Overview & Reviews

Though not as popular as full-size pickups, compact and midsize pickups fulfill an important role. For the many truck buyers whose towing and hauling needs don't require the capabilities of a full-size, these more nimble and fuel-efficient trucks are the perfect choice. GMC's entrant in this segment is the Canyon.

The GMC Canyon is handsome-looking, thanks to its square jaw and broad-shouldered stance, and its impressive crash test scores offer peace of mind to owners. It also offers available V8 power, a rare treat in this segment. When it comes to negatives, however, the Canyon is plagued with more than its fair share. For much of this truck's life, its standard four- and five-cylinder engines have been lacking in the power department, which has limited the truck's ability to comfortably haul cargo or tow heavy loads. Build quality is average at best, and many items within the truck's cabin feel flimsy and cheap.

Though the snazzy, affordably priced GMC Canyon will no doubt hold a certain charm for budget-conscious shoppers with an eye for style, we think most compact or midsize pickup truck buyers will be better served by more capable rivals like the Nissan Frontier or Toyota Tacoma.

Current GMC Canyon

Three configurations are available for the GMC Canyon: standard cab, extended cab and crew cab. Extended-cab and crew-cab models feature four doors; crew-cab Canyons have four standard-sized doors and a 60/40-split-folding rear seat that can seat three adults, while extended-cab versions offer two small reverse-opening doors and rear jump seats. Canyon crew cabs haul loads with a 5-foot bed, while the other two configurations get the job done with a bed that measures 6 feet.

Three trim levels are available: Work Truck (WT), SLE and SLT. WT models offer features like air-conditioning, cruise control and an AM/FM stereo. The Canyon SLE model adds an improved stereo and a more extensive options list, though power accessories are an extra-cost option on regular-cab SLEs (standard on extended-cab SLEs). The SLT steps it up with leather upholstery and power seats. There are also two optional suspension packages. The Z71 suspension improves the off-road performance of 4WD trucks, while the ZQ8 package for 2WD trucks enhances on-road handling and grip.

GMC Canyon buyers have a choice of three engines. A 2.9-liter inline four-cylinder produces 185 horsepower, and is standard on WT and SLE models. It comes with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder is more robust, offering 242 hp. Both a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission are available. The available 5.3-liter V8 cranks out 300 hp. Two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are offered; the 4WD system has a dual-range transfer case and push-button controls.

The GMC Canyon has met with middling reviews from our editors. Its interior has been criticized for being below average in build and material quality. Its engines, too, have been panned as lackluster, though the optional V8 is possibly the most enjoyable engine in the compact truck segment. In consumer reviews, owners have praised the truck for its stylish exterior and quiet ride, but have expressed reservations about its build quality. In sum, unless you can't live without V8 power in your midsize truck, there are better choices.

Used GMC Canyon Models

The GMC Canyon was launched for the 2004 model year. It debuted with less powerful engines: a 175-hp, 2.8-liter inline four-cylinder and a 220-hp 3.5-liter inline-5. The ZQ8 package didn't become available until 2006, and the five-cylinder engine received a power boost to current levels in 2007, along with a revised four-speed automatic transmission with better shift quality. The V8 engine option didn't debut until 2009; this was also the first year for stability control and satellite radio.

Consumers shopping for a used GMC Canyon would probably be wise to expand their search to include its corporate twin, the Chevrolet Colorado, which offers basically the same attributes.

User Reviews:

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  GMC Canyon 2004 - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By CentPADon - February 10 - 4:52 pm

  I have owned my GMC Canyon for two and a half years now. Ive found it to be a very reliable vehicle, with great distinctive styling that sets it apart from other offerings. When we take this vehicle on a trip, we average about 24mpg. I opted for the five cylinder, and I havent regretted it a bit. It has a lot of torque. Hauling with a bed full over heavy items is effortless. I get many, many compliments on the exterior styling and what a sharp looking truck it is.

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  Not to big not to small - 2006 GMC Canyon
  By Noru - February 4 - 9:03 am

  I have had my truck for almost one year. So far I have had no problem with this truck. It has a very smooth ride and feels very heavy duty. My gas mileage in town is around 17 city and 25 highway. I too don’t understand any complaint about the interior, as this is a truck and not a luxury sedan. I am looking forward to keeping this for the long haul.

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  Still satisfied after 2.5 yrs. - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By Don in PA - January 28 - 4:10 pm

  I remain very satisfied with my GMC. I especially like the distinctive styling that sets it apart from all other trucks currently offered. I receive compliments on a regular basis. Most people assume it is 4-wheel drive with the off road stance. Its been 100% reliable throughout, with more than ample power for everyday driving. Driving with a full load in the bed is effortless. Driving on a rough country road is very smooth and controlled. I like this truck, and would buy another.

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  So far so good - 2007 GMC Canyon
  By Chris - January 17 - 4:58 pm

  Overall an excellent vehicle. Very fun to drive. I expected a little bit better gas mileage given the 5 cyl. only getting 19 MPG, same as my full size truck got! interior comfortable front seat, wish the passager side seat had the lumbar support like the driver. The interior could have used some courtesy lighting for at night, cant find anything in the dark without having to turn on the dome light. Given the size of the competitors small trucks GM could have given the crew cab a longer bed than the 5 feet. I wish the rear seats had just a little more angle to the backs of the seats just a few degrees too vertical. Overall nice quiet ride. i would reccomend to others

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  My First Truck - 2006 GMC Canyon
  By DoninVirginia - December 10 - 8:40 am

  This is the first true truck that Ive owned (to distinquish it from the three SUVs that I previously owned). I can honestly say that Im very happy with my purchase. I bought it at end of model year, so the incentives and pricing were just too good to pass up. Some reviewers have complained that the interior is not as good as they thought it should be. I contend that this vehicle is not a sedan and, therefore, their expectations are not realistic. Im disappointed that the fog lamp button is not accessible through the light panel on an "after market" fog lamp installation. The gas mileage is also below expectations (likely due to wind drag from the tailgate).

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  Good But. - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By Jason - December 5 - 5:02 pm

  For a midsize pickup I have no great complaints. It is great for a light load, and has a slightly larger look to it than the previous S-10. With 30,000 miles on it, I have had no problems.

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  Excellent Mid-Sized Truck - 2017 GMC Canyon
  By Jon - December 4 - 10:34 am

  This is a base model Canyon, with no real features (were talking manual side mirror adjustments here), aside from the 308-hp V6 and towing package, and very basic convenience option, including cruise control, easy-left tailgate, and a few other basics. The only other option was the gray metallic paint... No navigation, no advanced sound system, no chrome, no leather - but the vehicle is absolutely gorgeous, and performs well as a daily driver that can also tow the boat or load up for a family outing, very pleased...

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  Most comfottable velicle Ive ever owned! - 2016 GMC Canyon
  By D.R. Steele - December 4 - 5:25 am

  2016 Models do not have a CD/MP3 player. I listen to a lot of books on CD. Now I have to convert to a thumb drive to listen. However, that is not to say that I dont love this truck. I travel extensively on business and hate airports - so...if its less that 12 hours, I drive. Ive owned Ford Tauruses in the past and I always thought they were a comfortable ride, until the Canyon. No fatigue, and I could drive it a long way without having a sore butt! Even my wife says it is more comfortable than her 2015 Buick Enclave! Im sold on this truck, even though I had wished that Ford had a mid-size! Fords loss!

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  The Works - 2006 GMC Canyon
  By we bought two - December 2 - 10:36 am

  Ive beaten this truck pretty good. It has the off-road package, so I did a little off-roading and the truck took it well. Plenty of clearance, handling is good, and more power than I needed to climb a 33 degree dirt hill with three other big guys in the cab. I have the I5 Vortec engine and a heavy foot my average mileage has been about 18.5. Straight highway is at 22 and city driving has been no worse than 17.5. I have read reviews where people say the interior feels cheap and I understand moving parts might feel that way, however, I think they misinterpret the molded plastic features that have a tight range of movement with little resistence adding to the fun and solid feel of the truck.

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  Consider this - 2006 GMC Canyon
  By Larry - November 30 - 5:42 pm

  Americans have gotten way too obsessed and spoiled with huge engines and interior options. I wanted a basic truck with adequate power and simple interior appointments. Bigger and more luxurious isnt always better. I have owned other trucks with more cubic inches and a lot more bells and whistles and so far I enjoy this truck more. It reminds me of the first truck I owned, a base Toyota 4WD SR5, only the Canyon now costs a lot less than Toyota....less is more!