If you are shopping for a premium off-road truck, GMC offers two of the best options on the market: the Sierra 1500 AT4 and the top-tier Sierra 1500 AT4X.
At a glance, these trucks look remarkably similar. They both feature aggressive stances, factory lifts, and red tow hooks. However, the price difference between them is significant, leading many buyers to ask: Is the upgrade to the AT4X actually worth it?
Below, we break down the similarities, the mechanical differences, and the luxury upgrades to help you decide which off-road warrior belongs in your driveway.
The Similarities: Visuals and Basics
Before diving into what sets them apart, it is important to know what they share. Whether you choose the AT4 or the AT4X, you are getting a highly capable 4WD truck with the following standard features:
-
2-Inch Factory Lift: Both trucks ride higher than a standard Sierra.
-
Rear Suspension Layout: Both utilize a leaf spring rear suspension setup (the AT4X does not use a multi-link rear end like some competitors).
-
Exterior Styling: Painted-to-match bumpers, plastic wheel arches, and red tow hooks are found on both. The only major visual giveaway is the grille finish—the AT4X sports a darker "bronze tint coat."
-
Running Boards: Neither truck comes with power running boards from the factory; both feature fixed boards.
The Major Differences: Where Your Money Goes
While the AT4 is a "premium" off-roader, the AT4X is a "luxury" off-roader designed to compete with the likes of the Ford Raptor and Ram TRX. Here is what separates them.
1. Suspension: Rancho vs. Multimatic DSSV
This is the single biggest mechanical difference.
-
The AT4 comes with upgraded Rancho Monotube shocks. These are tuned for off-road use and are a step up from the twin-tube shocks found on the Z71 or Elevation packages.
-
The AT4X features Multimatic DSSV (Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve) dampers. These are true racing-grade shocks similar to those used on the Camaro ZL1 and even some Ferraris. They offer incredible on-road comfort and superior off-road control. As noted in the review, the DSSV shocks "eat the Rancho's lunch" when it comes to ride quality.
2. Differentials
-
AT4: Features a standard automatic locking rear differential.
-
AT4X: Comes equipped with electronic front and rear locking differentials. This allows for maximum traction in extreme rock-crawling scenarios, a feature the standard AT4 lacks.
3. Interior Luxury & Amenities
The AT4 is nice (comparable to a standard Denali), but the AT4X pushes into ultra-luxury territory.
-
Seats: The AT4X features full-grain leather seats with white piping and—the crowd favorite—16-way power massage seats.
-
Audio: The AT4X includes a premium Bose sound system and a Kicker audio system built directly into the MultiPro tailgate (often an option on the AT4).
-
Materials: The AT4X adds a suede headliner and upgraded touchpoints throughout the cabin.
-
Tech: While features like the Heads-Up Display and Rear Camera Mirror are available options on the AT4, they come standard on the AT4X.
Practicality: Engines and Bed Lengths
For many buyers, the decision comes down to how the truck will be used for work versus play.
Bed Configurations
-
AT4: Available with a Short Bed (5.5 ft) or a Standard Bed (6.5 ft).
-
AT4X: Only available with the Short Bed (5.5 ft).
-
Buying Advice: If you need a standard bed for hauling construction materials or work equipment, you have to stick with the AT4.
Engine Options
-
AT4: You have three choices: the 5.3L V8, the 6.2L V8, or the popular 3.0L Duramax Diesel.
-
AT4X:
-
2022 Models: Only available with the 6.2L V8.
-
2024+ Models: GMC fixed this complaint and now offers the 3.0L Duramax Diesel on the AT4X as well.
-
The Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the GMC Sierra AT4 if: You need a truck that balances work and play. If you need the 6.5-foot bed for hauling, or if you want the diesel engine in a pre-2024 model, the AT4 is the practical choice. It offers 90% of the look and capability for a lower price point.
Buy the GMC Sierra AT4X if: You want the ultimate "pavement princess" or a dedicated trail rig. If you prioritize ride quality (thanks to those DSSV shocks) and luxury comfort (massage seats), the AT4X is arguably the nicest driving pickup on the road today.
Watch the full comparison and walk-around here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjnpsfGm7Q8