The Sierra 1500 AT4 isn’t the plushest half-ton pickup that GMC makes. That title goes to the Denali trim level, but the AT4 blends all the creature comforts, luxuries, and off-road goodies that one would ever need.
Andre Smirnov from The Fast Lane had the opportunity to check out this truck on a road trip to the Rocky Mountains with his family, and there are a lot of things he liked about the AT4. First of all, the crew cab interior with leather seats is more than adequately spacious, while the bed is large enough for skis and sleds. Secondly, the MultiPro six-function tailgate that comes standard “is really great for changing into ski boots or snowboard boots.”
Over the course of more than 400 miles (643 km) in freezing weather, the light-duty pickup didn’t skip a beat thanks to Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac mud-terrain rubber boots. “I’ve been pretty happy driving through the mountain and back,” said Andre, “and this truck made this family trip enjoyable.”
Also described as comfortable and quiet, the AT4 in the following video happens to be the most efficient version available thanks to the straight-six turbo diesel engine option. The 3.0-liter Duramax is more affordable than the 6.2-liter V8, and over the course of 421 miles (677 km), the trip computer has averaged 24.4 miles for every gallon (9.6 liters per 100 kilometers). At the pump, however, the real-world fuel economy is actually better at 25.3 MPG (9.3 liters per 100 kilometers).
Curious about the sticker price of this particular truck? According to Andre, you’ll have to shell out $64,850 for a similar specification, which is top dollar for a half-ton pickup by all accounts. The most affordable AT4 available right now is the crew cab with the short box and 5.3-liter V8 at $55,995, excluding freight, dealer fees, and optional equipment.
As to what makes the AT4 the most capable Sierra 1500 off the beaten path, the 2.0-inch suspension lift and two-speed transfer case are only two of the highlights. Rancho monotube shocks and skid plates, recovery hooks, Traction Select System with Off-Road Mode, and an automatic locking rear differential also need to be mentioned, along with all-weather floor liners.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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