The 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X Has a Terrific Ride And Imposing Design, But I Had To Ask My Wife To Move To The Left So I Can Have a 50% of Rear Mirror View

Most people who are shopping for a mid-size truck think they know what they want. They believe a Tacoma is the only serious off-roader in this category. Or maybe they’re eyeing the Ford Ranger Raptor because, well, Raptor. But what if the most well-balanced off-road truck in the segment is one most folks overlook? What if the 2025 GMC Canyon AT4 Crew Cab, yes, the GMC, is actually more capable, more thoughtfully built, and more satisfying to drive off-road than its badge or marketing hype suggests?

I spent a full week driving the 2025 Canyon AT4S, and the more time I spent behind the wheel, the more I questioned the assumptions most people bring to the mid-size truck world. This truck doesn’t beg for attention like the TRD Pro or the Raptor-lite twins. It just goes out and does the job, with real capability, real comfort, and a touch of rugged class that feels different in a good way.

The 2025 Canyon AT4X Crew Cab has a terrific drive. Firm in the way a truck should be, but never harsh. It grips the road with authority and communicates the terrain back to you without rattling your bones. And the design, let’s just say it's really good and imposing. But not all the surprises were good. That stylish rear-mounted spare tire behind the cab? It may look rugged and rally-ready, but in practice, it took up half my rearview mirror. I actually found myself asking my wife to scoot left in the passenger seat just so I could gain an extra few inches of mirror visibility. It was almost comical. Functional for trail warriors? Sure. Practical for daily parking lot reversals? That’s another story.

First Impressions of the 2025Canyon AT4: It Sits High, It Looks Serious 

You don’t climb into the 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X. You ascend into it.

Seriously, the ground clearance is that impressive. At 10.7 inches, the truck’s stance immediately sets a tone: “I’m built for terrain, not traffic.” That height gives the AT4X one of the best approach and departure angles in its class, and it feels like it. It changes the way you enter and exit the vehicle. For some, it may be slightly annoying. You’ll want to warn your less mobile passengers. But from a utility standpoint, it signals seriousness. The Canyon AT4X means business.

This thing looks purpose-built. The 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory all-terrain tires are wrapped around 17-inch dark wheels. There’s a genuine front skid plate. Optional rock rails. And the spare tire? It sits mounted behind the cab, at the front of the bed - rally-style. It looks stylish and aggressive, no doubt. But here’s where I’ll throw in a caveat: that spare tire eats up about half your rearview mirror visibility. It’s a design decision that favors form over function, and it’s something you’ll want to weigh depending on your driving environment.

Under the Hood of The 2025 GMC Canyon: Turbo Torque That Works for Real-World Drivers 

All Canyon trims this year, including the AT4X, are powered by GM’s 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-4. This engine has caused some debate among truck purists. No V6. No diesel. Just one four-cylinder with different tunes depending on trim.

But here’s the thing. That debate dies quickly once you drive it.

In the AT4, the engine makes a strong 310 horsepower and a whopping 430 lb-ft of torque. That’s more torque than the old 3.6-liter V6 ever had. And it’s noticeable. Whether I was pulling out into traffic, climbing a gravel hill, or crawling through a trail, the turbo pulled confidently and predictably. The 8-speed automatic transmission is calibrated well, and shifts are crisp and not overly eager to jump to high gears like some rivals do.

This powertrain is not only adequate, it’s exceptional in the context of a truck meant for both everyday use and off-pavement adventure. Some people will dismiss it because it’s not a V6. I say - drive it before you decide.

Off-Road Performance: Where the Canyon AT4 Stretches Its Legs 

Let’s not sugarcoat it. The 2025 GMC Canyon AT4 is built for off-road adventure, and in many ways, it’s the sweet spot in the lineup for serious trail-goers who still want daily drivability.

You get a two-speed transfer case, hill descent control, and an off-road-tuned suspension with Multimatic DSSV dampers if you step into the more extreme AT4X. But even without that upgrade, the standard AT4 handles dirt, ruts, and elevation changes with ease. The terrain drive modes actually work. The truck doesn’t bounce wildly over washboard trails. And on steep gravel descents, the hill descent control keeps things controlled without drama.

One thing I came to appreciate was how composed the Canyon AT4 feels when the going gets rough. Some trucks feel like they’re barely holding themselves together on rocky paths. The Canyon just digs in and keeps going. Its short overhangs and relatively tight wheelbase make it surprisingly nimble for its size. It’s not a full rock crawler, but it can go much further than most people will ever dare.

The frame-mounted steel skid plates, available trail camera views, and optional front and rear e-lockers in the AT4X are further proof that GMC wants this truck to be taken seriously by off-roaders. It’s not just marketing fluff. It’s capability.

Interior: Function-First but Not Basic 

Inside, the Canyon AT4 mixes rugged materials with a few upscale touches. You’re not going to confuse it for a Denali or Sierra 1500, but that’s not the point.

The seats are comfortable and supportive, with unique AT4 stitching and materials that feel ready to be hosed off after a muddy adventure. The dashboard layout is clear and driver-focused, with physical knobs for volume and climate - thank you, GMC. The 11.3-inch touchscreen is responsive and pairs seamlessly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Google Built-in is standard, giving you maps, voice assistant, and more without needing your phone.

Storage space is smart. The center console is deep, and there are a few hidden storage bins throughout. There’s a sense that the interior was designed by someone who understands trucks, not just style.

That said, rear seat space could be better. If you’re over six feet tall, sitting in the back for more than 30 minutes will get uncomfortable. This is a Crew Cab, yes, but the legroom feels tighter than it should be. Is it a dealbreaker? Maybe not. But if you plan to carry adult passengers in the rear often, it’s worth sitting back there during your test drive.

And here’s something unexpected. While the AT4 is the Canyon’s rugged trail-eater, its more luxurious sibling, the Denali Crew Cab, also pulls off a surprising level of capability wrapped in upscale materials. If you think leather and trail duty can’t mix, you might want to reconsider. There’s an unusual overlap between luxury and utility that GMC somehow pulls off without making it feel forced. I took a deeper dive into what sets the Denali apart in this review of the 2023 GMC 4WD Canyon Denali Crew Cab Pickup. It’s worth a look if you’re weighing comfort against capability or trying to convince a hesitant partner that not all trucks feel like construction sites inside.

Bed and Utility: Small Touches That Add Up 

The Canyon’s short bed is only 5-foot-2, which is pretty standard in this segment unless you go with an extended cab. But what makes it stand out is how cleverly designed the bed is.

There’s a built-in bed step at each corner of the bumper, a 12-volt outlet, and LED lighting to make loading gear at night easier. The tailgate has an integrated storage compartment, which is great for tools or tow straps. And with a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, this truck is no slouch when it comes to actual work.

The mid-size market has become a lot more versatile in the past few years. And the Canyon AT4 is a strong example of a truck that isn’t just for one niche. It’s not just a showpiece or just a workhorse. It’s surprisingly good at balancing both.

On the Road: A Confident, Controlled Drive 

On pavement, the 2025 Canyon AT4 behaves better than I expected. Body roll is well-contained. The steering has good weight without being fatiguing. And that same high-riding stance that helps on the trail doesn’t compromise highway stability.

There’s some wind noise at higher speeds, and the ride is understandably firm, especially with the off-road tires. But compared to older mid-size pickups, this truck feels refined. You wouldn’t hesitate to take it on a multi-hour road trip. And you’d arrive confident that you could explore whatever terrain is on the other end.

Fuel Economy: Acceptable, Not Great 

With all this power and capability, there’s always a tradeoff. The 2025 Canyon 4WD AT4 is rated at 16 MPG city/highway and combined, but depending on configuration, these MPG numbers can change. That’s not great by modern standards, but it’s about average for an off-road-focused truck. If fuel economy is your top priority, this isn’t your truck. But for those who want off-road grit with real performance, the tradeoff is understandable.

Now if you're looking at the Canyon AT4 and wondering how it stacks up against the new hybrid trucks entering the scene, there's an unusual but important comparison to consider. Toyota’s 4th-generation Tacoma with the i-FORCE hybrid powertrain is pushing boundaries by blending serious torque with unexpected fuel savings. One Tacoma owner shared his real-world experience with that system, describing how it feels powerful when it matters and efficient when it counts. If you're curious about how GM’s turbo four compares to Toyota’s latest hybrid evolution, check out this insightful piece on the i-FORCE hybrid Tacoma experience. It might challenge what you think a modern off-road truck should prioritize.

1. AT4 vs AT4X: Which One Should You Really Get?

The 2025 Canyon lineup includes both the AT4 and the more extreme AT4X, and if you’re reading this review, you’re probably wondering if it’s worth stretching the budget to get the top-tier version.

The AT4, which I tested, gives you great off-road capability right out of the box. It includes a 2-speed transfer case, off-road suspension tuning, all-terrain tires, and solid trail geometry. For most weekend adventurers, mountain bikers, overlanders, and hunters, it’s more than enough, and you’ll save a few thousand dollars compared to the AT4X.

But if you're eyeing serious rock crawling or extended off-grid travel, the AT4X gives you more specialized hardware. It includes Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear electronic locking differentials, and rock sliders that double as armor. The AT4X also adds Baja mode, a more aggressive off-road drive setting. Think of the AT4X as GMC’s answer to the Ranger Raptor or Tacoma TRD Pro.

Here’s the key takeaway: If you’re doing moderate to heavy off-roading a few times a year, the AT4 hits a sweet spot. If you’re planning on tackling Moab-level trails or Baja-style speeds, consider the AT4X. But for most people, the standard AT4 will feel like a real upgrade without the AT4X price tag.

If you’re leaning toward the AT4X and wondering just how far GMC can push the off-road envelope, you should take a closer look at the AT4X AEV Edition. It’s the most extreme factory-built Canyon yet, and in some surprisingly thoughtful ways, it feels more like a purpose-built expedition rig than a dealership pickup. What’s unusual is how refined it still feels despite all the armor, clearance, and trail-first engineering. I shared more detailed thoughts after exploring that version in this story on the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition. If you’re the type who suddenly finds yourself turning dirt roads into full-blown adventures, you’ll want to see how it compares.

2. Technology Features That Matter for Real Truck Use

It’s easy to get lost in marketing terms like “digital cockpit” and “connected services,” so let’s break down what tech features in the 2025 Canyon AT4 are actually helpful especially for truck buyers who plan to use this vehicle for more than just commuting.

The 11.3-inch infotainment screen isn’t just large for the sake of being large. It’s functional. GMC has added off-road-specific readouts, pitch and roll displays, tire pressure monitoring for individual corners, and even trail camera views that let you see obstacles ahead and underneath. When you’r,e crawling over rocks or threading a tight trail, these features matter far more than premium audio or ambient lighting.

Also worth noting: wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is Google Built-in, which includes Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Play Store for additional apps. That means you can use a familiar mapping system with off-road trails loaded, even without cell service, provided you download them ahead of time.

The AT4 also includes GMC’s Safety Alert Seat, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, and blind spot monitoring. If you tow a trailer or travel in bad weather, those features don’t just add peace of mind - they’re genuine tools. This truck doesn’t overwhelm you with tech fluff. It gives you exactly what’s useful in a well-designed package.

3. Ownership Costs and Long-Term Considerations

Any time you’re shopping for a truck that feels premium and off-road-ready, it’s smart to think beyond the test drive. What does it cost to live with the Canyon AT4 day-to-day?

Let’s start with fuel economy. At 17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway (depending on the trim), it won’t win any efficiency awards. But this isn’t surprising given the aggressive tires, off-road suspension, and turbocharged power. If fuel savings are critical to you, a hybrid SUV may suit you better. But if you’re shopping for capability, this MPG is par for the course.

Maintenance-wise, the Canyon AT4 has a relatively simple engine layout - no twin turbos or hybrid components. That could mean lower long-term repair costs compared to some competitors. Also, because the 2.7L turbo engine is now shared across multiple GM vehicles, parts and service knowledge will be widely available, which is important if you plan to keep the truck long after the warranty expires.

Another factor is resale value. Historically, Toyota Tacomas hold their value better than anything else in the class. But the Canyon has been gaining ground, especially in off-road trims like the AT4 and AT4X, which are often in higher demand on the used market due to their rarity and capability. If you plan to sell in 5-6 years, this trim level could return more of your investment than a lower-trim or pavement-only truck.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Dismiss It Because It’s a GMC

There’s a stigma around the GMC brand in some circles. People see it as an in-between. Not as flashy as a Ford. Not as iconic as Toyota. But here’s the thing. The 2025 GMC Canyon AT4 isn’t trying to be something it’s not. It’s confident in what it is: a serious off-road tool that also works as a daily driver, with thoughtful touches and real capability that goes beyond the badge.

It challenged my expectations. It made me realize that not every truck needs to shout to prove its worth. Some trucks just deliver.

But don’t take my word for it. If you're in the market, test drive one. Sit in the back seat. Crawl under it and look at the protection. Climb into the cab and see if the height feels like a plus or a pain. And most importantly - take it off the pavement. That’s where the Canyon AT4 speaks the loudest.

• If you’re considering a mid-size truck, what matters more to you, badge loyalty or real-world capability?
• Would you trade a little rear seat room and rearview visibility for better trail readiness and torque?

Share your thoughts below. If you’ve owned or test-driven a Canyon, especially the AT4 or AT4X, let us know what surprised you - for better or worse.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.