Tested: Is the 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X Worth the Extra Cash?
We’ve been off-roading with the GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X to see if it’s worth the premium price tag. While the AT4X is incredibly capable and comfortable, some of the off-roading upgrades may compromise comfort on the pavement. However, dominating the wild in the 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X provides enough fun to be worth every penny.
How much does the 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X cost?
The 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X price starts at $81,700. This is relatively higher than the entry-level 2023 Sierra 1500, which starts at $37,100. You could get two entry-level Sierra models for the price of one AT4X.
Also, the more affordable GMC Sierra AT4 trim rings in at $66,700. Going for the AT4 model instead of the AT4X could save you $15,000. However, the AT4X builds upon the AT4 with incredible off-roading and luxurious upgrades.
The GMC Sierra AT4 starts the party with a 2-inch suspension lift, a two-speed transfer case, an automatic locking rear differential, a heavy-duty battery, an engine block heater, a dual exhaust system, tow hooks, monotube shock absorbers, a heavy-duty air filter, all-terrain tires, and skid plates.
You also get front bucket seats, a center console, a 7-speaker Bose audio system, a spray-in bed liner, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, wireless charging pad, an integrated trailer brake controller, surround-view camera system, and pre-wiring for available camera views.
What comes with the GMC Sierra AT4X?
The 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X sweetens the pot with gloss black 18-inch AEV Salta wheels wrapped in 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territy Mud Terrain tires, Multimatic DSSV spool valve dampers, front and rear locking differentials, and AEV stamped steel front and rear bumpers with front and rear recovery points and winching capability.
You also get five hot boron stamped skidplates, a steel two-speed transfer case, a 170-amp alternator, an external engine cooler, front and rear parking sensors, more trailer camera views, a bed-view camera, and a trailer tire pressure monitor.
The extra luxury and convenience features include a 12-speaker Bose audio system, massaging front seats, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Venta ash wood trim, leather-wrapped trim pieces, a microsuede headliner, power sunroof, and rear power window.
Plus, it features a head-up display, tailgate-mounted speakers, autopilot noise compensation technology, the MulitPro tailgate, all-weather floor mats, and embroidered headrests. It has 11 additional upgrades compared to the AT4.
How does the 2023 Sierra AT4X perform?
The 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X isn’t short on power. It has a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from o to 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds. The 10-speed automatic transmission is extremely smooth.
At times the suspension is a bit stiff, but larger impacts are settled without much fuss. There is only a little bit of body roll around sharp curves at higher speeds, and the brakes are confident. The handling could be more responsive, but the Sierra AT4X is agile.
It has a 23.65-inch turning radius, so it isn’t the easiest to park. But the surround-view camera and parking sensors make it easy to navigate around tight areas.
You would expect the Sierra to be louder because of its suspension build and massive tires, but only a little wind noise enters the cabin at higher speeds. Also, the front and rear seats are spacious, well-padded, and supportive.
The climate control system is strong and effective, but the heated seats take a few minutes to really kick in. Access is easy thanks to the optional rocker panels and built-in corner steps for the bed.
Off-roading in the Sierra AT4X is a blast with its 11.2-inch ground clearance to clear obstacles. The Terrain Mode and Off-Roading modes provide precise control and enhanced traction in slippery conditions.
The ride is smooth over gravel and rough patches of rocks. The truck feels in control in slippery conditions with thick mud, sleet, and snow. It even fords water with confidence as the tires provide a connection to the trail conditions.
The GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X is perfect for work and play. It’s comfortable on the road and in the wild. We can see ourselves happily traversing the woods or driving around the pastures to check on cows. It’s well-equipped to avoid getting stuck while providing premium comfort.
So, yes, the 2023 GMC Sierra AT4X is worth buying. It’s a luxurious ride that isn’t afraid to get to work.