2019 GMC Canyon Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The GMC Canyon nameplate disappeared after 2012, but was quickly resurrected in 2015 with an all-new generation. For 2019, it gets some...

The GMC Canyon nameplate disappeared after 2012, but was quickly resurrected in 2015 with an all-new generation. For 2019, it gets some updates.

The Canyon is one of several key players in the midsize pickup market, along with the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, new Ford Ranger, and mechanically-identical Chevrolet Colorado. Despite stiff competition, the Canyon definitely has a strong presence, with a Son-of-Sierra exterior styling and masculine, squared-off shapes to make up the interior. As before, it’s offered in extended cab and crew cab models. For 2019, GMC has added several new exterior colors that are worth checking out: Dark Sky Metallic, Smokey Quartz Metallic, Blue Emerald Metallic, and Sedona Metallic.

GMC offers the Canyon in several different trims: SL, Canyon, SLE, All Terrain, SLT and Denali. Most trims differ only by content, but the off-road-inspired All Terrain trim gets goodies like a better suspension, an automatic rear-locking differential, a transfer case skid plate, and rugged exterior design elements. Meanwhile, the luxurious Denali gets a unique 3D grille, chrome appointments, and special badging. Standard features on the SL include integrated rear bumper steps, a 4-way power driver’s seat, durable cloth seating, keyless entry, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Items like leather, remote start, navigation, and a better 8-inch infotainment system are available on higher grades.

The brand has redone both the 7-inch and 8-inch infotainment systems for the 2019 Canyon. The new units include enhanced voice recognition, an app marketplace, always-on 4G LTE connectivity, and a slicker interface. There are also new wireless charging and heated steering wheel features.

The base engine for the Canyon is a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that’s capable of 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque paired to a standard 6-speed manual transmission or optional 6-speed automatic transmission. For more speed and power, there’s a 3.6-liter V6 on offer with 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque plus an 8-speed automatic. The workhorse of the lineup though, is the 2.8-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine and 6-speed automatic combo. Despite a low horsepower figure of 186, torque stands at 369 lb-ft. All three engines are available in both two- (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD), and 2WD diesel-equipped models can reach 30 miles per gallon highway. Maximum towing ratings stand at 7,700 lbs for the Canyon.

There isn’t a whole lot of safety technology on the Canyon, but it does get six airbags, a reversing camera, and electronic stability control with rollover mitigation. For towing, every model gets standard trailer sway control. Forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning are available on higher trims, while rear parking sensors are a new option for 2019.

The GMC Canyon is a midsize truck committed to offering plenty of utility, with a livable and modern interior. It’s certainly worth a look for any buyer in this market.