Earlier this month, the 2021 GMC Canyon AT4 was revealed as a replacement for the Canyon All Terrain. The new truck is more than just a few cosmetic upgrades (which look great, by the way). GMC added an off-road-tuned suspension with Advanced Hill Descent Control, a four-wheel-drive system with an Eaton G80 Rear Automatic Locking Differential, and 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires covering 17-inch wheels. The interior benefitted from upgraded Kalahari stitching and an 'AT4' headrest embroidery.

There was, however, another key ingredient GMC didn't announce: the AT4 Off-Road Performance Edition Package. GM Authority has not only learned of its existence but also some key details.

The exterior will come with 17-inch gloss-black aluminum wheels, a spray-on bedliner, Black AT4 badges, performance exhaust tip, front and mid-performance skid plates, and off-road rocker protection. A front leveling kit is also part of the package, as are all-weather floor liners for the interior. This is in addition to everything the Canyon AT4 already offers.

All other mechanical features are carried over from the outgoing Canyon All Terrain, including the standard 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower that's paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.8-liter turbo diesel with 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque is connected to a six-speed slushbox.

Unfortunately, photos and pricing for the new package are not yet available, but we expect an official announcement relatively soon. However, this does not mean the launch date is immediate. Sources also claim production for the 2021 GMC Canyon AT4 won't get underway until the middle of this year. Looking even further ahead, word has it GM is working on successors for the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon twins, though they're not expected until 2023, at the earliest.

The 2021 model year refresh for both trucks should be sufficient enough to fight back against new competition, specifically the Ford Ranger and Jeep Gladiator.