The GMC Canyon is a small pickup truck that shares bones with the Chevrolet Colorado and competes against the Ford Ranger, the Honda Ridgeline, and the Toyota Tacoma.

What’s New for the 2023 GMC Canyon

The GMC Canyon and its sibling, the Chevrolet Colorado, are fully redesigned for 2023 after making the previous generation last since 2015. The AT4X model is all-new and introduces what GMC is treating as an AT4X sub-brand of off-road-ready vehicles. Fresh exterior and interior design complement a new powertrain lineup and new technology options for a more competitive offering in the growing small and midsize truck segment.

Design

The new Canyon is higher and wider than its predecessor, which results in a look that’s brash, bold, and nicely sculpted without overdoing it—for the most part. The emphasis is on practicality, and it works well. Base models look capable and understated, while off-road trims come ready for action right off the showroom floor and can be upgraded with LED lighting, beefy beadlock-capable wheels fitted with all-terrain tires, underbody and rocker panel protection, and bumper guards. Denali models are upscale and sophisticated with LED lighting and elegant chrome trim that’s perfectly balanced to avoid looking tacky.

Powertrain

The new GMC Canyon shares its powertrain with the new Chevrolet Colorado. It’s a robust yet relatively efficient 2.7-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, rated for 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) comes standard, and four-wheel drive (4WD) is available. With the Canyon, GMC introduces Baja, Terrain, Off-Road, Normal, and Tow/Haul modes. Various suspension upgrades are available for enhanced off-roading capability. The Canyon can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped.

Interior

The new Canyon’s cabin is functional yet elegant, offering near-luxury design and finishes. Every trim level gets a unique treatment, with base models offering practicality and comfort across all five seats. The AT4X model features exclusive Obsidian Rush upholstery with Ceramic White accents, while the Denali features premium leather and laser-etched wood trim. Unlike full-size pickup trucks, the Canyon is available in only one cab and bed configuration.

Technology

The 2023 Canyon comes with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 11-inch version is available. There’s also an available 11.3-inch infotainment display and 6.3-inch head-up display (HUD). Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. The Canyon is also available with 10 camera views, including waterproof underbody cameras for unique views while off-road driving. An available off-road performance display gives drivers real-time information about their current trail-driving excursion.

Safety

As of this writing, crash-test results have not been published for the 2023 GMC Canyon. GMC’s standard safety package for the Canyon incorporates forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking with cyclist detection, a following-distance indicator, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Higher trim levels are offered with rear cross-traffic alert and braking, blind-zone steering assist, rear pedestrian alert, a surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, and a vibrating safety alert seat.

Pricing

The 2023 GMC Canyon is scheduled to enter production in early 2023, with the AT4X model to follow in the spring for slightly later estimated availability. As of this writing, GMC says starting MSRP for the Canyon will be about $40,000, and the Canyon AT4X Edition 1 starts at $63,350.