2022 GMC Canyon vs 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty was a testament to Ford's commitment to heavy-duty performance, taking the robust design of the F-150 to a more formidable level. Its imposing size and muscular build were not just for aesthetics; they were indicative of the truck's enhanced capabilities over its light-duty counterparts. The Super Duty's long bed lengths and elevated ride height made it ideal for hauling cargo and tackling challenging terrains. Its exterior featured massive grilles, durable bumpers, and resilient bodywork, designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Inside, the cabin varied from basic and functional in the lower trims to luxurious in the higher trims, with options for leather upholstery and upscale finishes that rivaled luxury vehicles.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Canyon offered a more refined and premium appearance, especially in its Denali trim. This version boasted a distinctive chrome grille, 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and a host of luxury features like heated and ventilated leather seats, open-pore Ash wood trim, and a Bose premium audio system. Even the rugged AT4 off-road variant maintained a level of luxury with its premium leather seats and unique styling elements. While the lower trims like the Elevation and Elevation Standard were more utilitarian, the overall material quality of the Canyon was impressive for its class, providing a comfortable and inviting cabin environment.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered three powerful engine options, starting with a 6.2-liter V8 producing 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. A more robust 7.3-liter V8 delivered 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine stood out with 475 hp and a staggering 1,050 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the trucks came standard with rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available. The Super Duty excelled in towing and payload capacities, with some configurations capable of towing over 36,000 pounds and carrying up to 4,060 pounds. The Tremor models added off-road capabilities with lift kits and rugged tires, although fuel economy ratings were not available due to the truck's heavy-duty classification.

The 2022 GMC Canyon, while not matching the Super Duty's heavy-duty specs, offered respectable performance for a midsize truck. It featured three engine choices: a 200-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 308-hp 3.6-liter V6, and a 181-hp 2.8-liter turbodiesel with 369 pound-feet of torque. The latter two engines allowed for a maximum tow rating of 7,700 pounds with the Trailering package. The Canyon's V6 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power and smooth shifting. The AT4 variant, equipped with off-road features like 31-inch Wrangler Duratrac tires and a special suspension, offered solid performance both on and off the road. The Canyon's ride was stable and comfortable, with the AT4's off-road equipment enhancing its capabilities.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty, despite its utilitarian focus, offered a range of comfort features. The standard 40/20/40 folding bench seat provided a comfortable setup for the driver and front passenger, while Crew Cab and Super Cab models offered spacious rear seating. However, the truck's large size made it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and its tall ride height could complicate entry and exit. The Super Duty's clever tailgate design, with optional steps and a handle, facilitated easier access to the bed, although it wasn't as advanced as some competitors' tailgate systems.

The 2022 GMC Canyon provided a more accessible and comfortable experience, especially in its crew cab configuration, which offered ample space for rear-seat passengers. The extended cab model was less spacious, but the rear folding bench seat added versatility for storage. The Canyon's seat height made entry and exit easy, akin to a crossover SUV. The seats were comfortable and supportive, with power adjustments and heating available. The AT4's taller ride height improved visibility, and features like a rearview camera and rear park assist simplified parking. The cargo bed's two-tier loading system and 13 tie-down points enhanced its practicality.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty featured the intuitive Sync 3 infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface and minimal distraction. While the base XL trim had a non-touch display, higher trims offered a larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Additional tech options included a WiFi hotspot, upgraded seats, and adjustable upfitter switches. Diesel models could be equipped with a rapid heating unit for quick cabin warmth.

The 2022 GMC Canyon, though not the most tech-laden, offered essential features like a 7-inch touchscreen on the Elevation Standard trim, with an 8-inch version available on higher trims. The AT4 added wireless smartphone charging, and the Denali included navigation and a high-definition rearview camera. The Canyon's infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Bose audio system provided excellent sound quality. Available tech included Amazon Alexa Built-In and a WiFi hotspot, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered a range of safety features, though many were optional or reserved for higher trims. Available options included a trailer tow package with special camera views and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, as well as blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Super Duty was not crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS due to its classification as a commercial vehicle.

The 2022 GMC Canyon's safety features varied by trim level. The base Elevation Standard lacked advanced driver aids but included tire-fill alert and the Teen Driver system. The Driver Alert package, available on higher trims, added forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and rear parking assistance. However, features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking were notably absent. The Canyon received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and a "Good" rating from the IIHS in most crash tests, though it scored poorly in some areas.