Since the pandemic swept through the U.S. two years ago, interest in trucks, especially trucks capable of being used for outdoor recreation or off-road travel has grown, and truck builders are paying attention.
Many truck buyers use their vehicles for work, to earn money from odds job or for do-it-yourself projects. But the younger buyers truck builders want to impress are looking for a vehicle with off-road capability and new products are coming as the truck wars intensify.
GMC recently offered a glimpse the next-generation Canyon midsize truck, confirming the introduction of the AT4X trim to the Canyon line-up.
The Canyon will become the second vehicle in GMC’s portfolio — the full-size Sierra being first — to adopt the AT4X trim — GMC’s off-road optimized performance trim that offers serious capability and uncompromising refinements, according to GMC, which is feeling the heat from competitors such as the popular Toyota Tacoma TRD, Ford Ranger and even the Jeep Gladiator.
The current generation of the GMC first appeared in 2014 and the plant outside St. Louis where it is built has been busy ever since, according to GM.
Competition creates impetus for new trim level
GMC, noting the increasing challenges from Toyota, Ford, Jeep and the long-rumored mid-sized trucks from Ram as well as new SUVs and crossover optimized for off-road travel, has upgraded the mid-size Canyon to include the AT4 trim and an off-road performance package that adds a 1-inch suspension leveling kit, off-road rocker panel protection, and front and mid skid plates.
GMC revealed the Canyon AT4X concept last summer with several off-roading and overlanding accessories, which built off the capability of Canyon AT4, the concept further elevates Canyon’s off-road credibility by showing how it could be customized for overlanding enthusiast.
“We wanted to showcase GMC Canyon with this concept and punctuate GMC’s commitment to premium, off-road capable vehicles. Consumer reaction to this concept’s design will help us further serve the growing market of buyers leading authentic outdoor lifestyles,” said Buick and GMC Global Vice President Duncan Aldred at the time.
The next-generation Canyon AT4X now signals the next step for GMC’s mid-size truck. The teaser offers a glimpse of the Canyon AT4X’s badging, rocker protectors and 17-inch bead lock-capable wheels. The AT4X trim, which GMC says offers peak in premium off-roading performance, first appeared on the 2022 GMC Sierra and extended the “off-road optimized evolution” of GMC’s increasingly popular AT4 sub-brand, according to GM.