2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Review Highlights

The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV edition is one of the most extreme factory-backed off-road trucks GMC has ever offered, a collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) that takes the already-capable AT4X and pushes it further. Here's what stands out about it, and what to weigh if you're considering one as a daily driver.

First Impressions

In its bold exterior colors, the AT4X AEV stands out from any other midsize truck on the lot. With its massive 35″ tires, 4.5-inch suspension lift, and bed-mounted full-size spare, it has a genuinely menacing off-road stance. The front end is heavily armored with AEV-designed bumpers and skid plates, and a winch-ready mount is built in for backcountry recovery situations.

Under the hood is GM's high-output turbocharged 2.7L I4, making 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The Canyon lineup doesn't offer a V8. The digital gauge cluster and large center touchscreen give the cabin a modern, tech-forward feel with standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

On-Road Manners

Despite its size and off-road hardware, reviewers have generally found the AT4X AEV surprisingly manageable in daily driving. The rearview camera and extra-large mirrors help with parking lot navigation, and road/wind noise is kept reasonably in check for a truck of this size. The multiple drive modes let you toggle between a more relaxed on-road feel and a firmer, trail-focused setup.

The supportive leather-trimmed seats and available heating/ventilation make it comfortable enough for long trips, and towing feels effortless within its rated capacity thanks to the turbo-four's torque and heavy-duty suspension.

Off-Road Capability

This truck is purpose-built for leaving the pavement behind. Its long suspension travel, advanced traction control, front and rear selectable e-lockers, and low-range transfer case are designed to tackle boulder-strewn trails, deep mud, and steep rock-crawling sections that would stop a stock midsize truck. The bed-mounted full-size spare, necessary because the 35-inch tire won't fit under the truck, is a practical touch for backcountry trips, useful for airing down and back up on the trail.

Tech and Convenience

The available premium Bose sound system and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto round out the tech package. The configurable digital gauge cluster can display navigation, off-road metrics (like pitch/roll and tire pressure), or towing stats depending on what you need at the moment.

Standard driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a surround-view camera system make highway driving and tight parking situations noticeably easier for a truck this size, and an available head-up display projects navigation info onto the windshield.

Value and Practicality

The AT4X AEV commands a premium price well above the standard Canyon lineup, reflecting its extensive AEV-specific hardware. Whether that's worth it depends heavily on how much of the off-road capability you'll actually use. For buyers who genuinely go off-pavement often, the factory-backed engineering and warranty coverage (versus a comparable aftermarket build-up) is a real advantage. For buyers who mostly want the look, a lower AT4 trim delivers most of the everyday livability at a lower cost.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV stands out as one of the most capable factory-built off-road midsize trucks available, while remaining reasonably livable as an everyday vehicle thanks to its refined cabin and driver-assist tech. If serious off-roading is a priority and you still need a comfortable daily driver, it's well worth cross-shopping against rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.

FAQ

How's the fuel economy on the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV?

The EPA rates it at 16 mpg combined. Given the 35-inch off-road tires and the truck's weight, that's about what you'd expect for this class of vehicle — real-world mileage will vary with how much off-road driving and towing you do.

What's the longest trail range on a full tank?

With a 21.4-gallon fuel tank, GMC's own figures put the maximum range around 337 miles combined. Actual range on the trail will be lower given the extra load on the engine from low-range crawling, so plan fuel stops accordingly and carry extra if you're heading somewhere remote.

How comfortable are the seats on long drives?

The AT4X AEV's leather-trimmed seats with available heating and ventilation are well regarded for long-distance comfort, with generous adjustability for both driver and passenger.

Can it tow a good sized camper or boat?

GMC rates the AT4X AEV's max towing capacity at 5,500 lbs and max payload at 1,050 lbs, lower than other Canyon trims due to the off-road hardware. Confirm your specific trailer or camper's weight against those published ratings (not a generic midsize-truck number) before towing.

What off-road hardware comes standard on the AT4X AEV?

The AEV package includes the 4.5-inch suspension lift, 35-inch tires on beadlock-capable wheels, AEV front and rear bumpers with recovery points, five underbody skid plates, front and rear selectable e-lockers, and a bed-mounted full-size spare tire carrier.