The 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Seriously Raises the Bar
It’s time to reconsider the GMC Canyon as a serious off-roader in the midsize truck segment. It could be the most capable truck in the segment, but we will have to see what the new Toyota Tacoma does before determining a winner. Anyways, check out how the 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV will raise the bar to brand new heights.
What will come with the 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV?
Well, the 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV comes with a long title and a lot of letters to remember, but it’s worth giving it some undivided attention. GMC shared that it will be the most advanced and most off-road capable pickup truck in the segment.
Unfortunately, the official specs haven’t been released yet. We’ve only seen a few teaser images and clues about the new beast so far. But we won’t have to wait much longer to see what it can do. The Canyon AT4X AEV will debut on July 6, 2023.
We can spot a few American Expedition Vehicle (AEV) upgrades from the latest teaser image, like the integrated winch on the front bumper. It comes right from the factory, and it’s safe to assume that the bumpers are steel stamped.
Also, the undercarriage is protected by more steel skid plates, and the bumpers feature integrated tow hooks. According to Pickup Truck Talk, the truck could ride on unique AEV-branded wheels.
How capable will the Canyon AT4X AEV model be?
The 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV model is expected to build upon the AT4X model with more protection, off-roading equipment, and luxury comfort. It has a 2.7-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with 310 hp and best-in-class 430 lb-ft of torque.
We don’t expect the AT4X AEV model to have extra power. But while the AT4X rides on 17-inch beadlock capable wheels, the AEV could add 18-inch wheels instead that are wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires.
The Canyon AT4X has DSSV Multimatic dampers with dynamic spool valves. The dampers have three valves to control dampening and three chambers for fluid flow.
A unique valve for off-roading is activated once the wheel travel goes beyond the normal range to provide extra dampening during extended wheel travel and high-impact compression events.
The AT4X features heavy-duty skid plates, a larger transfer case, and rocker protection. We already know that the AEV adds full protection and could have a steal transfer case.
Also, the AT4X has a 3.0-inch lift and a 10.7-inch ground clearance. It features a 36.9-degree approach angle, a 24.5-degree breakover angle, and a 25.0-degree departure angle. The AEV could be taller with revised bumper shapes to improve its off-roading angles.
How much will the Canyon AT4X AEV cost?
Official pricing for the 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV hasn’t been released. However, we don’t expect for this extreme luxury off-roader to come cheap. The Canyon AT4X already starts at $56,995 with the destination fee included.
That’s nearly $10,000 more than the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, but the new model with updated tech is about to drop for 2024. It will probably get more expensive despite not having luxury upgrades and convenience features.
Stay tuned for the official debut of the GMC Canyon AT4X AEV. That’s when we can confirm how much the extra protection and enhanced capability will cost.
