2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X Video, Review, And Pricing

By: Joshua Lee
February 21, 2023

GMC introduced its first AT4 branded vehicle with the Sierra 1500 back in 2019. If you want a vehicle that can go off-road, the AT4 trim is the one to go with. Over the years, this trim level has now become available in the entire lineup, and we even reviewed one last year, the GMC Terrain AT4. The Sierra 1500 AT4 looks upscale and isn’t afraid to tackle rough obstacles, but GMC has another thing in store for us.

For the week, GMC has let us borrow their 2022 Sierra 1500 AT4X. Is it a better truck by adding an extra letter? For starters, the AT4X is equipped with a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing a healthy 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque at 4100 RPM. It feels incredibly smooth to drive, and acceleration is quick; however, if you wanted something a little rowdier, you might want to check out the RAM 1500 Rebel G/T. The AT4X has a towing capacity of 8900 pounds (4037 kilograms).

What is the difference between the AT4 and the AT4X? Both trucks have a 2″ factory lift with off-road suspension, a 2-speed Autotrac transfer case, 3.23 rear axle ratio, and skid plates. The Rancho monotube shocks are replaced with Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers in the AT4X, which provide excellent on- and off-road comfort, increased suspension travel, and front and rear e-locking differentials. During our week with the AT4X, we’ve driven the truck on a lot of snowy roads. We quickly selected 4Hi and off-road mode, in which the truck showed no signs of struggle as it powered through.

Our Dynamic Blue Metallic Sierra 1500 AT4X Crew Cab is fitted with 18-inch gloss black aluminium wheels wearing LT275/65R18C 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires. With its refresh for 2022, the Sierra 1500 looks larger and wider with its new grille design and updated split-C daytime running lights. We also love the dark nickel exterior accents. The AT4X comes standard with the MultiPro tailgate, which has six different functions, including acting as a work surface, a load stop, or providing easy access into the bed. It even has a Kicker audio system for entertaining..

A high-performance truck needs an impressive interior to match. The refresh also comes with a luxurious interior updated with a 12.3″ driver’s display, a 13.4″ GMC Premium Infotainment system with Google built-in, and a 15″ multi-colour heads-up display. You may think it’s overwhelming to have a little over 40 inches of combined displays, but all three screens are very easy to configure and read. The Obsidian Rush interior is upscale with full-grain leather, heated and ventilated 16-way power front bucket seats with massage functions, authentic Vanta ash wood trim, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium Series with Centerpoint surround sound system. The ride is quiet for a raised truck, and manoeuvring around is a breeze with standard parking sensors, HD Surround Vision with various trailer, bed, and hitch views, and a rear camera mirror so you’ll always get an unobstructed view out back.

As mentioned earlier, the MultiPro tailgate is extremely useful when loading cargo into the bed of this truck. It is heavy to close back up if the inner gate is folded down, but it is robust since it can hold up to 375 lbs (170 kilograms) when you convert it to a full-width step. There are also useful features such as the CornerStep rear bumper for quick access in and out of the bed, optional off-road high clearance side steps, and rear seatback and under-seat storage.

Fuel economy ratings for the Sierra 1500 AT4X are 16.5L/100KM city and 13.2L/100KM highway. We managed to get 14.8L/100KM and filled the 91L tank with premium gas at the end of our test. There are eight trims and four engine options to choose from when picking out your Sierra. Our Sierra AT4X has a price of $91,473 with taxes and delivery included.

The AT4 would be the one to go for if you want some off-road credibility and the same infotainment and technology, but the GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X provides something more unique. While most of us won’t be tackling off-road routes often, the AT4X is quite the luxury cruiser on pavement. Unless you’re driving in rough terrain every day, we feel that this truck isn’t worth it for a daily driver. The technology and upgraded off-road capabilities are impressive, but we feel that you won’t be utilizing them as much as you would expect. It’s the refinement that should be appreciated; GMC has packed this truck with so many features that it’s hard to find fault with it. Nevertheless, the Sierra 1500 AT4X is a rugged premium off roader and will always be a winner in its owner’s eyes.