GMC Updates Canyon Pickup Range for 2021 with New AT4, Denali Variants

GMC amps up the theatrics by unveiling the new lineup  of the 2021 GMC Canyon pickup truck in no less than the mountains of Colorado. The updated range include an off-road-focused AT4 trim level, while doing away with the manual transmission option.

“The new 2021 Canyon AT4 broadens the appeal to midsize truck customers who live an active lifestyle,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Buick and GMC. “Much like the Sierra AT4 has attracted new customers from outside GMC, the Canyon AT4 will attract outdoor enthusiasts looking for a premium midsize truck to GMC with the capability, technology and refinement they’ve come to expect.”

As a replacement for the outgoing model’s All Terrain version, the AT4 possesses unique aesthetic features include red recovery hooks, an expanded front grille, and multiple dark chrome accents on the inside, and an embroidered AT4 logo in the headrests and Kalahari stitching on the inside.

But eye-catching aesthetics aren’t the only features worth speaking of in the newly introduced trim. For starters, it won’t be a worthy off-roader without a capable four-wheel drive system, and the AT4’s unit comes with an Eaton G80 rear automatic locking differential, off-road tuned suspension, hill descent control, and capped off with 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires fitted to 17-inch aluminum wheels.

There’s also the form-and-function serving skid plate that protects the transfer case from bumps and bruises as the truck travels over the roughest terrain.

“This is a truck created with outdoor adventurers in mind,” added Aldred. “The Canyon AT4 is a perfect complement to the driver’s other passions and appreciation of the details, whether that’s a mountain bike, a snowboard or their truck.”

Aside from the new AT4 trim, GMC also updated the Canyon Denali inside and out for the 2020 model year. Exterior updates include a more intricately sculpted and layered grille, 5-inch chrome assist steps, exclusive 20-inch aluminum wheels, chrome accents, and an altogether modernized look that closely resembles GMC’s Sierra and Sierra HD offerings.

Changes on the inside include custom stitching, aluminum flourishes, and an authentic open-pore ash wood trim. As for look-enhancing options, buyers can opt for the Cocoa/Dark Atmosphere color theme to further elevate the interior of their Denali truck.

“Denali represents GMC’s bold design philosophy and these changes further elevate the Canyon from the mainstream competition, while delivering a modern look for the customer,” said Holt Ware, director of GMC exterior design. “It features a more distinctive and sophisticated design that has become synonymous with Denali.”

Both the new Canyon AT4 and Denali are powered by a standard 3.6L V6 engine that produces a best-in-class output of 308 horses and 373 Nm. The more fuel-conscious can opt for an available 2.8L Diesel engine, offering 181 hp and 500 Nm.

Pricing and launch details have not yet been released.

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