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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Great 3.5 Liter RWD Canyon - 2004 GMC Canyon
By Ben Craft - July 14 - 2:00 amGreat Extended Cab with well designed interior. Very quiet inside and engine is quiet too. Air-Conditioning blows cool! Peppy 3.5 engine without loss of mpg. Bucket seats are very comfortable and adjustable. Extended cab gives plenty of storage room and occasional passenger room. Crisp looking exterior. Solid steering and "safe" feel in crosswinds.
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All-new and fun to drive - 2005 GMC Canyon
By KangarouxKid - June 30 - 2:00 amThis new GMC Canyon fits the need for a good-sized truck with excellent fuel economy. In light of what I believe to be permanently high fuel prices, economy of operation is important. The truck is comfortable and quiet.
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awesome - 2004 GMC Canyon
By Sal Ammander - June 21 - 2:00 amthis is a great little truck
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Aint that Canyon grand? - 2004 GMC Canyon
By Noble Pelican - June 13 - 2:00 amI have to say that the 2004 GMC Canyon is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I have had the full sized Jimmy and the smaller Sonoma, but they dont even come close. Its very reliable ( only a quickly fixed battery light ) and drives like a dream. The XM Radio and stereo system are fantastic additions. I can blast out a song or calmly listen to an instrumental one without outside noise interference. The Inline 5 Vortec engine is smooth and does have power. The look of the vehicle from the front has gotten lots of favorable comments and I cant tell you how many times people have stopped in a parking lot to look at it.
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Great over all truck - 2016 GMC Canyon
By Paul - June 11 - 9:14 pmGood fuel milage between 20 and 27 Great turning radius Comfortable A enjoyably ride overall Was involved in a accident where hit in passenger front tire and flipped on it side and was totaled My son in passenger front seat and I both walked away with minor injuries Thankfully Onstar great to have
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Eye for a Detail - 2004 GMC Canyon
By RaginCajun - May 31 - 2:00 amI really analyzed what I used my previous truck for. I really didnt haul any large loads in the back bed, nor did I pull a trailer with a heavy load. I mainly used it to commute to work, haul my family around, recreation, go hunting, etc. This truck fit as close to perfect as possible. Its not too bulky, nor a tinker-toy. So far, Im very satisfied with the truck.
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Best in its Class - 2004 GMC Canyon
By Simple Truck - May 27 - 2:00 amI have been shopping for a crew cab Canyon for about ten months. They are very difficult to get, especially in 4wd. I have owned two S-10s in the past. I also test drove the following crew cab trucks: Dakota, Tacoma, and the Frontier. You will not find a better truck for the money. Do yourself a favor and at least go drive one.
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2004 Crew Cab Canyon - 2004 GMC Canyon
By Tab123 - May 17 - 2:00 amI have owned my CrewCab 2wd caynon for 2months.I Love this truck.It drives like a nice car has lots of room the leather seats are comfortable for long road trips.I avg 21mpg around the city of Charlotte and have avg 25 onthe highway.I highly recomend this truck over compatable models.
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Great Value - 2004 GMC Canyon
By Lovelldog - May 13 - 2:00 amI love this truck. It doesnt ride as well as a full size but is still much better than the Tacoma or Frontier.
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damn good truck - 2004 GMC Canyon
By claycm18 - April 27 - 2:00 ami got the 3.5L engine, you should too it is great This is a tough truck
