2026 GMC Sierra EV: Adventure Ready with New AT4 Model
The electric pickup truck market is no longer a novelty; it’s a competitive landscape. Several models are vying for attention, and the 2026 GMC Sierra EV is positioning itself to stand out. With updates arriving for the 2026 model year, including an off-road-oriented AT4 trim, the Sierra EV aims to challenge competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Chevrolet Silverado EV.
The Sierra EV initially launched for 2024 with a single trim and battery option. The 2025 model year saw the addition of a second battery choice. Now, for 2026, GMC has broadened the range to include three trims and three battery configurations, offering buyers more choices.
Previously, the Sierra EV buyer was limited to the Denali trim, known for its luxurious interior. The 2026 Sierra EV introduces the Elevation and AT4 trims. This expansion not only provides more options but also lowers the starting price, potentially attracting more customers considering an electric pickup.
While still a premium vehicle, the Elevation model with the Standard Range battery starts at $62,400 which is a significant reduction from the roughly $90,000 starting price of the 2025 Sierra EV Denali. The Elevation comes equipped with a 16.8-inch touchscreen and GM’s MultiPro Tailgate, which allows for convenient loading. The Elevation is also available with the MultiPro MidGate, which extends the bed to accommodate items up to 11 feet long. You can also choose the Extended Range battery, raising the starting price to $70,600.
The most significant upgrade for 2026 is the debut of the AT4 model, designed for off-road enthusiasts. This positions the Sierra EV favorably against electric pickups from Ford and Chevy, which currently lack a dedicated off-road trim in their lineups.
Like all Sierra EV models, the AT4 boasts four-wheel drive. Distinguishing features of the AT4 include a lifted coil suspension, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and four-wheel steering, including Crabwalk, which enables diagonal movement. A terrain mode is also available to boost maneuverability and torque during off-roading, integrated with one-pedal driving and automatic braking. The AT4 also features the best ground clearance in the lineup, at 10 inches.
The AT4 model is available exclusively with the Extended Range battery, contributing to its higher starting price of $79,300. For buyers seeking the Max Range battery (unavailable in the Elevation trim), the AT4 model has an MSRP of $89,600.
The Sierra EV Denali remains the most luxurious and expensive trim, offering features like a panoramic glass roof and an air ride suspension with adjustable ride height, which are not available in other models. The Denali is only available with all three battery options. It starts at $69,700 with the Standard Range, $77,900 with the Extended Range, and $98,600 with the Max Range.
All Sierra EV models share the 11-cubic-foot frunk. Horsepower ranges from 625 to 760, depending on the trim and battery selected. The Elevation and Denali trims offer greater towing and hauling capabilities than the AT4, with a maximum tow rating of 12,500 pounds and a maximum payload of 2,250 pounds. The AT4 presents a max tow rating of 12,300 and 1,950, respectively.
Super Cruise technology, which allows for hands-free driving in certain situations, is optional in the Elevation and standard in the other models.
Range is a key consideration for electric vehicles. While GMC has not yet released range estimates for the new Sierra EV, the 2025 model offers up to 390 miles with the Extended Range battery and 460 miles with the Max Range. The Sierra EV features 800-volt DC fast charging, allowing it to add up to 100 miles of range in about 10 minutes, though specific figures vary by trim.
With these updates, GMC intends to set the Sierra EV apart from its competitors in the electric truck segment, with the 2026 model aiming for the top spot.
