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 3.5 5 cylinder - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By stonela25 - September 17 - 2:00 am

  I have always been a Ford truck man until I drove the GMC Canyon. It has a lot more interior space and the bed is bigger also. My Ranger had a V6 in it, and dont get me wrong it had plenty of power, but it comes no where close to the in line 5 cylinder. I am very pleased with the power and performance of this truck. Keep up the good work GMC.

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  Perfect Truck For Me - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By greencobra - September 1 - 2:00 am

  I was hooked after one test drive of the Z71 4x4. Rides and drives more like an SUV than a pickup. Little or no body roll around corners, and back end does not skip all around over rough pavement (or off-road) like my old 94 Silverado Z71. GM was right to sacrifice some towing capacity for better ride and handling. Folks who do serious towing and hauling are going to get a full size truck, anyway. This truck will perform any task most people will ever need, and is as comfortable as a car. I may not see the alleged 23 mpg, but I got a respectable (for 4x4) 19mpg on a recent trip at 75+ mph with air conditioning on, and the engine is not yet broken in.

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  2004 Canyon - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By Richard1 - August 31 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased a Canyon, was driving a Dakota. When I purchased this vehicle I was awhere that the truck was a bit smaller than the Dakota but they told me it was a comparible vehicle to the Dakota now after the purchase they are indicating that it is not a comparible vehicle. This truck is very light, tinny and a rattle can, it does not even come close to a Dakota. I am so sorry that I bought this vehicle but it is to late an now I will have to drive a vehicle that I do not like. The only thing that compares in this vehicle to the Dakota is the price. Are there other complains simliar. Thanks

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  blah - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By indigocanyon04 - August 13 - 2:00 am

  i love my truck!!!

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  Canyon - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By padfam - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Its to soon to make a complete review. Performance is not there. With the air on and four adults, there isnt any! I miss engine gauges. Oil,water,battery. With posi in the rear, it slips around in wet weather. Needs disc. brakes in back. I think that would help. I bought it to tow a 3100 pound boat. I think that was a mistake. Last veh. was 02 Envoy. It plenty of power,I had it in the shop 14 times. Dealer stated new model year problems.

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  best truck to get just like a full size - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By gmc2004canyon - July 25 - 2:00 am

  excellent off road and on the road

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  Good little truck - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By Truckgirl - July 25 - 2:00 am

  I have only had this truck for a week, but its really fun to drive. I previously owned a 1992 Nissan pickup and I really like the increased space and comfort of the Canyon. I got the basic truck, without any options, and was kind of disappointed at the lack of a couple of features. Since I did not see the specific truck prior to buying it, I was very disappointed that there was no keyed entry on the passenger side (I dont have power locks). This is an inconvenience if I need to load anything on that side. However, in spite of that, I think I will enjoy the Canyon for many years.

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  Awesome truck! - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By EMT5532 - July 23 - 2:00 am

  Im very happy with my new Canyon. Its a great truck, which really fills a void for GMC, as the Sonoma was just too small, and the full size trucks are too big and hard on gas. Overall, an awesome truck, a real pleasure to drive!!

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  This is a Great Truck - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By Parr4 - July 16 - 2:00 am

  So far this truck has exceeded my expectations. Its extremely quiet(no road noise), good gas mileage, the engine is powerful and quiet. Its perfect for what most people need a truck for: like running to Home Depot or Lowes to get needed materials for home projects. Pulling a boat or going hunting, camping etc. Theres plenty of room in the crew cab model. I have two kids and when we go out of town, we load up and go in the truck. Overall, I couldnt be happier with this vehicle. Ive been surprised because I have not seen too many on the road, but I think that will change after word gets out on just how good this truck is.

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  Lives up to GMC quality and performance - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By jojosmoochy - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I opted for the the 3.5l engine and it is awesome. Lots of power. This vehicle has a smooth ride not like some trucks. Researched and test drove all the competitors in this class and liked this one best. Great quality for the price tag. Very satisfied with my choice.