Jeep Gladiator vs GMC Canyon

Taller and wider than most midsize pickup trucks like the Ford Ranger or Toyota Tacoma, the GMC Canyon is designed to go farther and work harder than the rest of its class. GMC redesigned the Canyon for 2023, and a new AEV package arrives for the 2024 model year. With this off-road-specific kit, the rugged Canyon AT4X grows yet another inch taller and adds 35-inch tires, steel skid plates, and a full-size spare tire.

Verdict: You don’t need to test drive an AT4X AEV trim to walk away impressed with the 2024 Canyon. Although pricey, this truck delivers a more impressive array of standard equipment than any other vehicle in its class, and its high-output turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides more than enough firepower for towing, hauling, and off-road driving.

While this midsize truck can tow up to 7,700 pounds and haul up to 1,725 pounds of payload, those figures apply only to the base Sport trim. The more you spend, the less capable the Gladiator is. The 2025 Gladiator loses its manual transmission, gains a few special-edition models, and adds Fathom Blue, ’41, Joose, and Mojito paint colors. The Sport trim now has standard power windows and door locks as well.

Verdict: Unique among pickup trucks, the Jeep Gladiator is an appealing alternative to the status quo. That’s especially true if you value open-air driving or you plan to tackle untrodden territory. But for serious towing and hauling tasks, there are better choices than the Gladiator.