2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition: Ultimate Off-Road Midsize Truck
The highly anticipated 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition has finally arrived, taking the midsize truck segment by storm with its impressive off-road capabilities and rugged good looks. As a collaboration between GMC and American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is poised to dominate trails and backcountry adventures.
Exterior Design and Off-Road Features
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition boasts a muscular and aggressive exterior that turns heads both on and off the pavement. The truck sits on massive 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires wrapped around 17-inch beadlock-capable AEV Salta wheels, providing exceptional traction and ground clearance. Wider fender flares accommodate the bigger tires and wider track width, giving the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition an imposing stance.
AEV’s expertly crafted front and rear bumpers not only look great but also offer proper recovery points and winch compatibility. Underneath, five high-strength, hot-stamped Boron steel skid plates protect vital components like the radiator, steering rack, transmission, transfer case, fuel tank, and rear differential from damage on the trails. The rock rails from the standard AT4X carry over, providing additional protection.
With an impressive 12.2 inches of ground clearance thanks to the 4.5-inch lift, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is ready to tackle the toughest terrain. A full-size spare tire is mounted in the bed, as the 35-inch spare won’t fit under the truck in the standard location.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition packs a punch with a high-output version of the turbo 2.7L I4 engine, churning out 310 horsepower and an impressive 430 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels through standard front and rear selectable e-lockers.
While the EPA rates the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition at 16 mpg combined, the 21.4-gallon fuel tank provides a maximum range of around 337 miles. Keep in mind that off-road adventures and a heavy foot will likely result in lower fuel economy figures.
The star of the show is the Multimatic DSSV dampers, which provide a magic carpet ride both on and off the pavement. These dampers allow the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition to carve corners on twisty back roads while also soaking up the bumps and ruts of challenging off-road trails.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition offers a single interior option with white inserts, AEV branding on the headrests, and AEV-logoed rubber floor mats. While the white inserts may not be the most practical choice for a dirt-loving truck, they do add a touch of style.
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition comes equipped with an accessory switch kit, making it easy to add lights, a winch, and other electronic accessories. Comfort is a top priority, with heated and ventilated seats that are perfect for both chilly ski trips and hot desert adventures.
On the technology front, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition shines with a bright, configurable heads-up display (HUD), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, and an 11.3-inch infotainment display. These features are not only visually appealing but also user-friendly and intuitive.
Towing and Payload Capacity
While the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition excels in off-road prowess, it does make some compromises in terms of towing and payload capacity. The burly off-road hardware, including the 35-inch spare tire mounted in the bed, limits the truck’s ability to haul and tow heavy loads.
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition has a max towing capacity of 5,500 pounds, which is lower than some competitors in the midsize truck segment. Additionally, the max payload is rated at 1,050 pounds, which may be a limitation for those who need to carry heavy gear or materials.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its many strengths, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition does have a few areas that could be improved upon. The driver’s seat offers snug knee room, although the sides are well-padded, and there is still room to splay your legs a bit. Taller drivers may find getting in and out of the truck a bit awkward due to the lack of a grab handle and the small, slippery top of the slider step.
Rear passenger comfort is acceptable but feels tight, and the white interior may not be the most practical choice for an off-road-focused truck. The truck could also benefit from lower gearing, such as 4.10 ratios, to work better with the large 35-inch tires and provide more engine braking when crawling over obstacles.
Some may find the lack of physical controls for the headlights and the combined turn signal and wiper stalk on the left side of the steering wheel a bit cumbersome. The low-hanging exhaust exit is also a potential vulnerability when navigating technical off-road terrain.
Final Thought
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is a highly capable and stylish midsize truck that is sure to appeal to off-road enthusiasts and those who value a comfortable, tech-laden interior. With its impressive suspension, beefy tires, and protective underbody armor, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is ready to take on the toughest trails right out of the box.
While it may not be the most practical choice for those who prioritize towing and hauling heavy loads, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition more than makes up for it with its exceptional off-road abilities and head-turning good looks. If you’re in the market for a midsize truck that can handle any adventure you throw at it, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition should definitely be on your short list.
