Second Chances

When I first reviewed the GMC Sierra EV Denali back in November 2024, my assessment was quite critical. I noted that the truck's handling felt borderline unsafe in normal driving and described it as an unfinished effort overall. Now, more than a year later, the Sierra EV and I are meeting again to evaluate any updates. It turns out that many of the problems I highlighted during that initial test have been resolved or greatly improved on the AT4 off-road variant.

The Sierra EV AT4 Max Range is far from flawless. I still hold reservations about a vehicle of such size, and I would prefer more genuine off-road capability from this model. Even so, the improvements are clear. I no longer sense any risk while driving this truck, and although that sets a modest standard, the original Denali version did not meet it during my first experience.

We value progress at Jalopnik, and I hope the Sierra EV has evolved as much as I have over these 16 months.

Full Disclosure: GMC provided a fully charged 2026 Sierra EV AT4 for a week of unrestricted use, allowing me to load it with various items.

Stability Improvements

A primary issue with the Sierra EV Denali was its instability, particularly at higher speeds or during strong acceleration. While I cannot comment on the current Denali with its larger 26-inch wheels, the AT4 Extended Range corrects many of those concerns. It delivers less power than the Denali, producing 725 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque from its dual motors. This output still propels the roughly 8,800-pound vehicle from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds per independent tests. The Denali offers 760 hp and 785 lb-ft, shaving a few tenths off that time, but the difference is hardly noticeable in practice.

Pairing the reduced power with the AT4's taller sidewalls and wider 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires, its fixed suspension rather than air springs, and refined rear-steering calibration over two years results in much better road stability. The tires appear to play the largest role. The AT4's 18-inch wheels measure six inches smaller in diameter than the Denali's, with tires about 0.4 inches wider, creating a noticeable effect.

Physics remains unchanged, so this is no sports car, yet the Sierra EV AT4 avoids the Denali's tendency to shift lanes unexpectedly under hard acceleration. The steering may lighten slightly as the rear settles, but the coil springs handle this better than the Denali's air suspension.

Despite its off-road elements, the Sierra EV AT4 delivers excellent range. GM rates it at up to 478 miles per charge, and real-world results align closely. Higher speeds reduce that figure faster, but the 205-kWh battery provides ample capacity. Its 800-volt system supports charging up to 350 kW, adding about 100 miles in roughly 10 minutes on DC fast chargers. Reaching a full charge takes considerable time and expense depending on the station used.

Daily Driving Features

This represents a reasonable compromise, as the Sierra EV AT4 serves well as a daily driver when space allows. Super Cruise is included as standard, offering one of the strongest Level 2 hands-free driver-assist systems available. The seats provide good comfort, and cargo space is abundant. Even with the 5-foot-11 bed filled, an 11-cubic-foot power frunk offers extra storage. The technology is effective, highlighted by the 16.8-inch vertical infotainment display that is straightforward, includes physical controls for volume and climate, and allows easy customization. The 11-inch driver display is also strong, with map views and customization options, alongside a 14-inch head-up display and multiple cupholders.

Additional features include a standard panoramic sunroof, the MultiPro MidGate which functions as a useful novelty, and the MultiPro Tailgate that simplifies bed access during loading tasks. The 233.4-inch Sierra AT4 can also perform a crab-walk maneuver thanks to rear steering, which reduces its turning circle to an impressive 39.1 feet, though the feature is more entertaining than practical.

Driving modes are adjustable, with selectable one-pedal driving and a steering-wheel paddle for progressive regenerative braking. Rear steering can be disabled if desired, mainly for tight parking situations.

AT4 Trim Characteristics

The AT4 trim level explains much of the improvement over the earlier Denali. Switching to this package creates a significant difference. It does not represent a major sacrifice compared to the Denali. This remains primarily a soft-roader rather than a direct rival to models like the Ram 1500 TRX or Ford F-150 Raptor.

It functions largely as an appearance upgrade with enhanced tires, suspension, red tow hooks, and darkened trim. While more aggressive off-road tuning would be welcome, GMC appears to have focused on realistic usage patterns that rarely involve serious trails.

The AT4 includes 18-inch wheels with 285/75R18 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires and adds two inches of ground clearance over the base Elevation model, reaching 10 inches total and exceeding the Denali's air-suspension height. A dedicated Terrain mode provides more precise low-speed one-pedal control below 25 mph by coordinating motors and brakes, along with smoother throttle response and earlier rear-steering engagement for better maneuverability around its 145.7-inch wheelbase.

Pricing and Final Thoughts

Although the Sierra EV AT4 costs less than the Denali Max Range I tested previously, it remains expensive. The base Elevation starts at $65,490 including destination, but the AT4 Extended Range with its smaller battery and 390-mile range begins at $82,390. That version offers 625 horsepower, slower charging, and omits items like the panoramic sunroof and Midgate.

The AT4 Max Range, positioned just below the top Denali Max Range, starts at $92,195. My test vehicle added a $1,950 dealer-installed bed cover, reaching $94,145 as tested. Few other options exist beyond floor mats, organizers, and charging accessories, as most reviewed features come standard.

The Sierra EV AT4 reinforced the value of second chances. My original review was among my most critical, prompting strong feedback from GMC at the time. The AT4 demonstrates that vehicles continue to evolve after launch through ongoing refinements. Small adjustments to tires, suspension, and power output produced a substantial overall change.

The Sierra EV AT4 Max Range may omit some luxury features and advanced electronics of the Denali, but these differences do not prevent it from being a clear improvement.