by Michael Satterfield - Photos by Lucas Kepner - 07/22/2024
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition has off-road capability and is wrapped in a premium package. Engineered in collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), this pickup combines the ruggedness needed for serious trailblazing with the luxury expected from GMC. Plus, being a midsize truck means it works well in town and on tight off-road trails.
At the heart of the 2024 Canyon AT4X AEV lies a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivering 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This robust powerplant is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a balanced mix of power and efficiency. The truck’s off-road capabilities are enhanced by AEV’s custom suspension system, which includes DSSV dampers for superior ride quality and control over rough terrain.
The AEV package equips the Canyon with Goodyear Wrangler 35-inch tires, significantly boosting its ground clearance and breakover angle. Additionally, advanced off-road components such as hot-stamped boron steel skid plates protect critical underbody elements like the steering gear, transfer case, and fuel tank. These enhancements are crucial for tackling challenging landscapes without compromising the truck’s integrity.
The Canyon AT4X AEV visually stands out with its aggressive stance and functional design elements. Stamped steel front and rear bumpers enhance durability and incorporate chassis-mounted recovery points and integrated fog lights. The front bumper is winch-capable, and an optional ComeUp winch can be dealer-installed for those needing extra recovery capability.
Unique to the AEV Edition are corner skid plates on the rear bumper, which feature replaceable steel caps. This thoughtful design lets owners maintain the truck’s aesthetics by swapping out scratched caps after intense off-road sessions. Plus, it carries a full-size spare tire in the bed for quick access and additional ground clearance. While it adds a rugged look, it obstructs the rearview mirror, forcing reliance on the rearview camera or side mirrors.
Inside, the Canyon AT4X AEV Edition maintains GMC’s reputation for comfort and refinement. The cabin is designed with cushioned knee impact points on the center console and doors, enhancing comfort during long drives. The infotainment system, while generally user-friendly, does have some quirks. Notably, the headlight controls can be found via the touchscreen menu, which can be less intuitive than a traditional switch.
On the highway, the Canyon AT4X AEV Edition exhibits impressive stability for a vehicle with such a high center of gravity and large tires. It easily handles Texas's high-speed rural roads, maintaining a planted feel even at speeds up to 75 mph. However, the large tires slightly hamper acceleration, making the journey to higher speeds feel more laborious than the Chevrolet Colorado Z71 we drove a few weeks ago.
Off-road, the Canyon shines, the DSSV dampers excel in absorbing impacts from uneven trails, while the boron steel skid plates and heavy-duty bumpers provide peace of mind when navigating rocky or muddy paths.
Our test vehicle was priced at $67,990, including destination, making the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition comparable to its cousins, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison and the Ford Ranger Raptor. The Colorado ZR2 Bison, another AEV collaboration, shares many components with the Canyon but differs in shock options and standard features. The Ranger Raptor offers more horsepower but smaller tires, which affects its off-road clearance.
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is a well-rounded midsize truck that marries off-road capability with on-road comfort and luxury. It’s an ideal choice for adventurers who need a vehicle that can handle the toughest trails while still providing a refined driving experience. Though it has some quirks, its overall package makes it a compelling option in the competitive off-road truck market.
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