GMC Canyon AT4X takes aim at Ford Ranger Raptor
General Motors unveils its biggest threat yet to the Australian-developed Ford Ranger RaptorGeneral Motors has answered the challenge thrown down by the new Australian-developed Ford Ranger Raptor, unveiling the 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X ute that it describes as “the most advanced off-road mid-size truck” available.
Not destined for right-hand drive markets at this stage, the GMC Canyon AT4X is also said to be “built from the ground up to conquer any terrain”, building on the inroads made by the previous AT4 to deliver “serious off-road capability”.
Compared to the 292kW/583Nm 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6 found in the Ranger Raptor, the Canyon AT4X uses a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that’s behind on power (231kW) but is expected to offer the same amount of torque (583kW), according to GM.
Riding on 33-inch mud-terrain tyres and a 3.0-inch factory suspension lift as standard, the wide-track Canyon AT4X offers 272mm of ground clearance straight out of the box with bump absorption aided by bespoke Multimatic DSSV dampers.
The chunky rubber, raised body and unique front fascia design gift the Canyon AT4X an approach angle of 36.9 degrees, which compares to the Raptor’s 32 degrees.
Ramp-over and departure angles are still to be announced.
Like the Raptor, the flagship Canyon features locking differentials on both axles, underbody protection and various drive modes including an exclusive-to-AT4X Baja mode that’s designed specifically for high-speed off-road driving.
There’s also Terrain, Off-Road, Tow/Haul and Normal modes.
These goodies are complemented by an ‘off-road performance display’ within the 11-inch digital instrument cluster through which the driver can access and monitor real-time metrics including g-force, altimeter, pitch and roll stats.
Those wanting even more rough-terrain hardware and visual sass can opt for the Edition 1 pack which adds underbody cameras, a safari bar, 30-inch light bar, COMEUP winch, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, a reconfigurable bed rail system, performance front skid plate and an ‘Edition 1’ tailgate badge.
Other AT4X standard equipment highlights include an 11.3-inch infotainment system with wireless smartphone mirroring, seven-speaker Bose stereo and a head-up display.
As well as AT4X, the new GMC Canyon will also be offered with Evolution, AT4 and Denali models at launch.
The new-generation dual-cab ute is taller, wider and longer than its predecessor. It’s safer, too, key standard features including autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, IntelliBeam automatic high beam, following distance indicator, lane keep assist with lane departure warning and forward collision alert.
“GMC is flexing the might of our off-road muscle,” said GMC global vice-president Duncan Aldred.
“Canyon benefits from key learnings gained from our AT4 strategy to bring customers the most advanced off-road mid-size truck.”
The Canyon’s unveiling follows the recent reveal of the related 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, which is similarly not slated for launch Down Under.
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