2023 RAM 2500 vs 2024 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 came with a unique grille, a crew-cab configuration, and a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. It offered a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine and an optional 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, which was unavailable in the Power Wagon due to cooling requirements. The base price was set at $67,045, with additional features pushing the MSRP to $91,630.

The 2024 GMC Canyon stood out as a sizable midsize truck, measuring 213.2 inches in length and 79.8 inches in height, making it taller than its competitors. It shared components with the Chevrolet Colorado but offered greater ground clearance. Available in four trims, the Canyon catered to various preferences, from work-focused to luxury and off-road capabilities. The AT4X trim, tested with the AEV package, included off-road enhancements like 35-inch tires and skid plates. Despite its size, the Canyon's interior felt cramped, especially in the rear seats, and its 5.2-foot bed offered limited cargo space.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel was equipped with a 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. It featured a part-time transfer case and a front-axle disconnect system. The optional Cummins 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine delivered 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The V8 offered a maximum towing capacity of 16,870 pounds and a payload capacity of 3,140 pounds. The Cummins engine provided better fuel efficiency, with observed figures ranging from 14.7 to 19.1 mpg. The Rebel's robust frame, off-road capabilities, and smooth ride made it versatile for various terrains.

The 2024 GMC Canyon featured a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, standard across all trims. It offered a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,670 pounds. The Canyon's eight-speed automatic transmission complemented its engine, providing a smooth driving experience. Despite its size, the Canyon handled well, with minimal road noise and effective brakes. The AT4X trim included advanced off-road features like a two-speed transfer case and front and rear lockers. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 16 mpg for the AT4X AEV model.

Entering the 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel required some effort due to its height. The interior offered options for cloth or leather upholstery, with comfortable heated and ventilated seats. The back seat was spacious, with additional storage options throughout the cabin. The cargo box included features like a spray-in bedliner and Ram Box storage bins, enhancing utility.

The 2024 GMC Canyon, while offering best-in-class towing, had a cramped interior, especially in the rear seats. Its 5.2-foot bed was smaller than some competitors, and the spare tire in the AEV package reduced usable space. The Canyon's size posed challenges in urban environments, and it lacked a digital rearview mirror, which could have aided visibility.

The 2023 RAM 2500 featured a new 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an advanced Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. The truck offered enhanced camera systems and trailering technologies, such as blind-spot cameras and Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The 2024 GMC Canyon came with an 11.3-inch touchscreen and Google Built-in, providing access to Google Maps and Assistant without a phone. It supported wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The infotainment system had some quirks, like embedded headlight controls, but offered a head-up display on higher trims and off-road performance pages.

The 2023 RAM 2500 offered a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, its size and weight provided a sense of security.

The 2024 GMC Canyon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side-impact tests. It included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Additional features were available through options packages, and the AT4X trim offered a surround-view camera and trailer-compatible blind-spot system.