2023 RAM 2500 vs 2023 GMC Canyon

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel presented a familiar yet distinct appearance, closely resembling the Power Wagon but with notable differences. It featured an aluminum sport hood, 20-inch wheels, and a sleek, blacked-out look, omitting the Power Wagon's graphics, 17-inch wheels, and integrated winch. The Rebel's aggressive stance was complemented by a Rebel-specific grille and a crew-cab configuration with a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. The standard 6.4-liter V8 engine was shared with the Power Wagon, but the Rebel offered an exclusive 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six, unavailable in the Power Wagon due to cooling requirements. The base price was set at $67,045, with additional options pushing the MSRP to $91,630. The 2023 model year brought enhancements like a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel, side-view cameras, and towing technologies, making the Rebel a well-rounded choice for those seeking both style and functionality.

The 2023 GMC Canyon, redesigned for a more aggressive look, featured a broad grille flanked by scrunched headlights and daytime running lights, giving it a fierce demeanor. The body sides were sculpted with bulges and creases, reminiscent of tensed muscles. Sharing dimensions with the Chevy Colorado, the Canyon boasted a longer wheelbase and an "Ultra Wide Track" stance, with a standard factory lift kit. The Canyon offered various trims, including the Elevation, AT4, and Denali, each with unique features like a two-inch lift for increased ground clearance. The Denali trim stood out with its luxurious interior, featuring laser-etched wood trim and leather upholstery. The Canyon's interior space was competitive, with ample first-row legroom and a MultiStow tailgate for additional storage. Despite lacking some features like a telescoping steering wheel, the Canyon's towing capacity and off-road capabilities made it a strong contender in the midsize truck segment.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel was equipped with a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. It featured a part-time transfer case with 4-Hi and 4-Lo settings and a front-axle disconnect system for improved fuel efficiency. The Rebel also offered a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six, producing 370 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the diesel option was more efficient, achieving up to 19.1 mpg on highways, it came at a higher cost and didn't match the V8's towing capacity of 16,870 pounds. The Rebel's robust frame, off-road tires, and advanced suspension system made it capable on rough terrains, while its smooth ride and refined handling impressed on highways.

The 2023 GMC Canyon featured a single powertrain option: a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard on the base Elevation trim, with four-wheel drive available on higher trims. The Canyon AT4X, designed for off-roading, included features like electronic lockers, skid plates, and 33-inch mud terrain tires. The Canyon's performance balanced on-road comfort with off-road prowess, offering quiet cabins and solid handling. While acceleration was adequate, the Canyon's towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and payload capacity of 1,640 pounds were competitive, though slightly lower than some rivals. The AT4X trim excelled in off-road conditions, showcasing its capability across various terrains.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel required some physical effort to enter, with large handles aiding access to the cab. The interior featured either cloth or leather upholstery, with options for bench or bucket seats. The test vehicle had premium leather and bucket seats, providing comfort over long drives. The back seat offered ample space, with air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and charging ports. Storage was plentiful, with hidden compartments and a versatile cargo box. The available Ram Box storage bins added utility, though competitors offered features enhancing bed access.

The 2023 GMC Canyon was available only as a crew cab with a 5.2-foot bed, offering competitive interior space for a midsize truck. It provided more first-row legroom than most rivals, with second-row legroom surpassed only by a few models. The MultiStow tailgate added a waterproof storage compartment, though its utility was limited. The Canyon lacked a telescoping steering wheel and power-adjustable seats, which was unexpected for a premium brand. The truck's towing capacity matched its predecessor, while the payload capacity was slightly lower than some competitors. Despite these limitations, the Canyon's interior space and storage solutions were well-suited for its class.

The 2023 RAM 2500 featured a new 12-inch digital instrumentation panel, offering customizable displays controlled via steering wheel buttons. The truck's camera systems and trailering technologies were enhanced, with blind-spot cameras and a digital rearview mirror providing improved visibility. The Trailer Reverse Steering Control added convenience for trailer maneuvering. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with a 12-inch touchscreen, included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. While glare affected some displays, the infotainment screen remained clear, and the voice-recognition system performed well for common tasks.

The 2023 GMC Canyon's infotainment system included an 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital instrument cluster varied by trim, with higher trims featuring an 11-inch display and a head-up display. The system integrated Google Built-In functionality, offering a seamless experience for Android users. The Off-Road Performance Display provided real-time data for off-road adventures. The surround-view camera system, with an underbody camera, enhanced off-road visibility. The Canyon's tech features catered to modern buyers, offering advanced functionality and user-friendly interfaces.

The 2023 RAM 2500 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features proved effective on open highways, though their performance in dense traffic was untested. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the truck's size and weight suggested robust protection in single-vehicle incidents.

The 2023 GMC Canyon's safety features included the standard Canyon Pro Safety Package, with automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Optional packages added features like rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control, standard on higher trims. Crash-test ratings were not available, but the Canyon's safety equipment aligned with modern standards, offering comprehensive protection for drivers.