The Overland Expo Foundation GMC Canyon AT4X Build is Wild
The 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X is a testament to GMC’s commitment to blending rugged off-road capabilities with upscale comfort as well as trying to compete with other super trucks in the mid-sized segment. The Overland Expo Foundation chose the Canyon for the 2024 Ultimate Build and it is exceptionally put together. In an industry where the mid-sized truck segment is blowing up, the GMC Canyon ticks a lot of the boxes that most overland travelers are looking for.
Design and Exterior
From the moment you lay eyes on the 2023 Canyon AT4X, its bold design language stands out. The truck features a high ground clearance, aggressive stance, and distinctive AT4X badging, signaling its off-road prowess. A host of American Expedition Vehicles accessories including the rear bumper, snorkel, skid plates, and fender flares make the already-capable AT4X look and perform the part of an off-road adventure machine.
The bed is designed with functionality in mind, offering a spray-on bedliner, multiple tie-down points, and an available accessory system to accommodate various gear. A Decked drawer system is the base for the bed and houses the bulk of the cooking gear as well as the tent ladder. The Leitner bed system supports storage boxes on each side and a water spout on the driver’s side. On top of the Leitner rack is the Taj Mahal of rooftop tents- the AluCab Gen 3-R Expedition Tent. The tent is exceptionally well built and was very comfortable during our time with the truck.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside the Canyon AT4X, it’s clear that GMC didn’t skimp on luxury. The cabin is an oasis of comfort, with premium materials used throughout. The seats are wrapped in leather, featuring unique AT4X embroidery, and provide excellent support for long journeys. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, add to the truck’s comfort. The automatic heated steering wheel activates when the outdoor temperature is detected, which is a nice touch indeed.
The infotainment system is anchored by an 11.3-inch touchscreen that is both intuitive and responsive. It integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that your favorite apps and navigation tools are always at your fingertips. The OEM Bose sound system is very good and kept us jamming down dirt roads just fine.
A Midland MXT575VP4 Two-Way Radio is conveniently mounted in the center console to provide quality comms for your group. The Zoleo satellite beacon lived in the center console as well, thankfully never needed for a backcountry recovery. Our food stayed cool in the Project X 41 QT Blizzard Box refrigerator without any drama. The dual-entry lid was very handy for accessing the food from the passenger door or from the front seat.
The vehicle electronics are powered by two Battleborn lithium batteries managed by the Redarc Manager Alpha 100. The massive solar panel on the roof of the tent kept the batteries full in even the cloudiest of conditions.
Performance and Off-Road Capability
Under the hood, the Canyon AT4X is powered by a stout 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering an impressive 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The combination of the AEV snorkel and the Magnaflow Overland exhaust makes for a peppy throttle and a delightful sound when the turbo spools up.
The true highlight of the AT4X is its off-road capability. The truck comes equipped with Multimatic DSSV dampers, which provide exceptional control and comfort on rough terrain. The selectable drive modes, including Off-Road, Terrain, and Baja, allow the driver to tailor the truck’s performance to the specific challenges of the landscape. Spoiler alert: if you are looking for tail-sliding, Baja is the driving mode you are looking for.
The advanced 4WD system with electronically locking front and rear differentials further enhances its off-road credentials. The foundation of the AT4X is the addition of 35” BFG KO2s wrapped around Torque Wheels Canyon wheels in black. This setup ensures the Canyon AT4X maintains traction even in the most challenging conditions.
Fuel Economy and Practicality
Given its off-road focus, the 2023 Canyon AT4X delivers respectable fuel economy for its class. During our testing, we managed around 17 miles per gallon on the highway and around 14 on the trail with aired-down tires.. It manages to balance performance and efficiency, making it a practical choice for those who need a capable truck for both daily driving and weekend adventures.
The truck’s towing capacity is also noteworthy, with the ability to haul up to 7,700 pounds. This makes it a versatile option for those who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy equipment. We should mention the wheelbase is not ideal for towing huge loads, which is not a problem with the AT4X, but smaller trucks in general.
The GMC Canyon AT4X is a well-rounded mid-size truck that excels both on and off the road. Its rugged design, luxurious interior, advanced technology, and outstanding off-road capabilities make it a top contender for those who want a vehicle that can do it all. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring remote trails, the Canyon AT4X offers a driving experience that is both thrilling and refined. GMC has truly hit the mark with this truck, catering to the needs of modern adventurers who refuse to compromise on comfort or performance.
If you’re in the market for a mid-size truck that can handle the demands of off-road driving while still providing the amenities of a luxury vehicle, this 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X will be available for auction in October 2024 on Bring-A-Trailer. Bring-A-Trailer donates the listing fees, so 100% of the proceeds from the auction go to benefit The Overland Expo Foundation and it’s commitment to keeping trails open and educating others on overlanding responsibly.
