Personally I’ve been a fan of GM trucks for a little while now. With a brawny grille, athletic stature, and luxurious features, I think GM trucks are the best-looking on the market, and when I had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a GMC Sierra 1500 AT4, I jumped at the chance.
Not exactly marketed as a work truck, the 1500 AT4 is really worth looking into for those of you who require a vehicle that can carry loads to remote places. It’s definitely a head-turner, and its features are pretty impressive. The functions, storage, power sources, and the technology features make this truck GMC’s premier, refined off-roader.
ON THE INSIDE
When you peek into the Sierra 1500 AT4’s interior, the first thing you might notice are beautifully trimmed, jet black leather-appointed seats with Kalahari accents that, to me, give the truck a sophisticated yet muscly look. Those seats don’t only look good, but they’re comfortable enough for long treks across county lines.
Heated front seats are standard, but the truck I drove had heated rear seats as well. Device charging ports and USB connections are available for the work crew in the back, and you won’t have to worry about a cramped crew as the back seat was roomy enough for even my long legs.
The 1500 AT4 is loaded with storage. Put tools in the door panels, important paperwork in the center console, store personal property on the open storage tray below the instrument panel, and place additional work items in the large lower lockable glove box and upper glove box. Workers can also take advantage of in-cushion storage bins on the backs of the rear seat as well as an underseat storage bin.
With an interior like this, I sometimes began to wonder if I was in a luxury vehicle instead a truck (I found myself excited for a comfortable drive each time I buckled in). But the Sierra 1500 AT4 has the power that helps you remember exactly why you purchased a pickup—for its capability and versatility.
CAPABILITY
If I’m being honest, there were several times I’d hit the open highway with a heavy foot on the accelerator just to hear the 6.2-L V8 engine roar. The truck has impressive, almost intimidating, power that will press you against your seatback if you aren’t ready. The engine gives a maximum of 420 hp and can tow up to 9,400 lbs and delivers 460 lb-ft of torque.
Unfortunately the truck wasn’t fitted with a hitch, so I was unable to haul with it; however, GMC worked to make trailer hitching a breeze for drivers of all experience levels. GMC’s ProGrade Trailering System uses multiple cameras to help drivers align their hitch to the trailer; an electric parking brake has Hook-up Assist that automatically engages the brakes when a truck goes in Park in the Hitch View.
For work trucks that use several different trailers on a consistent basis, the system allows truck users to create trailer profiles. These profiles automatically recall the settings for a particular trailer, such as brake level settings, connection information, maintenance reminders, and trailering alerts.
Other features of the Sierra 1500 AT4 exist in its cargo box that includes a Six-Function MultiPro Tailgate. The tailgate offers a fold out step and features cargo solutions to keep your load from slipping out. The tailgate can also double as a work space when folding just the first tier. See more about the MultiPro on page 56.
GOING OFF-ROAD
The truck was purpose-built for unmarked roads and trails. Its factory-installed 2-inch lift gives you the ground clearance for tough terrain. A locking rear differential helps drivers maneuver out of muddy conditions, skid plates offer additional protection, and a simple push of a button activates Hill Descent Control.
The truck’s Head-Up Display includes Off-Road Inclinometer that shows the fore-and-aft tilt, front tire angle, and left-and-right tilt. The display also shows speed, tachometer, audio, navigation, low fuel warning, phone, and safety alerts.
Arguably one of the best technologies introduced to vehicles as of late is Surround Vision. This provides multiple views—including bird’s eye view—of the vehicle’s surroundings directly on the infotainment screen. This is especially helpful when on rocky terrain, helping drivers to avoid hitting large yet unseen boulders in their path. But this view also helps drivers maneuver in crowded city streets and tight city parking, adding to this trucks versatility.
TAKEAWAY
This truck is a capable, versatile head-turner. Its smooth, comfortable ride is perfect for highway driving. Its advanced yet easy-to-use technology makes driving more enjoyable, and its off-road and towing capabilities make this truck versatile enough for any fleet. And although there are concerns about the longevity of the MultiPro Tailgate, it really is a handy feature to have. So the ultimate question is: Would you really want to take a truck with this price tag out in muddy, dusty roads or rocky, rough terrain? Rest assured, if that’s your desire, the GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 can take you there.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jade Brasher is the editor of Modern WorkTruck Solutions magazine. A graduate of The University of Alabama, Jade resides in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and enjoys writing about her town, travel, and of course, work trucks. Reach her at jade@mwsmag.com.
Jade tested a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Crew Cab with a 6.2-L V8 engine. Special thanks to General Motors and Prestige Auto of Atlanta, Georgia, for providing the vehicle for review.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS: MAY 2019 ISSUE
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