If your truck needs allow for a light-duty 1/2-ton truck but you really like a diesel engine, GMC has announced what might be the perfect rig for you. Check out the 2024 Sierra AT4X. It comes with the 3.0L Duramax.
Designed with off-road capability, high-end technology, and an interior that screams comfort, the Sierra 1500 AT4X allows truck owners to venture further off-road with confidence and comfort. 2024 Sierra AT4X standard features include Multimatic DSSV dampers and front and rear e-locking differentials. When combined with the additional capability of the available AEV edition, you can make this the most off-road capable factory Sierra 1500 ever. The new AT4x does all this as well as deliver an upscale AT4X Obsidian Rush interior. That upscale interior gives you leather-wrapped front seats with massage capability, wood trim, a full-tilt Bose audio system, and more digital displays than you can shake a stick at.
2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (LZ0) Engine, Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel
But let’s get back to what’s under the hood, the 3.0L Duramax. The “BabyMax” was first introduced to the Sierra stable for the 2023 model year, the “Babymax” delivers increased power and torque for world-class on- and off-road capability in the AT4X.
The updated 3.0L Duramax engine comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and delivers 305 horsepower (a 10-percent increase compared to 2022 model year engines), and max torque of 495 lb-ft (a 7.6-percent increase from 2022).
“The 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine has long been a favorite of Sierra light-duty owners,” said Will Mellon, marketing manager, GMC Sierra. “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.”
2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab interior with leather-appointed interior seating in Jet Black.
The Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine’s advancements are made possible through several key component upgrades like new steel pistons with a revised combustion bowl, a retuned turbo compressor, and new fuel injectors.
“These refinements of the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine took an already awesome engine and made it even better for off-road applications,” said John Barta, GM assistant chief engineer, Diesel Engines. “The outstanding low-end torque combined with the smooth and quiet power of this diesel engine, make it ideal for customers requiring on-road capability for things like towing, as well as off-road adventures like long-distance overlanding.”
The Sierra also gives consumers power-retractable side steps and an active exhaust system is even available on some models. You also have wheel options and two fresh paint colors to choose from (Downpour Metallic and Thunderstorm Gray).
While the 3.0-liter Duramax might not be the powerhouse its big brother is, it is still a great engine for the average truck owner looking to enjoy the benefits of owning a diesel truck without the need for a heavy-duty chassis.
