2021 GMC Canyon Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
Although the GMC Canyon is mechanically related to the Chevrolet Colorado, the boxier Canyon is offered in a Denali grade with features like open-pore wood, a generous amount of chrome exterior trim, and higher quality leather upholstery. There's an off-road-oriented AT4 variant, but that model's upgrades are not as extensive as the ones found in the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2.
The Canyon is available with two cab styles and two bed lengths.
What's New
- The AT4 variant replaces the All Terrain trim. The Canyon AT4 gets 17-inch wheels shod with 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, 4WD, a rear locking differential, and a skid plate protecting the transfer case.
- Denali trim adds chrome side steps, revised chrome grille, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
What We Think
For a truck, the GMC Canyon drives surprisingly car-like. You don't expect a midsize pickup to have such refined road manners, especially with an empty bed. Accurate steering helps the pickup shrink around you, while a quiet cabin and secure handling make the GMC Canyon easy to drive daily.
The 3.6-liter V-6 provides plenty of power, but it's too bad the eight-speed automatic hesitates when you ask for downshifts. Choosing the available diesel engine improves the Canyon's drivability thanks to its extra torque, but that option is pricey. Although it doesn't offer the same level of off-road ruggedness as the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, the new Canyon AT4 looks badass, drives well on pavement, and we imagine it'd be plenty capable on the trail.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2021 GMC Canyon is offered with three engines.
Engine and Transmission: 2.5-liter I-4 - six-speed automatic
Power: 200 hp/191 lb-ft of torque
EPA-Rated Fuel Economy: 19/25 mpg city/highway (RWD); 19/24 mpg (4WD)
Engine and Transmission: 3.6-liter V-6 - eight-speed automatic
Power: 308 hp/275 lb-ft
EPA-Rated Fuel Economy: 18/25 mpg (RWD); 17/24 mpg (4WD)
Engine and Transmission: 2.8-liter turbodiesel I-4 - six-speed automatic
Power: 181 hp/369 lb-ft
Technology
The 2021 Canyon's infotainment system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher-end models get a larger 8.0-inch touchscreen (replacing the standard 7.0-inch unit) and built-in navigation. A Bose audio system and wireless charging are also offered.
Key Competitors:
