CHATTANOOGA — The 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X stands as a testament to the evolution of mid-size pickups, blending off-road prowess with everyday usability. As GMC’s flagship off-road trim in the Canyon lineup, the AT4X builds on the truck’s 2023 redesign, incorporating subtle enhancements for the new model year that emphasize durability, technology and performance. Priced starting at around $55,000, it competes directly with rivals like the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Ford Ranger Raptor, offering a premium experience tailored for adventurers who demand more than just trail-conquering capability.
From the outset, the Canyon AT4X exudes a muscular presence. Its exterior design retains the bold, angular styling introduced in the recent refresh, with a wide stance measuring 79.8 inches across and a length of 212.7 inches for the crew cab configuration — the only body style available for this trim. The front fascia features a distinctive blacked-out grille flanked by LED headlights that incorporate GMC’s signature C-shaped daytime running lights. Skid plates protect the underbody, while 17-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires provide ample ground clearance of 10.7 inches. Approach, breakover and departure angles clock in at 36.9 degrees, 25.2 degrees and 25 degrees, respectively, making it ready for steep inclines and rocky descents.
New for 2025, GMC has added optional beadlock-capable wheels, enhancing tire security during extreme off-roading. The AT4X also sports red tow hooks, rock sliders and a factory-installed lift kit that raises the suspension by 3 inches over standard models. Available in colors like Volcanic Red Tintcoat and Onyx Black, the truck’s aesthetic strikes a balance between rugged and refined, with chrome accents minimized to emphasize its utilitarian roots. One minor gripe: The plastic wheel arches, while functional for debris protection, can feel a tad cheap compared to the premium badging elsewhere.
Stepping inside, the Canyon AT4X’s cabin reflects GMC’s push toward luxury in the mid-size segment. The crew cab offers seating for five, with 41.3 inches of front headroom and 38.3 inches in the rear. Leather-appointed seats with AT4X embroidery provide excellent support, heated and ventilated in the front for all-weather comfort. The dashboard layout is intuitive, dominated by a 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system running GMC’s latest software. Physical knobs for climate and volume controls remain, a welcome nod to driver-focused ergonomics amid the digital takeover in modern vehicles.
Cargo space is practical, with a 5-foot-2-inch bed offering 41.9 cubic feet of volume. Tie-down points and an available MultiPro tailgate — which flips down, folds or acts as a step — add versatility for hauling gear. Storage solutions abound, including under-seat compartments and door pockets spacious enough for water bottles and tools. However, rear legroom at 34.7 inches might feel cramped for taller passengers on long trips, a common compromise in mid-size trucks.
Under the hood, the 2025 Canyon AT4X relies on GMC’s proven 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it provides robust acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds despite the truck’s 4,800-pound curb weight. Towing capacity maxes out at 7,700 pounds, while payload is rated at 1,640 pounds — figures that hold steady from previous years but benefit from refined tuning for smoother power delivery.
Fuel economy remains a mixed bag. The EPA estimates 16 mpg in the city, 16 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg combined for the four-wheel-drive AT4X, reflecting the penalties of its off-road tires and higher ride height. In real-world testing, expect around 15 mpg during mixed driving, with efficiency dipping further when laden or off-pavement. GMC has introduced a more efficient engine calibration for 2025, but it’s no hybrid; for those seeking better mileage, the base Canyon trims with rear-wheel drive offer up to 19 mpg combined.
Where the AT4X truly shines is off-road. Equipped with Multimatic DSSV position-sensitive shocks — the same technology found in high-performance vehicles like the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 — the suspension absorbs bumps with remarkable composure. Front and rear electronic locking differentials, combined with a two-speed transfer case, ensure traction in slippery conditions. The truck’s Baja mode, part of the Terrain Mode selector, optimizes throttle response and stability control for high-speed desert runs, while Rock Crawl mode dials in low-speed precision.
During a test drive on Michigan’s rugged trails, the AT4X handled loose gravel and deep ruts with ease, its 4.63:1 low-range gearing providing ample torque multiplication. The underbody camera system, displaying views on the infotainment screen, proved invaluable for spotting obstacles, though it could benefit from higher resolution in low-light scenarios. Compared to competitors, the Canyon’s ride feels more planted than the bouncy Tacoma TRD Pro, but it lacks the Ranger Raptor’s Fox shocks for ultimate high-speed damping.
Technology integration is a strong suit. The standard 11-inch digital driver display offers customizable gauges, including off-road metrics like pitch and roll angles. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless, and the Bose premium audio system delivers crisp sound for podcasts or music on long hauls. GMC’s Pro Safety suite comes standard, encompassing automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring. For 2025, adaptive cruise control gains stop-and-go functionality, enhancing highway driving.
Optional packages elevate the experience further. The AEV Edition, starting at an additional $6,000, adds 35-inch tires, heavy-duty bumpers and enhanced skid plates for extreme enthusiasts. Inside, wireless charging and a head-up display keep the cabin modern. However, the infotainment system’s occasional lag during voice commands — a carryover issue from earlier models — could frustrate tech-savvy users.
Safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration give the Canyon five stars overall, with strong marks in frontal and side crashes. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates it “Good” in most categories, though roof strength earns an “Acceptable” score. Features like rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera bolster confidence in tight spaces, particularly when parking the truck’s sizable footprint.
In terms of value, the AT4X justifies its premium positioning. Base models start lower in the Canyon lineup, but the AT4X’s specialized equipment makes it a worthwhile splurge for off-roaders. Resale value holds strong, with GMC trucks typically retaining 60% of their worth after three years, according to industry analysts. Warranty coverage includes three years or 36,000 miles basic, five years or 60,000 miles powertrain, with roadside assistance matching the powertrain term.
Yet, it’s not without flaws. The engine, while torquey, can feel strained under heavy loads, lacking the V6 smoothness of past generations. Wind noise at highway speeds intrudes more than in luxury SUVs, and the absence of a diesel option — discontinued after 2022 — limits appeal for torque-hungry buyers. Additionally, the AT4X’s stiff suspension translates to a firmer on-road ride, which might deter those prioritizing comfort over capability.
Overall, the 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X excels as a versatile mid-size truck that doesn’t compromise on adventure. It appeals to weekend warriors and daily drivers alike, offering a refined alternative to bulkier full-size pickups like the Sierra. In a market increasingly crowded with capable contenders, the AT4X stands out for its blend of premium features and rugged reliability. If your lifestyle involves equal parts pavement and dirt, this GMC deserves a spot on your shortlist.