Canyon AT4 Versus AT4X Versus AT4X AEV Edition: What Are the Differences?

There was a time when 4×4 pickup trucks were quite rare. They appeared after Dodge introduced the Power Wagon during World War II. An aftermarket company modified 4×4 trucks for Chevrolet in 1951, GMC launched its first 4×4 in 1956, and Ford followed suit in 1959. Even then, 4×4 trucks remained uncommon until the 1980s, when they began to be regularly available. Today, about 60% of pickup truck sales are 4×4 models.  

GMC’s mid-size Canyon offers 4×4 drivetrains across all trim levels, but the model lineup also includes three off-road-focused variants with varying degrees of intensity: the AT4, followed by the AT4X, and finally, the AT4X AEV Edition. If you assume that a longer name signifies more hardcore off-road capability, you would be correct, but Sharp Automotive wants to provide you with a few more details. 

AT4 

A Canyon Elevation 4×4 resembles its 4×2 counterpart. Step up to the AT4, and you’ll immediately notice the 18-inch Dark Gray machined aluminum wheels outfitted with all-terrain tires and red recovery hooks. Those with sharper eyes will also catch the standard LED fog lamps, Multi-stow locking tailgate, and 120-volt bed-mounted power outlet—although these features are optionally available on the 4×4 Elevation. 

Mechanical upgrades to the AT4 feature an Autotrac® two-speed transfer case with push-button controls, along with hill descent control. There are also cabin enhancements that may not improve off-road capabilities but contribute to a more enjoyable truck experience, including: 

• Eight-way power driver seat adjuster 
• Dual-zone automatic climate control 
• Remote Start 
• Heated front seats and CoreTec seating surfaces 
• Driver and front passenger visors with illuminated mirrors 
• Inside rearview auto-dimming mirror 
• Interior courtesy dual reading lights 
• Manual tilt and telescoping steering column 
• Rear USB ports 

AT4X 

Technically, the AT4X isn’t a distinct trim level, but rather an extensive package that is available for the AT4. The most visually striking aspect of this package is a three-inch lift. Since off-roading benefits from larger sidewalls, the AT4 Package features 17-inch wheels with a black machined finish and mud-terrain (MT) tires. Behind the tires, you’ll find Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, which possess an almost miraculous ability to handle off-road abuse while providing a smooth ride home. The drivetrain offers electronic, driver-selectable full-locking front and rear differentials.  

The standard trailering package includes an in-vehicle trailering app. Additionally, you get front- and rear-facing underbody cameras with washers to view areas not visible from the driver’s seat. Other functional improvements include a spray-on bed liner, off-road rocker protectors, and all-weather floor mats for the cabin. Visual enhancements include sporty upper body window moldings. The Obsidian Rush interior features perforated leather-appointed front seats and red seatbelts.  

The AT4X Package also requires the inclusion of Technology Plus and AT4 Premium package key features, including: 

• Adaptive Cruise Control 
• Rear Pedestrian Alert 
• HD Surround Vision 
• Multicolor 6.3-inch Diagonal Head-Up Display 
• Sunroof 
• Bose® Sound System 
• Driver position memory 
• Six-way front passenger seat 
• Wireless charging 
• Heated steering wheel 
• Ventilated driver and front passenger seats 

While the AT4X Package costs $6,980 on its own, combining it with the other two required packages adds an extra $11,425 compared to the AT4. 

AT4X AEV® Edition 

The AT4X AEV® Edition is another exclusive package for the AT4. It builds upon the AT4X Package by adding several off-road features designed and manufactured by off-road aftermarket specialist American Expedition Vehicles (AEV®). The most notable features include:  

• AEV® stamped-steel front bumper which increases the approach angle and is winch-mount ready. 
• AEV® stamped-steel rear bumper which increases the departure angle and includes heavy-duty cast recovery points. 
• AEV® skid plates for the front and rear differentials, transfer cases, and fuel tanks. 
• 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels with laser etching and AEV center caps. 
• 35-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires. 

To reach this level, you have added four robust option packages, totaling $19,735 over the AT4. In return, you receive the most off-road capable mid-size truck ever produced by a factory. It’s also important to note that as the tires increase in size and the components become more heavy-duty, fuel efficiency will decline. Therefore, you should have a clear understanding of the type of off-roading you intend to pursue before choosing either the AT4X or the AT4X AEV Edition packages.  

Whatever your off-roading needs, the Canyon has you covered. We welcome you to visit Sharp Automotive to shop and determine which Canyon 4×4 configuration best suits you. If the AT4 with the appropriate packages is not in our inventory, our sales professionals can locate one for you.