The 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 Package delivers true off-road performance.
GMC is upping its game in the off-road pickup market with the AT4 package for the all-new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500.
The truck receives a slew of functional and visual upgrades over the standard Sierra, including a two-inch suspension lift, aggressive tires, underbody skid plates, off-road-tuned Rancho shocks, hill descent control, a locking rear differential, and GMC's new Traction Select System.
Duncan Aldred, the vice president of Global GMC, said, "The 2019 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. It's also the beginning for the AT4 brand, which will be seen on every vehicle in our lineup in the next two years."
The AT4 nomenclature replaces GMC's previous off-road package, the All Terrain. And as Aldred disclosed, we can expect the AT4 option across the GMC range, which should include the upcoming Sierra Heavy Duty slotted for debut within the next year.
The 2019 GMC Sierra AT4's added equipment is similar to the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss. Both come with the same two-inch lift, Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires, Rancho monotube shock absorbers, locking rear differential, and two-speed transfer case with low-range gears. However, the Sierra AT4 separates itself from the Silverado Trail Boss in a number of ways.
Visually, the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 receives some distinct styling. The front and rear bumpers are painted to match the body color, while the grille, fog light bezels, and fender trim are colored in black chrome. More blacked-out elements include the window trim, mirror caps, and front skid plate. GMC offsets this monochromatic look with splashes of red on all the AT4 badges, the front tow hooks, and of course, on the GMC badges.
Inside, the Sierra AT4 enjoys all the same upgrades made for 2019, including a redesigned dashboard, updated in-dash technology, and improved storage space.
The AT4 package adds dark trim, textured aluminum finishes on the steering wheel and center stack, and leather seats finished in jet black and Kalahari hues. Naturally, the seats have the AT4 logo embroidered on the headrests.
Several upgrades come standard with the AT4 package as well. A multi-color head-up display is a first for the half-ton segment, while a 360-degree camera system keeps the driver informed of what's around.
The new Traction Select System brings drive modes into the Sierra, offering specific tunes to the drivetrain, traction control, ABS, and other systems for various terrain types.
Last but not least is GMC's new ProGrade Trailering System with Trailering App. The system is designed to make trailering a much simpler and safer task for drivers of all skill levels.
Two other function-based features the 2019 Sierra AT4 worth mentioning are GMC's new MultiPro Tailgate and CarbonPro box. The MultiPro tailgate operates in six different ways, giving the user more options (probably more than they thought they'd ever get out of a tailgate).
Beyond the traditional lowered position, the MultiPro Tailgate has an upper section that lowers independently of the main tailgate. This can be used to keep longer cargo in place or as a workstation. With the main tailgate lowered, the upper section can be deployed as a step to get inside the bed. A folding grab handle gives a helping hand.
The CarbonPro box makes waves as the segment's first use of carbon fiber in a pickup bed. GMC says the CarbonPro box is lighter yet stronger than roll-steel boxes. It's far less likely to scratch and it won't dent or rust.
The AT4 package can be paired with all three of the engine options available in the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The base engine is now the 5.3-liter V-8, while the 6.2-liter V-8 is the horsepower king. Completely new for 2019 is General Motors' new 3.0-liter Duramax inline-six turbodiesel. No stats have been announced at the time of this writing, unfortunately.
The two V-8 engines now feature a new fuel-saving technology called Dynamic Fuel Management. The system allows the engine to operate on as few as one cylinder, depending on load. This means the truck will deliver both impressive fuel economy as well as horsepower and torque stats. Like the baby Duramax, we're still waiting for GM to release official engine specs.
The 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 will go on sale in the fall of 2018. Pricing has not been announced but should be available in the coming months. Stay tuned for more information.
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