Trucks nowadays are getting increasingly luxurious, and this trend has even trickled its way down to the mid-sized segment. The truck responsible for this is perhaps the GMC Canyon which in essence is a luxury version of the Chevrolet Colorado.
In the past, the Canyon was a subpar effort at luxury. It was a more expensive version of its Chevrolet counterpart that used mostly the same materials but with a more luxurious spin. This made the truck feel cheap and lackluster. However, the new model redeems itself by offering great features, amazing materials, and class-leading capabilities.
This truck is a proper luxury model now and we believe it deserves an article focusing on its many positives but also some of its negatives. So, here is an overview of what you will love and hate in this new S-Class of the mid-sized truck segment.
It Is Only Offered In One Cab Configuration
Firstly, let’s get the negatives out of the way as they are far less than the positives. Although it is available across four trims, with either two or four-wheel drive, just like with the Chevy Colorado, the GMC Canyon is only offered in only one cab configuration which includes a double cab body with a five-foot bed. Now, this in itself isn’t bad.
In fact, it is the most common bed and cab configuration chosen by buyers. However, what is a slight negative is the lack of choices. There will be some buyers out there who would prefer a different layout. That being said, this configuration offers space both in the bed but also in the cabin.
The Headlight Controls Are Buried Inside The Infotainment Screen
You know how modern-day vehicles are, every single control and function seems to be buried inside the infotainment system instead. GMC decided that for the Canyon, it would be a good idea to remove the headlight stalk altogether and just integrate the light controls in the infotainment system.
To us, this doesn’t make much sense. The controls aren’t difficult to find and according to GMC, this was done because the vehicle has automatic headlights and high beams. However, we still believe that the headlights are an important control that requires quick access and should not be inside a screen menu.
The GMC Canyon Only Offers A Single Engine Option
Our final gripe is the fact that the GMC will only be offered with a single-engine option. Just like the bed, the option itself isn’t bad. In fact, it is great; however, buyers will lack the freedom of choice between a torquey diesel or a more efficient hybrid. Unlike in the Colorado where you get the 2.7-liter four-cylinder turbo in two states of tune, the Canyon is only available with the high output. Having said that, this little powerhouse is so good that it even makes its way into the larger Sierra trucks.
Power ratings are 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque with all models mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. One slight concern here is the fact that the new Tacoma will be released with a hybrid option which will perhaps be both more powerful and more efficient. This might prove to be a hurdle in the GMC’s sales figures. But, enough with the cons, let’s have a look at what we love about this truck.
The GMC Canyon Looks And Functions Perfectly
One of the biggest pros of the GMC Canyon is not just the way it looks but also the way it performs when it comes to towing and hauling. In AT4X trim, the Canyon sits three inches higher than a normal two-wheel drive version. Also, it features bigger tires and a wider stance with flared arches. This makes the truck look purposeful and aggressive.
However, looks aside, the exterior of the Canyon is also functional. The five-foot bed can haul 1,640 pounds and offers a 110v socket, tie-down points, and even a hidden compartment in the tailgate. It is safe to say that all the luxury features haven’t robbed the Canyon of its truckiness. Worth mentioning is the fact that the GMC currently offers a class-leading towing figure of 7,700 pounds. However, the upcoming Tacoma and Ranger might be able to top that.
It Offers Outstanding Off-Road Features
The top-of-the-line AT4X package is one of the most capable mid-sized trucks the market has ever seen. In this trim level, buyers get a wide variety of off-road features. On the outside we have different bumpers that improve approach and departure angles, DSSV Multimatic suspension that ensures the wheels stay in contact with the ground for as long as possible, skid plates, recovery hooks, rock sliders, 33.0-inch all-terrain tires, beadlock-capable wheels, trail cameras, an off-road performance display, and even front and rear lockers. This is a truck that can easily compete against the very capable Gladiator Rubicon while also being incredibly luxurious.
The Interior Is Incredible
We have been talking about the luxury offered in this truck, but we haven’t touched on the actual luxurious part which is the interior. Well, that is because we have been leaving the best for last. Step inside the GMC Canyon and you will be greeted with a cabin that is reminiscent of a premium and luxurious SUV, not a truck.
The AT4X gets a top-of-the-line white leather dashboard accompanied by red accents which drastically elevates the premium feel of this cabin. This is no longer an afterthought like the old model was. The new GMC Canyon offers an interior that is full of soft-touch materials and leather.
Of course, leather isn’t the only luxury here. Heated and ventilated seats are available as well as a great 11.0-inch infotainment screen and a digital gauge cluster that is customizable. The infotainment screen is connected to several exterior cameras that provide a 360-degree view and even a low-mounted front view that makes choosing your lines off-road much easier.
While prices for the base two-wheel drive model in Elevation Trim carry a base MSRP starting at $38,395, things get quite pricey for the top-spec AT4X coming in at $56,995 before options. Now that is steep, especially when you consider that the Canyon is a mid-size pickup, but it certainly has one of the most upscale cabins in the class and the AT4X does pack a lot more hardware and capability.