The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 is the terrain-oriented choice to compare before moving to the more specialized AT4X. The important distinction is that the two names do not describe the same suspension and differential equipment. Decide which hardware you need rather than treating the extra letter as a cosmetic change.
Watch our 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 video below.
Looking to buy this vehicle, or is your insurance renewal coming up?
I can help you compare your options.
Jason
Licensed Insurance Broker in Ontario
🚗 Auto | 🏠 Home | 🏢 Commercial
Text or WhatsApp: 289-683-2098 · Message on WhatsApp
Engine and transmission
The Canadian AT4 reference specification uses a 3.0-litre diesel rated at 305 hp and 495 lb-ft with a ten-speed automatic. A 6.2-litre V8 is also available; confirm the engine on the individual build sheet. Canadian AT4 specification; Engine availability.
The diesel and V8 should be treated as different configurations when comparing used listings. Ask for the engine code and service history, and check whether the tires, suspension or emissions equipment have been modified.
If considering the 6.2-litre V8, ask GM to check the VIN and completed repairs for Transport Canada recall 2025225. Certain 2024 Sierras with that engine can suffer engine failure and loss of drive power because of defective connecting-rod or crankshaft components. Confirm the required dealer inspection and remedy. This recall does not cover diesel or smaller gasoline engines; model year or the AT4 badge alone does not prove a truck is affected.
AT4 versus AT4X equipment
The 2024 AT4X adds Multimatic DSSV dampers and driver-selectable locking front and rear differentials. Those features must not be assigned to an ordinary AT4. Canadian 2024 trim equipment.
The AT4 equipment comparison includes heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. A head-up display is not listed as standard on AT4. AT4 standard and optional equipment.
A useful inspection should cover the underside as well as the cabin. Look for evidence of impacts, unusual tire wear and aftermarket changes, and ask whether replacement parts match the original configuration. A terrain-oriented badge does not establish how a previous owner used the truck.
Fuel economy
NRCan separates standard Sierra 4WD, mud-terrain-tire and AT4X rows. The diesel references below illustrate why the lowest Sierra number should not be applied automatically to AT4. Actual consumption varies with use and conditions. NRCan 2024 data.
| 2024 3.0L diesel configuration | City L/100 km | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sierra 4WD | 10.4 | 8.7 | 9.6 |
| Sierra 4WD Mud Terrain Tire | 11.3 | 10.4 | 10.9 |
| Sierra 4WD AT4X | 12.2 | 12.0 | 12.1 |
Confirm the correct engine and tire specification for the vehicle you are considering. At 20,000 km annually, the mud-terrain reference represents 2,180 litres. Weather, idling, accessories and towing can change consumption; the calculation is not a promise about your truck.
Towing and payload
Use the actual truck’s trailering information and payload label. Cab, box, engine and installed equipment matter, and the Sierra family’s maximum tow rating should not be presented as the capacity of every AT4.
Include people, bed cargo, accessories and trailer tongue weight together. If the truck will carry work equipment during family travel, calculate that combined load before selecting a trailer. A comparison based only on engine output misses the limiting factors.
Canadian trim comparison
Current Canadian manufacturer pricing for these exact 2024 configurations has not been verified as of October 31, 2026. Vehicle prices and price differences are omitted; the table compares equipment only. Both rows use Crew Cab Short Box 4WD diesels.
| Trim | Equipment focus |
|---|---|
| AT4 | Heated/ventilated front seats and heated steering wheel; AT4X adds the distinct dampers and lockers below |
| AT4X | DSSV dampers and front/rear selectable lockers |
The equipment rows use the same body and base diesel engine. Compare the options on an actual AT4 before deciding whether the AT4X’s distinct dampers and lockers suit your needs.
Is AT4 the better balance?
AT4 deserves consideration if you want its configuration without paying for AT4X hardware you will not use. If specialized terrain equipment is central to your plans, compare the complete AT4X specification instead of assuming an option-heavy AT4 is equivalent.
Frequently asked questions
Is AT4 the same as AT4X?
No. The specialist hardware differs; the comparison above identifies the key distinction.
Is every AT4 diesel?
No. Confirm the engine on the individual build sheet.