2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X Gets More Efficient Duramax Diesel Option

Apr. 05, 2023 2:17 PM ET by Jared Rosenholtz Engine / 4 Comments

It even gets more power and torque.

There is a new engine available for the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X and it does not run on gasoline. GMC will now offer its rugged and luxurious AT4X with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six as standard equipment. The Duramax is updated with 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque, increases of 10% and 7.6%, respectively. This same engine is also available in the Silverado ZR2, which offers similar off-road capability. Fuel economy isn't available from the EPA yet, but we imagine the diesel will be the most efficient AT4X available.

As a reminder, the outgoing diesel engine produced 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Of course, AT4X buyers can still opt for the 6.2-liter gasoline V8, which develops 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. Both engines send power through a 10-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options in the Sierra 1500 include the 5.3-liter EcoTec V8 and the 2.7-liter Turbo High-Output four-cylinder, which will now be known as TurboMax. It produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft.

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General Motors was able to extract more output from the Duramax engine using new steel pistons with a revised combustion bowl, new fuel injectors, a retuned turbo, and improved temperature control. We loved this engine in the Chevrolet Suburban, so we can't wait to try it with even more power and torque.

"These refinements of the 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. "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."

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"The 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."

GMC will build the engine at its Flint Engine Operations plant in Michigan with availability on the 2024 Sierra 1500 AT4X later this summer. Along with the updated diesel engine, other changes to the 2024 Sierra 1500 include power-retractable assist steps (for Denali, Denali Ultimate, AT4, and AT4X), available active exhaust (for Denali, Denali Ultimate, AT4, AT4X, and SLT), two new wheel designs, and two new paint colors called Downpour Metallic and Thunderstorm Gray.

GMC did not release pricing but we expect that will be announced closer to this summer's on-sale date.