GMC Launches Sierra AT4, Promises More Off-Roaders

NEW YORK – GMC takes the wraps off the Sierra AT4 off-road version of its all-new fullsize pickup and announces plans to offer the beefy AT4 trim level on every vehicle in its lineup by 2021.

GMC officials unveil the all-terrain truck at a media preview here prior to the truck’s public premiere at the New York auto show. The truck goes on sale this fall.

“The ’19 Sierra AT4 is designed for the customer who wants an elevated presence on the road and the capability to venture off life’s beaten path,” says Duncan Aldred, vice president-Global GMC.

Standard features include a 2.0-in. (51-mm) lift kit, 4-wheel-drive with a 2-speed transfer case, low-range gearing and a locking rear differential, Hill Descent Control, Traction Select System, skid plates, off-road monotube Rancho shocks, 18- or 20-in. wheels fitted with all-terrain tires or optional off-road Goodyear Wrangler Duratec tires and tow hooks.

Options include the previously announced carbon-fiber bed, MultiPro Tailgate, multicolor HUD, rear camera mirror and an array of advanced driver-assistance and safety features.

The base powertrain is GM’s 5.3L V-8 hooked to an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the optional 6.2L V-8 and the Duramax 3.0L I-6 turbodiesel get all-new 10-speed automatic gearboxes. The two gasoline engines feature Dynamic Fuel Management that allows them to operate on one to eight cylinders, depending on load and power demand.

Design touches setting the AT4 apart from its Sierra siblings include unique black chrome on the fog-lamp bezels, fender edges and grille, while the grille surround, door handles and bumper are body colored. Window trim, mirror caps and the skid plate are finished in high-gloss black paint.

“The ’19 Sierra is the boldest expression ever for GMC’s full-size pickup, and the new AT4 reinforces its essence of capability with distinctive, athletic cues,” says Matt Noone, director of design-GMC Exteriors. “From every angle, it conveys GMC’s premium yet functional design language.”

’19 Acadia and Terrain Black Editions.

With functionality in mind, the AT4 offers optional GearOn accessory rails inside the box to quickly adjust and tie down gear and equipment. Rear seatback storage is ample for tablets, tie-downs or other accessories, in addition to a large storage area under the second-row seats.

At the New York show, GMC also is unveiling its ’19 Terrain and Acadia Black Editions. The CUVs feature darkened trim elements and a factory blacked-out appearance that 20% of the brand’s customers say they prefer. The new trim offerings will be on sale this summer.

[email protected] @bobgritzinger