Drivers know the GMC Canyon AT4 off-road truck was born to be unleashed on the nearest trail.

But what happens when GMC takes this truck even further to show why it is right for those who like to play rough in the middle of nowhere? You get the Canyon AT4 Concept.

This no-compromise pickup is equipped from grille to gate with premium off-road features and gear meant to embrace the spirit of the great outdoors. These accessories were either developed specifically by GMC or are from leading names in the off-road aftermarket industry.

“Our mission was to build a GMC Canyon AT4 based overland vehicle capable of taking people and gear off the grid, with the tools necessary to be comfortable and self-sufficient in remote locations,” said GMC Senior Creative Designer for Performance, Motorsports and Accessories John Owens. “We wanted to show owners what is possible, starting with such a capable vehicle and hopefully inspiring owners to build the AT4 of their dreams.”

Ratcheting up the rugged looks and powerful capability of Canyon AT4 to create a one-of-a-kind concept pickup, capable of helping you be totally self-reliant in the great outdoors, takes a know-how of overlanding.

That’s why the team behind this build included several off-road enthusiasts within GMC.

“We leveraged the experiences of the entire team to come up with solutions to challenges typical of this type of build,” Owens said. “This GMC AT4 Concept could tackle some of the most challenging trails loaded with gear, while at the same time, providing a high level of comfort and premium features — whether it be on the trail or once arrived at the destination. It strikes the right balance of capability and premium comfort, befitting of the GMC brand.”

To start, the Canyon AT4 Concept was equipped with front and rear electronic locking differentials, and AEV’s Crestone Dualsport Wheels that have Beadlock Rings, which increase traction by allowing the tires to function at very low pressure. The wheels themselves are wrapped by beefy 33-inch BFG Mud-Terrain tires for added grip.

The increased outside diameter of these off-road tires also meant finding a location for a full-size spare. As opposed to mounting the spare in the truck bed, a custom swivel mount for the rear of the truck was designed by GMC. This solution gave the second benefit of reserving the truck bed for gear.

The front bumper is another unique concept design, and includes an integrated winch and LED lighting to illuminate trails at night. Additional lighting was even incorporated into the black wheel flares.

Accessory rock sliders adorn both sides of the Canyon AT4 Concept to help provide protection in rugged environments. Even the rear bumper is meant for going off-road. Other custom features are the guide lines to help protect the windshield from low hanging branches, and a concept snorkel intake.

These functional add-ons aren’t the only reason why the Canyon AT4 Concept would be a standout on the street or trail. The exterior possesses a rugged sporty look with a unique body paint that is matched with a darkened grille and GMC badging, as well as red Recovery Rings^† on the front and rear.  

There would be no need to go far for comfort if you were miles away from the everyday with the Canyon AT4 Concept’s wide array of outdoor gear, supplied by aftermarket accessory companies.

This equipment includes a rooftop tent that can be set up on the concept pickup’s bed cap, offering plenty of room for a good night’s sleep. The bed cap, meanwhile, not only provides storage for gear but has an integrated kitchen to cook up a delicious meal. There’s even a dining table that can be neatly stowed away when you’re done. On the opposite side of the cap is storage for jerrycans and traction boards.

Additional gear and tools can be kept handy in the storage system, located under the cap in the bed. There’s even a fridge with portable lithium battery and solar charging system to keep food and drinks cold. And when you want to just kick back and relax, the 270-degree awning gives plenty of shelter from the sun.

“The Canyon AT4 Concept would have the ability to take you miles off the grid out of the reach of cell service, while at the same time, providing the amenities that make it seem as if you transported the best parts of your home into the wilderness,” Owens said. “The result is a vehicle that could reset your state of mind and allow you to fully enjoy spending time in nature.”