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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  2009 Canyon new 5.3 ltr. V-8 - 2009 GMC Canyon
  By Jack - January 2 - 8:24 pm

  Traded my 06 Canyon for a hard to find 09 V-8 model. Was worth the effort. Lots of power, z71 package holds it in the road. Fun to drive and growls.

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  Not a Yota - 2007 GMC Canyon
  By Wtxunit33 - December 31 - 5:34 pm

  Always owned Toyotas bought this because it was cheap, and had a lot of power out of the 4 cylinder. Motor is weak, unless heavily gouged. A lot of cheap features inside, check engine light comes on all the time, cheap plastic bumper cracked and fell off. Seat in uncomfortable at best. Lot of cab room but the cheap interior kinds of kills that

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  Engine /electrical problems - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By marc - October 23 - 1:06 pm

  After purchase it was noted to have bad water leakage on the passager side under the dash that shorted out the OnStar system and caused the computer to error. Problem was found to be a bad lead seam over the windshield. Computer error causes one of the cylinders to runs rich, crack in exhaust manifold, now getting only 11 mpg. Remote failure also, attempted to open the door with key and found that the tumblers in the door and back gate had been missed keyed. Lots of problems with remote entry system and electrical connectors under vehicle rusting loss of plate lights and other exterior lights. Vehicle only 18 month old and GM providing little help.

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  Frustrated with Canyon - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By Kristen - October 14 - 7:07 pm

  Wow! What frustration with this truck. I love the looks of it and wanted it to be the best. However, its been to the shop at least 10 times. At 25,000 the engine and head went bad so they put a new one in. Luckily it was under warranty. Now, at 65,000 miles the head is bad again! Within 25,000 miles, the brakes and tires needed replaced. Like others Ive noticed the air conditioning system is not good and doesnt cool very well. In addition, my CD player is broke. Ive done every suggested GM service at the mileage marks to keep it in top shape but it didnt work. Im in the process of looking for a new truck and contacting GM. Very dissappointing!

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  Too Tall Truck - 2016 GMC Canyon
  By Jorge McKie - September 25 - 2:26 pm

  The best improvement they could make would be to lower the body by at least 3 inches. I really doubt anyone needs the clearance it has. I drive graveled and dirt back roads and go some rough places and dont need the height. That makes it difficult for many [I have a bad leg] to get in and out easily. AT the risk of voiding my warranty Im seriously considering lowering it myself. I test drove one with a step and it really didnt help much. Other than that it is an excellent buy. More than one friend has said that it rides better than most cars. Even my wife is jealous of the ride. UPDATE: Still a great ride but now I have back problems and getting and out is very difficult. After more than a year Im generally pleased but still feel it could be 3 inches or 4 maybe lower. And watching for other Canyons Ive decided it is the choice for people who want to drive a truck or be seen driving a truck but not necessarily using it like a truck. I use it, but notice that most work trucks seem to be the Chevy version. Finally, I have a friend with a 40+K Toyota RAV4 who much prefers driving my Canyon. She says its a much better ride. I agree.

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  Stone - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By Pete Stone - August 7 - 8:08 am

  I have a 2005 Canyon with off road package and 3.5/5 cyl. eng. I have 46,000 mi on it and it has been a great truck. It rides smooth and has good power. I have a K&N air filter on it, a bed cover and I run full synthectic oil in it. I get 24-26 mpg if I keep it at 70 MPH. I drove it at 65 MPH and got 27.6 which is great. I think for the money it is the best mid size truck out there and Ive driven them all. With the V8 option in 2009 no other mid-size truck will be able to touch it. I reccomend the Canyon especially with the Off Road package.

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  Nice Truck for the Money - 2016 GMC Canyon
  By dave brown - August 6 - 4:46 pm

  Nice truck handles well. Priced right so far so good

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  Owned lots of vehicles, this one is best - 2004 GMC Canyon
  By A.P. - July 27 - 11:44 pm

  I have had my vehicle since 2004, it is black, 4WD, and extended cab feature. Previously owned the Sonoma, and this truck is a big improvement. I added these features to the truck: 1.) sprayed in bedliner. 2.) alarm system, remote engine start. It has given me no trouble whatsoever, and has stood by my through thick and thin. Gas mileage is very good, has the slant 5 engine, gets 18 miles to gallon in city.

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  Good All-Around Truck - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By Dan - July 22 - 3:16 pm

  I traded a 2002 Blazer for my 05 Canyon. The Canyon has great mileage for a 4x4 truck interstate travel is about 24mpg, 19mpg around town. My 3.5L I-5 does great for fuel but compromises in towing. Pennsylvania winters are no problem, it does great in a lake effect snow storm! At 76,000 I havent had any major work outside of normal wear and tear. I drive the truck everyday and it fits my lifestyle great, including many outdoor activities. I try to not use it like a work truck. I still get compliments at the gas pump! Speaking for the crew cab, I would highly recommend this truck

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  Heck of a truck - 2006 GMC Canyon
  By 2006 gmc crew cab - June 25 - 11:05 pm

  I picked this up in March of 06 and immeadiately took it on a trip, getting mid to high 20s in MPG. Other than regular maintenance, it has never had any work done on it. I previously had a 2001 GMC Sonoma 4x4. This truck is 2wd, saving gas. Since then, I have taken many trips with this vehicle, and the truck has performed extremely well! I plan to replace it with another one just like it when my lease is up. The Japanese makers can keep their trucks!