Trigger warning: Car content ahead!

GMC wants to take its Canyon AT4 offroad-oriented truck a step further. Or, it’s at least exploring the possibility, with the GMC Canyon AT4 Concept, an up-spec’d version of the mid-sized pickup.

When the Canyon AT4 debuted, it was seen as a step down from the Colorado ZR2 pickup; both trucks had the same 3.6L V6 engine (with 275 pound-feet of torque) on the same basic mid-sized chassis, but the AT4 isn’t quite as offroad-ready. It comes with 31-inch tires, trick-looking LED fog lamps,  hill descent control, 4×4 system with auto-locking rear diff, and suspension tune for offroad … but it’s not a trophy truck either, and not only does the AT4 model itself command a pricey premium, but upgrading parts to more offroad-ready factory options (or aftermarket) will cost you mucho denaro.

But, GMC seems to think people want that pricier, upgraded truck, and have now put together that Canyon AT4 Concept, beefed-up for even more aggressive offroad adventure. The project’s lead creative designer says the concept is “designed to balance functionality with aesthetics.” According to GMC’s press release, further farkles for the Concept version include:

GMC spec’d an eight-speed auto transmission to go with the V6 engine, and the concept also includes traction boards, an offroad jack and mount.

No doubt some, possibly many of those extras and farkles would be optional add-ons for the Concept if it ever made production, but GMC is keen to show what its design could be. Here’s what the presser says about the truck’s capabilities: The concept truck could confidently handle a variety of obstacles encountered far from civilization with a 27.7-degree approach angle and a ground clearance of 10.0 inches, boosted by 33-inch BFGoodrich KM3 Mud-Terrain tires on 17-inch AEV Crestone wheels. The vehicle could engage in water fording up to 32.1 inches, and its custom-tailored snorkel could allow for filtered and cooler air intake.

The concept truck could confidently handle a variety of obstacles encountered far from civilization with a 27.7-degree approach angle and a ground clearance of 10.0 inches, boosted by 33-inch BFGoodrich KM3 Mud-Terrain tires on 17-inch AEV Crestone wheels. The vehicle could engage in water fording up to 32.1 inches, and its custom-tailored snorkel could allow for filtered and cooler air intake.

There’s no word on production schedule, or even confirmation of production, at this point. Rest assured, it will be far more expensive than a Kawasaki KLR650 with milk crate luggage.