Tested: 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV Is a Lot to Live With

The 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition is not just another heavy-duty truck—it’s a bold statement in off-road capability and luxury. Designed for those who demand power, durability, and refinement in equal measure, this truck takes GMC’s already capable Sierra HD to the next level with off-road enhancements, rugged styling, and premium comfort features.

For years, GMC’s AT4 lineup has been synonymous with off-road readiness, but with the introduction of the AT4X trim and AEV (American Expedition Vehicles) collaboration, the brand is pushing the boundaries of what a heavy-duty truck can do. With a factory-installed lift, 35-inch tires, heavy-duty skid plates, and a powerful diesel engine option producing a massive 975 lb-ft of torque, this truck is built to conquer the toughest terrains while maintaining the comfort and technology expected from a modern luxury vehicle.

However, with its massive size, premium price tag, and off-road focus, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV may not be the easiest truck to live with daily. Is it a capable workhorse for off-road enthusiasts, or does its extreme design make it too much for everyday driving? We put this powerhouse to the test to find out.

First Impressions: A Bold and Rugged Design

At first glance, the 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition commands attention with its imposing stance and rugged enhancements. This isn’t just a standard Sierra HD with a few off-road tweaks—it’s a truck purpose-built for adventure, boasting serious off-road credentials while maintaining the premium aesthetic that GMC is known for.

Exterior Styling: Aggressive and Purposeful

The AT4X AEV Edition builds upon the already-capable AT4X trim with distinct design elements that set it apart. The most noticeable change is the factory-installed 1.5-inch suspension lift, which increases both ground clearance and off-road capability. This extra height, combined with 35-inch Goodyear Territory MT tires, gives the truck a commanding presence and makes it clear that it’s ready to tackle any terrain.

At the front, a massive blacked-out grille with GMC’s signature C-shaped LED headlights gives the truck an aggressive look. Below the grille, AEV-branded stamped-steel bumpers enhance both durability and approach angles, allowing the truck to clear obstacles with ease. These bumpers also include integrated recovery points and a front winch capability, making it clear that this truck is built for serious off-roading.

AEV’s Signature Touches

The partnership with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) means that this edition gets heavy-duty off-road armor that separates it from the standard AT4X. The truck features:

Hot-stamped boron steel skid plates covering the underbody to protect vital components (oil pan, transfer case, and fuel tank)

AEV-branded 18-inch Salta wheels, designed for off-road durability

Exclusive badging on the tailgate, bumpers, and interior to signify its special-edition status

These design elements aren’t just for show; they serve a functional purpose in ensuring that the Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition can handle extreme off-road conditions without sacrificing durability.

Size and Road Presence: A Truck That Can’t Be Ignored

One thing that’s immediately obvious is just how massive this truck is. The Sierra HD is already a large vehicle, but with the AEV off-road modifications, it becomes even more imposing. The combination of its high ride height, wide stance, and rugged features gives it an intimidating road presence that few trucks can match.

However, this size also brings challenges—maneuvering in tight city streets or parking lots can be a test of patience, and its height may make it a tight fit for some garages. The bold styling and sheer size mean that the Sierra HD AT4X AEV is not for the faint of heart—it’s a truck that demands attention and requires commitment from its driver.

A Unique Blend of Luxury and Toughness

Despite its rugged nature, GMC hasn’t sacrificed luxury. The Obsidian Rush interior with full-grain leather seats, premium stitching, and AEV-branded headrests gives the cabin an upscale feel, proving that a hardcore off-road truck can still offer first-class comfort.

From the first impression, the 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition clearly means business. It’s a truck that blends extreme off-road capability with a high-end, aggressive design—making it an ideal choice for those who want both performance and presence. But does this aggressive styling translate into real-world usability? Let’s dive deeper into its off-road capabilities and performance.

Off-Road Capability: Built for Adventure

The 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition isn’t just about rugged looks—it’s engineered to perform in some of the harshest off-road conditions. GMC has built on the foundation of the AT4X trim, adding serious off-road upgrades developed in collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV). These enhancements allow the truck to handle challenging terrains while maintaining a smooth ride for everyday use.

Factory-Installed Suspension Lift & Ground Clearance

One of the most significant upgrades in the AT4X AEV Edition is the factory-installed 1.5-inch suspension lift, which increases the truck’s ground clearance to 11.6 inches. This added height gives the truck the ability to clear obstacles that would challenge standard heavy-duty pickups.

Improved Approach, Breakover, and Departure Angles

The off-road geometry of the truck has been optimized to handle steep inclines, rocky trails, and uneven surfaces:

  • Approach angle: 31.6 degreesB
  • reakover angle: Improved with the lifted stanceD
  • eparture angle: 25.7 degrees

These angles ensure that the Sierra HD AT4X AEV can climb over rocks, logs, and deep ruts without scraping the front bumper or undercarriage.

35-Inch Goodyear Territory MT Tires: Maximum Traction

GMC has equipped this truck with 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory Mud-Terrain (MT) tires wrapped around AEV’s 18-inch Salta wheels. These aggressive off-road tires provide excellent traction on loose dirt, sand, mud, and rocky terrain. The larger tires also improve the truck’s ground clearance and help absorb impacts from rough trails.

Additionally, the steel-reinforced wheels are built to withstand heavy loads and off-road abuse. Unlike traditional alloy wheels, these AEV-designed wheels provide extra durability for rugged conditions.

Multimatic DSSV Dampers: Superior Ride Quality On and Off-Road

One of the standout features of the AT4X AEV Edition is its Multimatic DSSV (Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve) dampers. These high-performance dampers, originally developed for racing, are designed to:

  • Provide a smooth and controlled ride on pavement
  • Absorb shocks from uneven off-road terrainM
  • aintain stability when crawling over obstacles

The Multimatic DSSV dampers are a game-changer for heavy-duty trucks, ensuring that even in rough conditions, the ride remains predictable and comfortable—a feature rarely found in large off-road trucks.

Electronic Locking Rear Differential for Maximum Traction

Off-road enthusiasts know the importance of a rear locking differential, and GMC has included one as standard in the AT4X AEV Edition. This feature locks both rear wheels together, ensuring that power is evenly distributed even if one wheel loses traction.

This is particularly useful when:

  • Driving on muddy trails where one wheel might spin freely
  • Climbing steep inclines where traction is uneven
  • Navigating rocky terrain that requires slow, controlled movement

The electronic locking rear differential provides the confidence needed to tackle the toughest trails without getting stuck.

AEV Stamped-Steel Bumpers & Skid Plates: Built for Protection

GMC has reinforced the Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition with AEV-stamped steel front and rear bumpers that are built for durability and function. These heavy-duty bumpers provide:

  • Extra protection against impacts from rocks, logs, and off-road obstacles
  • Better approach and departure angles to prevent scraping
  • Integrated front winch capability (perfect for self-recovery or helping others on the trail)

Additionally, the underbody of the truck is protected by hot-stamped boron steel skid plates, which safeguard essential components such as:

  • Engine oil panT
  • ransfer case
  • Fuel tank

These skid plates ensure that even in the harshest terrain, critical components remain safe from damage.

Off-Road Driving Modes & Trail Tech Features

To further enhance off-road capability, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition comes with several driver-selectable modes:

  • Off-Road Mode: Adjusts throttle response, traction control, and shifting patterns for better off-road performance
  • Terrain Mode: Optimized for slow-speed rock crawling and extreme terrain
  • Hill Descent Control: Automatically controls braking on steep downhill trails for better control

Additionally, GMC offers multiple camera views, including a front underbody camera, which helps drivers navigate tricky obstacles without needing a spotter.

Can It Handle Extreme Conditions?

With these off-road upgrades, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition is built to tackle:

  • Deep mud and sand – Thanks to aggressive tires and a locking differential
  • Steep hills and rocky trails – With high ground clearance and a lifted suspension
  • Heavy payloads in rough terrain – Thanks to a reinforced chassis and off-road-tuned dampers

Final Thoughts: Off-Road Performance Without Compromise

The 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV Edition is more than just a lifted truck with off-road tires—it’s a purpose-built adventure machine. Every feature, from the AEV bumpers and skid plates to the Multimatic DSSV dampers, is designed to deliver exceptional off-road capability without sacrificing ride quality.

Whether you’re tackling extreme trails, hauling gear to remote locations, or just want the most capable Sierra HD ever built, the AT4X AEV Edition proves it’s built for adventure. However, its sheer size and off-road focus mean that it may not be the most practical daily driver—something to consider before making the investment.

Interior Luxury and Comfort: Rugged Meets Refined

While the 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV is built to tackle rough terrain, its cabin offers a stark contrast—embracing luxury, advanced technology, and thoughtful craftsmanship. Designed to blend off-road durability with premium comfort, the interior is as inviting as it is capable.

Premium Materials and Design

Stepping inside, you’re greeted by the Obsidian Rush interior, a signature GMC design featuring full-grain leather seating with intricate contrast stitching. The AT4X AEV Edition further elevates the experience with dark Vanta ash wood trim, creating a refined yet rugged aesthetic. The heated and ventilated front seats ensure comfort in any climate, while the rear seats also come heated, enhancing passenger convenience.

Supreme Comfort: 16-Way Power Seats with Massage

Long drives—whether on the highway or deep into off-road trails—can be exhausting. That’s where the 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functionality come into play. This feature is particularly useful for overlanders and heavy haulers, helping reduce fatigue during extended trips.

Cutting-Edge Infotainment and Connectivity

At the heart of the Sierra HD AT4X AEV’s technology suite is its large infotainment display, seamlessly integrating modern connectivity options:
  • 13.4-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto
  • 12-speaker Bose® Premium Series audio system for an immersive sound experience
  • 15-inch head-up display (HUD) projecting speed, navigation, and off-road data
  • Wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports for seamless device connectivity
Whether navigating off-road trails or handling long highway drives, the intuitive infotainment system ensures that all essential controls and navigation tools are within easy reach.

Quiet Cabin, Built for the Journey

GMC has put significant effort into sound insulation, making the Sierra HD AT4X AEV’s cabin remarkably quiet, even with its rugged off-road tires. Acoustic-laminated glass and active noise cancellation work together to minimize road and wind noise, ensuring a peaceful driving experience—something not always found in heavy-duty trucks.

Balancing Utility with High-End Comfort

Despite its rugged off-road DNA, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV doesn’t compromise on high-end comfort. Whether you're an adventure seeker heading into the wilderness or someone who wants a premium truck for daily driving and heavy hauling, this model delivers a refined cabin experience that rivals even luxury SUVs.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2024 GMC Sierra HD AT4X AEV isn’t just about brute strength—it also brings a suite of advanced technology and safety features designed to enhance driver confidence, convenience, and off-road capability. From cutting-edge driver assistance systems to trail-ready tech, GMC has equipped this truck with the tools to tackle both city streets and rugged terrain.

Infotainment and Connectivity: A Command Center on Wheels

At the heart of the Sierra HD AT4X AEV’s technology package is a 13.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a highly intuitive interface. It seamlessly integrates:
  • Google Built-in (Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play)
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Amazon Alexa compatibility for voice-controlled commands
  • Multi-view camera system for enhanced visibility off-road and while towing
The 12-speaker Bose® Premium Series audio system delivers crisp, high-quality sound, ensuring an immersive experience whether you’re on a long highway cruise or winding through off-road trails.

Advanced Off-Road Tech: Smarter Adventures

Designed for serious off-roaders, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV includes several features to improve control and confidence on unpredictable terrain:
  • Off-Road Driving Modes – Automatically adjusts throttle response, suspension damping, and traction control based on terrain.
  • Front and Rear E-Locking Differentials – Essential for extreme off-roading, providing maximum power to the wheels with the most grip.
  • Underbody Camera Views – Real-time visuals of the terrain under the truck help drivers avoid obstacles.
  • Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist – Maintains a controlled speed on steep descents and prevents rollback on inclines

Driver Assistance and Safety: Big Truck, Big Protection

Even with its massive size, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV is easy to maneuver thanks to a suite of driver assistance features that enhance safety and convenience:
  • Adaptive Cruise Control – Maintains a safe following distance on highways.
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Braking – Helps detect vehicles when reversing, automatically applying brakes if needed.
  • Lane Keep Assist – Alerts the driver if the truck drifts out of its lane and can apply steering assistance.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking – Warns of potential collisions and applies brakes to prevent or mitigate impact.
  • Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Coverage – Extends blind spot monitoring to include a connected trailer.

Trailering Assistance: Confidence in Heavy Hauling

For those who plan to tow trailers, campers, or boats, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV includes:
  • ProGrade™ Trailering System – Provides a checklist for trailer hookups, trailer light tests, and maintenance reminders.
  • Trailer Sway Control – Helps stabilize the truck and trailer in crosswinds or uneven roads.
  • Integrated Trailer Brake Controller – Allows drivers to adjust trailer braking force from the dashboard.
  • Surround View and Transparent Trailer Camera System – Enhances visibility around and even through a trailer.

A Truck That Thinks Ahead

With smart off-road technology, robust safety features, and advanced trailering assistance, the Sierra HD AT4X AEV is as much about intelligence as it is about strength. Whether navigating tight city streets, towing across long distances, or conquering remote trails, it provides the necessary tools to make every drive safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.

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