2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD AT4X Warrants Fun When the Workday Is Done

• The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD AT4X and Extreme AEV Edition debut as the most off-road-capable models in the brand's heavy-duty lineup.

• The AT4X boasts 35-inch mud-terrain tires, protective skid plates, and a jacked-up suspension with sophisticated spool-valve dampers.

• The Extreme AEV Edition's add-ons come from aftermarket supplier AEV and include exclusive 18-inch wheels, stronger skid plates, and unique steel bumpers.

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. That is unless Jack drives a 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD AT4X or an Extreme AEV Edition, which together debut as the most off-road-focused models in the brand's heavy-duty lineup. Able to tow up to 18,500 pounds and haul a payload of up to nearly 3300 pounds, the new AT4X and its AEV-enhanced counterpart are as capable as most other three-quarter-ton Sierras, but they also come with the necessary equipment to warrant some added fun when the workday is done.

An Off-Road Semi Truck

While the 2024 model year marks the first time GMC's AT4X badge has appeared on a Sierra HD, the dirt-oriented model was introduced on the 2022 Sierra 1500. Previously, the heavy-duty pickup truck's top off-road option was the regular AT4, which is offered on both the 2500HD and 3500HD. The new AT4X is only available on the 2500HD configured with the crew-cab body style and the standard-length cargo bed.

The Sierra 2500HD AT4X is outfitted similar to the recently revealed 2024 Chevy Silverado 2500HD ZR2. Both feature black 18-inch wheels wrapped with chunky 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory M/T tires. The AT4X's suspension is raised 1.5 inches, and the truck is buoyed by sophisticated Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers. Also found on professional race cars and trucks, these fancy shocks feature three separate spool valves that better help on-road composure and withstand off-road abuse.

Other bits exclusive to the 2024 Sierra 2500HD AT4X include a revised front suspension with enhanced steering knuckles as well as unique upper and lower control arms. The bottom of the truck is also better protected from taking a beating thanks to the addition of an aluminum front bash plate and a larger steel skid plate for the transfer case. An electronically locking rear differential is part of the AT4X kit too, as is an Off-Road drive mode to help tackle tough obstacles.