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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  Beter new than old - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By Jammer - July 20 - 10:14 pm

  I love this truck. I have had an S10 crew cab for 3 years and traded it in as soon as I drove this one. The power is more than enough for a smaller pickup. The truck is not made for large towing but it does handle my 2 ATVs on a trailer just fine. Gas mileage is much superior to my old S10, about a 20% increase, and it isnt even broken in yet. The interior is typical GMC, but I like it simple. Stereo, and interior controls are easy to use and understand. The rear doors give good access to the extended cab which has almost as much room as my old crew cab did! The handling is superb, crisp and the acceleration is miles above my old one. If you like your S10, do yourself a favor and buy a new Canyon.

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  2005 Canyon crew - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By David - July 18 - 10:52 pm

  Seat comfort is substandard. Love the overall design. Gas mileage is to be expected from a 4 wheel drive. Stereo sounds good, but I really hate the auto volume.

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  2005 GMC Canyon - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By krushrr - July 3 - 3:32 pm

  I went with the GMC Canyon for the bucket seats over the Chevy Colorado and look of the GMC. I thought about the Toyota briefly but the Canyon/Colorado stole the show. The truck is a 4WD Extended Cab with the 5 cylinder 3.5L engine option and automatic transmission.

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  GMC Canyon Underrated! - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By RT - June 20 - 9:36 pm

  My 2005 GMC Canyon Crew Cab (with all the goodies) has been a superb performer: reliable, comfortable, and substantial. Fit and trim are good on the upgraded version with leather seats, etc. (not excellent, but good). The Canyon offers a sun /moonroof which is a must for me, an on-going convertible owner in California. Ive owned Fords for the last twenty+ years (including F-150 & Rangers) and I remain a Ford fan. However, this GMC Canyon is encroaching on that favored status. The low-speed torque is lacking somewhat in this 3.5l truck. But, to me its not big deal. The auto transmission is smooth, as is the 5-cyl. engine. The DRLs are a great safety feature.

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  Excellent Pick! - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By prpljett - June 5 - 3:53 am

  I shopped around through many dealerships and test drove all the pickups available and this one suited my needs. I got a good deal and Im extremely happy with my purchase. This is a gorgeous truck!

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  GMC canyon disapointment - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By pman - May 23 - 1:21 am

  I have a vibration at 48-54 mph, which is considered normal by GMC. Fuel mileage with the 4 cylinder averages 15-19 mpg at best. No adjustmets for the seat backs, no exterior key lock for passenger door. not much help from GMC. Its probably the last GMC vehicle I will buy.

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  Love my Canyon - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By chris - May 13 - 5:15 pm

  I have had this truck for two months now and I love it. The ride is smooth and comfortable. I have had nothing but compliments from everybody thats seen it. The back seat is very roomy considering its a truck.

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  Beter then my tacoma by far - 2009 GMC Canyon
  By John Atmallis - May 5 - 8:36 pm

  Performance was based on the fact that it is a truck and a 4cyl. It is not fast or a sports car but for what it is performed great. quicker and holds the rode better then my Tacoma that is newer and has a 6 cyl in it and hasnt ever left me stranded or not start like my Tacoma continues to do.

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  Why I dont want to keep the truck I bought! - 2016 GMC Canyon
  By Mike Butchart - April 14 - 5:00 pm

  I a the owner of a 2016 GMC Canyon pickup truck. It is a quite loaded SLT model and was purchased after the 2015 model I ordered was lost. The warrantees and maintenance payment policies for GM vehicles changed between 2015 and 2016 . I mentioned this to General Motors explaining my displeasure with this . They had indicated that they would honor this with me but phone calls to them got me nowhere. I had to bring the vehicle back to the dealer five times as the key was left in the ignition and would not come out. Communication with General Motors about this was poor as they never answer their phone and finally called me offered an extended warranty but would not give anything in writing. I traded this vehicle for another vehicle (leased for my spouse) point and have replaced this pickup with a Honda Pilot.

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  I love this truck - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By chris - April 13 - 6:04 pm

  I have only had this truck for about a month now but it has already seen snow and hauled some mulch and dirt. It handles great and the drive is smooth. It is very roomy and comfortable. I wanted the interior room to take adults with me. Seats 5 easily. I really enjoy driving it.