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac designed for muddy terrain.

The mechanical, four-wheel drive system includes a two-speed AutoTrac transfer case and an automatic locking rear differential. You can choose between a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbodiesel (305 hp, 495 lb-ft) and a 6.2-liter V8 gas (420 hp, 460 lb-ft), each with 10 automatic transmissions. The first is interesting because of its great torque available at low revs.

The 2023 Sierra 1500 AT4 starts at $83,597, including freight and prep.

Sierra 1500 AT4X

Same with Chevrolet Silverado ZR2l’AT4X it raises the skill bar and is more equipped and refined than the AT4, but offers fewer options. For example, you can only have it with a short bed and a 6.2-liter V8.

We recognize this Sierra from the front by its distinctive grille with dark nickel trim, but especially its forged steel bumper that can carry a winch as well as its forged boron steel skid plate (3.5 times stronger than steel). usually). Goodyear tires change to the Wrangler Territory model in a 33-inch size. Ground clearance remains the same, however approach, ramps and exit angles are better.

The chassis and settings are also specially designed for off-road driving. The suspension features Multimatic’s DSSV shock absorbers, a model in the field, which combines incredible off-road performance with a good level of comfort on the road – especially since the 16-way electrically adjustable front seats include performance massage! There are also specially tuned springs to maximize travel for the front and rear suspension.

Additionally, the front and rear differentials are electronically locked. Let’s not forget the off-road mode, suitable for low-speed off-road driving. It provides greater control of the vehicle and allows one-pedal driving, allowing rock passages to be negotiated using only the accelerator.

The 2023 Sierra 1500 AT4X starts at $101,547, including freight and PDI, a difference of about $18,000 compared to the AT4. Think about it.

Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV

Finally, the pinnacle of off-road driving is found inside version of AEV of Sierra 1500 AT4X, which corresponds to Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Bison. Manufactured by specialist American Expedition Vehicles, it uses a unique grille and front, gloss black door handles and black tailgate interior, not to mention AEV logos all over. Side steps or lower body guards can be added as an option.

Then we get AEV-branded steel bumpers with solid hooks (the one at the front can also take a winch), no less than five boron steel skid plates under the car as well as unique AEV Salta 18-inch carved, running wheels. – impulsive. The same 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory tires are on the menu.

Naturally, the off-road capability of the Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV is improved over the AT4X model. Among other things, the approach angle increases to 32.5 degrees and ground clearance to 11.2 inches. The excellent Multimatic DSSV shock absorbers are back, as are the locking differentials.

The Sierra 1500 AT4X AEV Edition requires an additional $7,995 for a base bill of $109,542, including freight and PDI. As they say, do you really need it? Probably not, but it’s your money, after all.

For informational purposes only, car Ram 1500 TRX currently starts at $111,290, time Ford F-150 Raptor and Raptor R have base prices of $107,670 and, get this, $148,400. It must be said that two of the three defend the surplus and produce at least 700 horsepower. There, you have been warned!