How the GMC Canyon AT4 & AT4X Trims are Made for Off-Road Adventure in Colorado

If you’ve been looking at GMC trucks for sale, you’ve probably encountered the Canyon AT4 or the Canyon AT4X. Both are popular among GMC truck enthusiasts for their durability and off-road abilities. Driving a truck can be fun, and owning one is often a practical decision for those who need hauling and towing power for a variety of activities, including working on construction sites, camping and hiking, driving to an appointment for your small business with all the gear stowed in the truck bed, and so forth. This is why many people end up seeking out the GMC lineup; they can help with multiple tasks, they’re reliable, and they have enough comfort and convenience features to make every drive a great one.

However, what you may be wondering as you’re looking at concerns the differences between models. How do you know which one will work best for you? Are there differences in the powertrain, the exterior, or the interior features? Do they make that much of a difference? Take the GMC Canyon AT4 and the GMC Canyon AT4X – why are there two separate models? Is one better than the other? How does each of them add to your life, and which one will you ultimately choose? Let’s take a closer look at these exceptional pickups.

The History of the Canyon AT4 and AT4X

Though the GMC Canyon has been around since 2004, and the Canyon AT4 debuted in 2021, it wasn’t until 2023 that the AT4X appeared on the scene. The GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup capable of towing up to 7,700 lbs. It was primarily built for drivers who wanted a towing beast in a smaller package than a heavy-duty or full-size pickup. However, as more and more drivers became interested in off-roading, vehicles other than Jeeps joined the party – including the GMC Canyon. In 2023, the GMC Canyon was fully redesigned, upgrading its off-road options, and from all appearances, the AT4 and AT4X remain incredibly popular trims.

The AT4 and AT4X were built to appeal to off-roading enthusiasts, but depending on which one you get, slight variations exist. It’s good to know the history of a vehicle and the decisions behind its creation. That way, you know what to look for and which one is better suited for your lifestyle. If you’re curious about the AT4 and AT4X, read on below to find out what standard equipment is included for both midsize pickups and which equipment is special to one or the other. All of this information will go into helping you decide on which one to purchase.

Standard Equipment for the AT4 and AT4X

The 2023 GMC Canyon AT4 and AT4X may be different trim levels, but they do come with some with some commonalities in their equipment. For example, both the AT4 and AT4X come with a 2.7L turbo high-output engine and an eight-speed transmission. The 2.7L turbo is a powerful engine, and partially why the Canyon has such impressive towing numbers. Both are also equipped with an 11.3-inch diagonal infotainment system that has Google built-in – meaning you can navigate, keep up with the news and weather forecast, and listen to the radio, podcasts, and audiobooks with ease.

Both are also equipped with the Canyon Pro Safety package, which is made up of the following safety features: Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, IntelliBeam, Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and a Following Distance Indicator. Other similarities include a Drive Mode Selector, three years of the OnStar Connected Services Plan, a 12V power outlet and 120V power outlet, and carpeted floor covering. Both the AT4 and AT4X are well equipped to go off-roading with you at the first opportunity, but there are some key differences that might tip one higher than the other on your scale.

Key Differences

While they share many similarities, some key differences exist between the Canyon AT4 and AT4X. Knowing these differences will help you choose the vehicle that works best for you. The differences between the AT4 and AT4X can be relegated to the following categories: Trailering, Mechanical, Interior, and Exterior. The AT4 is equipped with a 170-amp alternator, while the AT4X is not – it comes with a 220-amp alternator instead. The AT4 is also equipped with an Automatic Locking Rear Differential, while the AT4X comes with a Driver-Selectable Full-Locking Rear Differential. Lift kits for each are also different, with the AT4 receiving a 2-inch off-road suspension factory lift, while the AT4X has a 3-inch off-road suspension factory lift.

When it comes to the interior and exterior differences between the AT4 and AT4X, you can expect the following: the AT4 comes equipped with 18-inch Dark Grey machined finish aluminum wheels, while the AT4X comes with 17-inch Black High Gloss machined finish aluminum wheels. The AT4 has a corner step rear bumper, while the AT4X does not. The AT4 has an 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Center, but the AT4X has an 11-inch Driver Information Center. As far as trailering goes, the AT4X is equipped with an integrated trailer brake controller, while that particular feature is only listed as “Available” for the AT4.

Is One Model Better Than the Other?

Depending on what you want out of your GMC truck, you may prefer one over the other. You may want the AT4X because it has a bigger alternator or because the AT4 comes with bigger wheels. You may want a smaller driver information center, or you might decide that you don’t need the integrated trailer brake controller. If you’re having difficulties making up your mind, you can always visit our dealership and ask to test drive both before making your final decision. Our team will be happy to show you everything this off-road-ready pickup has to offer.

When it comes down to it, neither the GMC Canyon AT4 or the GMC Canyon AT4X is a better vehicle. One is more suited to off-roading, and the other can do off-roading but is a little more suited to haul and tow should you need those capabilities. It really all depends on what type of use you have in mind for your GMC Canyon. This is why it’s so important to compare and contrast before making your final decision. You don’t want to get one and then realize you need the other one. Take your time, figure out what you really need, and then go from there.

Check Out the GMC Canyon AT4 and AT4X Today

If you’ve been looking for GMC Canyon trucks for sale, you know that there are plenty of standard and available features to be considered. You may want to spend some time thinking about which features are most important to you, which ones you might want to upgrade over time, and how often you will use those particular features. It’s always helpful to speak to someone about the models so that you see a clear contrast and can make the final decision for yourself. You won’t regret taking your time to communicate your needs and wants and take that exciting test drive.

When you’re ready, visit us here at The Faricy Boys Automotive and ask about the GMC Canyon AT4 and AT4X. You’ll be able to test out plenty of features, hear about its hauling and towing capabilities, and other important information. With all of the information you receive, you’ll be able to differentiate between the AT4 and AT4X and figure out which one you want to take home. We can also help you customize your model with our expertly-trained mechanics so that if you see something you want that isn’t standard or regularly available, you can make an appointment for an upgrade or installation of the things that will enhance your driving experience. Come in today and see how these two models can enhance your adventures on and off the pavement.