2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4 : The Electric Adventurer
Detroit, MI — Launched earlier last year as a 2025 model, the GMC Sierra EV arrived as backup for the Chevrolet Silverado EV in the elite segment of full-size electric pickup trucks. The problem is, since its debut, the Sierra EV has only been available in a single trim level — the range-topping Denali. And since that badge represents top-tier luxury within the GMC lineup, the brand’s strategists had to counter with one or more more affordable options.
That option is arriving very soon at dealerships across the country: the GMC Sierra EV will now be offered in the Elevation trim, starting at an MSRP of $82,000 — already a more reasonable figure than the $102,000 required to drive away in the Denali version. But now, there’s a third alternative: the rugged AT4 model.
Surprisingly, the AT4 is more expensive than the Denali, with an MSRP of $104,000. When asked about this, Patrick Finnegan, senior marketing manager at GMC, responded that the truck’s tech content is top-notch — despite lacking the air suspension and massive 24-inch wheels from the luxury model. Unlike the base Denali version of the Sierra EV, however, the AT4 cannot be equipped with the standard battery. That means the truck leaves the assembly line with more range, for roughly the same price as its ultra-posh sibling.
The Mid-Range Option for Adventure Seekers
The highlight of the AT4 launch event took place at a hunting resort, where forest trails abound. And since Mother Nature had dumped quite a bit of rain the day before our test drive, the terrain was particularly soft — which made for quite a challenge for our heavy battery-powered trucks.
Ironically, to shuttle automotive journalists from the airport to the hotel, GMC relied on its own GMC Hummer EV, another off-road-capable giant and arguably the most trail-ready electric vehicle out there.
The GMC Sierra EV AT4 might not be as well protected underneath against sharp obstacles as the Humer, but it does offer a two-inch increase in ground clearance (compared to other Sierra EV trims), and trades out air suspension for a coil-spring setup — a solution we see as more rugged and easier to maintain on the long-term. It also comes equipped with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 35-inch all-terrain tires, a must for dealing with deteriorating trail conditions.
The AT4 is also the only electric Sierra variant to offer Terrain Mode, which allows for more aggressive camber angles on the rear directional axle. And since the Sierra EV shares its Ultium platform with the Hummer EV, it’s no surprise that it also gets Crab Walk mode — a quirky but handy feature that turns all wheels in the same direction to help get out of tight spots or over difficult terrain.
The AT4 trim also includes the exclusive Forest Storm interior, red tow hooks, a spray-in bed liner, illuminated front badging, black exterior accents, heated seats in both rows, ventilated front bucket seats, a seven-speaker Bose Premium audio system, a head-up display, 7.2 kW of energy transfer, a full suite of safety features, and, of course, the Super Cruise driver assistance system. With this in mind, it’s easier to understand why this version comes at a higher price.
Four Tons in the Mud
Like its platform mates, the GMC Sierra EV AT4 is no featherweight. Tipping the scales at nearly 4,000 kg (almost 9,000 lbs), it seems a little on the heavy side to venture on a flooded trail. As mentioned earlier, this particular variant wasn’t designed with the same rugged goals as the Hummer EV. Still, with more clearance under the chassis and proper all-terrain tires, the Sierra EV AT4 proved itself as the middle-ground option.
The AT4 did struggle in the trenches on a few occasions — especially after repeated passes — but using Terrain or Off-Road mode, the truck never needed outside help to get unstuck.
The rear-wheel steering is a blessing when tackling tight corners — this is a large vehicle, after all. Unlike a traditional vehicle, the Sierra EV doesn’t use a mechanical limited-slip differential. Instead, it relies on software. When the system detects a spinning wheel, it sends torque to the ones with better grip. It’s a smart and highly effective system.
All in all, the vehicle handled itself impressively on a trail would have stopped most compact SUVs.
The Best Road Version?
Given the abundance of potholes on Québec roads, we appreciate the recent trend toward adventure-style setups — more rubber on smaller wheels means less chance of expensive damage. Even without the air suspension, the Sierra EV AT4 is very comfortable. Bumps are barely noticeable inside the cabin, and sound insulation is excellent thanks to acoustic glass up front.
While ride comfort is outstanding, handling is less stellar when cornering hard. Push past the posted speed limit in a tight curve, and you’ll hear the tires protest — they’re clearly struggling with the truck’s massive weight. While the battery placement under the floor helps with stability, it doesn’t eliminate the overall bulkiness. It’s best to drive the Sierra EV with a bit of restraint.
On the highway, however, the excellent Super Cruise system makes things much easier. It even allows for lane changes without driver input.
Landscape or Portrait?
Inside, when compared to its bowtie-branded rival (the Chevrolet Silverado EV), the GMC Sierra EV takes a distinct approach. Though the dashboard houses the same apps as its sibling, it presents them in a more vertical layout. Unlike Chevrolet’s horizontal layout, the 16.8-inch diagonal screen in the Sierra is arranged top to bottom. At its base is a rotary knob for audio volume and several piano-style keys for daily functions. The small gear selector to the right of the steering column connects the driver to the powertrain, while another screen behind the wheel displays key driving info.
What’s clear from this first experience with GMC’s big electric pickup truck is that it blends solid off-road capability with real on-road comfort. Time will tell if buyers are ready to embrace the first AT4 model to use electrons to power its wheels.
