Quick test | GMC Sierra 2500 AT4X: for a very specialized audience

Despite the obvious contradiction with their electrification efforts, the three major American manufacturers are continuing efforts to equip off-road versions of so-called “heavy-duty” versions of full-size pickup trucks. We slipped behind the wheel of one of these behemoths – the GMC Sierra 2500 AT4X – for a rare foray into this universe where towing capacity and mechanical torque take precedence – almost – over everything.

With a height of 2.10 m, a width of 2.6 m (including the mirrors) and a length of 6.4 m, this Sierra 2500 is so imposing as a complete Mazda MX-5 enters its wheelbase. The AT4X livery tested feeds this image of excess with its bumpers with integrated anchor points, a suspension raised by 38 mm and specific 18-inch Salta rims with 35-inch diameter tires. The bases, placed 300 mm from the ground, are also better protected by additional shields.

Its 3.9 tonnes (!) are suspended on Multimatic DSSV shock absorbers, a spool valve technology developed in competition. To maintain a towing capacity of nearly 8,400 kg, rear blades are used, which gives rise to rather bouncy behavior on bumpy roads, but better controlled than that of the standard liveries. The hydraulic ball steering also makes steering a little risky, inevitable compromises to ensure the robustness of this work tool.

Moreover, the driving experience reflects the colossal footprint of this Sierra HD to which we must pay constant attention. Everything comes into contradiction with the very well appointed and soundproofed interior which tries to justify the $110,000 starting price. The 6.6L Duramax turbodiesel V8 does the job in exemplary fashion with its 470 hp and 975 lb-ft of torque from 1,600 rpm. A piece of choice, not too greedy, which uses a well-designed Allison transmission. At the end of the test, one question remained unanswered, however: but where will this off-road hardware be able to express itself as this Sierra 2500 is so imposing?