It’s only been one model year since GMC launched the latest generation of its mid-size Canyon pickup. But with a segment that’s heating up – with redesigned 2024 rivals like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma – GMC has announced some serious upgrades to its Canyon lineup with the introduction of the Ultifi end-to-end software platform and the first-ever Canyon AT4X AEV Edition.
First seen on the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 full-size pickup truck, the off-road-oriented AEV Editions are developed with American Expedition Vehicles, a Detroit-based aftermarket supplier of parts and accessories for vehicles geared toward off-road driving and overland adventure travels.
“GMC is giving customers the ability to forge their own path within the premium off-roading space,” said Duncan Aldred, global vice president, Buick-GMC. “GMC Sierra 1500 light duty and Heavy Duty AT4X AEV Editions delivered what customers were looking for in the off-roading space and now we’re applying that same formula to the next-generation Canyon.”
What’s unique about the new 2024 GMC Canyon ATX4 AEV Edition?
Targeted at mid-size truck buyers who may be cross-shopping a Ford Ranger Raptor, Nissan Frontier Pro-4X, Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, or Tacoma TRD Pro, GMC says the new 2024 Canyon AT4X AEV Edition builds on the off-road capabilities of the existing Canyon AT4X with more aggressive styling, enhanced hardware, and further upgrades to the vehicle chassis.
Over the Canyon AT4X, AEV Edition highlights include 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, “best in class” 12.2-inch ground clearance, stamped-steel front and rear bumpers with heavy-duty recovery points, a winch-capable front bumper, and steel skid plates.
GMC says, with its 4.5-inch (114 mm) factory-installed lift – 1.5-in (38 mm) more than the Canyon AT4X – the new AEV Edition delivers a 38.2-degree front approach angle, a 26.9-degree breakover angle, and a 26.0-degree departure angle.
To ensure your fellow off-roaders know you’re rock-climbing in the most off-road capable 2024 Canyon, there’s AEV branding across the GMC truck’s bumpers, head restraints, and all-weather floor liners.
Like all Canyons, the new AEV Edition comes only as a four-door Crew Cab with a short bed. The only powertrain is a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder gas engine making 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive.
All GMC Canyons get new technology for 2024
GMC has announced that all 2024 Canyons will be able to add software updates over time with the introduction of GM’s Ultifi Platform. The platform enables the delivery of features and services to GMC owners over the air.
In addition, the 2024 Canyon’s Baja drive mode (available exclusively on the Canyon AT4X and AT4X AEV Edition trims) has been enhanced to include a new launch control feature that “learns” the driving surface and can adjust engine speed and torque accordingly.
The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is expected to be available for customer orders later this year.