Are you in the market for a pickup truck that blends rugged off-road capability with an interior that rivals high-end SUVs?
We recently got behind the wheel of the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X for a complete review and test drive. This isn't just another work truck; it’s aimed squarely at buyers who want premium features, advanced technology, and serious trail-ready hardware.
Whether you plan on taking it off-grid or just want the sportiest, most luxurious pavement princess on the block, the AT4X makes a compelling case. Here is our in-depth breakdown of what makes this truck special.
First Impressions: An Escalade-Level Interior
Stepping inside the 2024 Sierra 1500 AT4X, the first thing you notice is how exceptionally clean and upscale the cabin feels. It’s far from gaudy; it’s tasteful. With a black and white color scheme highlighted by subtle red accents, it feels less like a standard pickup and more like a luxury vehicle.
The best way to describe the interior is "Escalade-like." It offers a high-end feel comparable to a Range Rover or a Porsche.
Key Interior Features:
-
Premium Materials: It features a full suede headliner and what GM calls full-grain leather seats—arguably the best leather you can currently get in a GM truck.
-
Massaging Seats: Both front seats feature extensive massaging functions with various settings (roll, knead, wave relief) and lumbar adjustments, making long drives incredibly comfortable.
-
Tech Integration: The massive infotainment screen runs Google built-in. While native navigation requires an OnStar subscription, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
-
Smart Touches: We love the dedicated phone holder/wireless charger placement in the center console and the incredibly useful digital rearview mirror camera.
The "X" Factor: Off-Road Hardware
What separates the standard AT4 from the AT4X? The "X" denotes serious off-road enhancements. While it includes the standard factory 2-inch lift and red recovery hooks, the real magic lies in the suspension and drivetrain.
Multimatic DSSV Shocks: The crown jewel of the AT4X is the Multimatic DSSV dampers. To buy and install these aftermarket would cost upwards of $4,000-$5,000. They provide arguably the best ride quality you can get on a pickup truck today, offering incredible smoothness on the highway without sacrificing off-road performance.
Selectable Lockers: Unlike many competitors that rely on limited-slip differentials, the AT4X gives you true selectable front and rear electronic locking differentials for maximum traction when things get technical.
Performance: The 6.2L V8 and Active Exhaust
While you can get the 3.0L Duramax diesel, our tester came equipped with the fan-favorite 6.2L V8 engine. Putting out 420 horsepower and roughly 460 lb-ft of torque, it is the most fun engine option for this truck. It's snappy, powerful, and makes merging onto highways a blast.
New for 2024 is a standard Active Exhaust system on the 6.2L V8. When you switch the truck into "Sport Mode," baffles in the exhaust open up—similar to a Corvette—giving you a throaty, aggressive V8 growl. Switch back to normal mode, and it quietens right down.
Important Note on the 6.2L V8 Warranty: GM has addressed concerns regarding certain 6.2L V8 engines (2021-2024) with a new program. If you take your truck to a GM dealer for inspection and they confirm the engine is healthy, they will apply a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty to the engine. This provides massive peace of mind for long-term ownership.
The Test Drive: Comfort Meets Capability
Getting the AT4X out on the road reveals its dual personality. Despite having a lift and aggressive mud-terrain tires, the Multimatic shocks make the highway ride incredibly smooth.
It’s unparalleled in comfort, especially when you activate the massaging seats and open the panoramic sunroof and power-sliding rear window for airflow.
Towing and Practicality: The 6.2L AT4X is rated to tow 8,700 lbs. While not class-leading compared to max-tow packages, the Multimatic shocks handle trailer weight exceptionally well, preventing the rear-end "washy" feeling you sometimes get with magnetic ride control systems.
The rear seat offers immense space, easily accommodating adult passengers or bulky rear-facing car seats. The bed features a spray-in liner and the MultiPro tailgate with the built-in Kicker Bluetooth audio system.
The One Downside: If we had to nitpick, the factory Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires are quite noisy on the highway. They are great for off-roading, but if you spend most of your time on pavement, you might find the road hum intrusive.
Final Verdict
The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X is a luxurious beast. It’s perfect for the buyer who wants the rugged, sporty look and genuine off-road capability, but refuses to compromise on interior comfort and high-end features.
It’s an expensive truck, but between the Escalade-level interior, the incredible Multimatic suspension, and the roaring 6.2L V8, it offers a driving experience few other trucks can match.
Watch the full, in-depth video review and test drive here: