Following in the footsteps of its Chevrolet twin, the 2024 GMC Sierra AT4X is now available with a Duramax diesel engine for exceptional power and efficiency.
Last week, Chevrolet revealed its updated 2024 Silverado ZR2, now offered with the long-anticipated 3.0-liter Duramax diesel powertrain. Luckily, the excitement continues as we have just received another thrilling announcement; the same diesel engine has finally made its way to the ZR2’s GMC sibling, the 2024 Sierra AT4X.
The Duramax has always been a favorite of Sierra owners, yet it was only available as an optional powertrain on certain trims. So due to many requests, the automaker has now decided to offer it as the standard engine on the most off-road-ready AT4X trim, definitely pleasing Sierra 1500 fans.
“Since the launch of the refined Duramax for the 2023 model year, around 20% of all Sierra 1500s sold have come with the engine, and we expect its addition to the AT4X trim to take mix even higher,” said Will Mellon, marketing manager for GMC Sierra.
Here, the 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 305 hp and an impressive 495 lb-ft of torque. Sure, the previous 6.2-liter Ecotec3 V8 may produce more power at 420 hp, but the Duramax diesel has the edge when it comes to torque with an additional 35 lb-ft over the gas-guzzling V8.
Furthermore, the main engine components have been specifically designed to achieve a higher torque output, including new steel pistons with revised combustion bowls, a retuned turbocharger compressor, upgraded fuel injectors, and temperature control features. Indeed, these demonstrate GM and Duramax’s commitment to taking its efficiency and performance to the next level.
John Barta, GM Duramax assistant chief engineer, noted the new diesel powertrain would add versatility to the truck’s already impressive capability. With the maximum torque achieved just above 1,250 rpm, the Sierra AT4X is ideal for customers seeking outstanding towing ability or even a true off-road machine for long-distance overlanding.
In addition, GM also added new features to improve the off-roading experience, including Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear e-locking differentials, and new tech sourced from the AEV edition. Additionally, the cabin received new massaging front seats wrapped in full-grain leather, authentic ash wood trims, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and over 40 diagonal inches of digital displays, making the workhorse feel more luxurious and comfortable than ever.
That said, just like the Chevy Silverado, the Sierra 1500 lineup is set to undergo some changes and get a couple more feature upgrades for the upcoming year. First off, the 2.7-liter inline-four powertrain on the Pro, SLE, and Elevation trims are rebranded as “TurboMax.” In addition, the SLT, Denali, Denali Ultimate, AT4, and AT4X trims will receive active exhaust, and all of them, aside from SLT, are getting the new power-retractable assist steps. Also, there are two new aluminum wheel design options and two fresh exterior colors to choose from, Downpour Metallic and Thunderstorm Gray.
Unfortunately, the pricing details for the 2024 Sierra 1500 models aren’t released yet, but we’ll keep you posted once they’re disclosed. But at least those who longed for a diesel-powered AT4X model have finally got their prayers answered.
So what do you think of the new Duramax-equipped Sierra AT4X? Would you opt for this one over the Silverado ZR2?
Let us know!
