2021 GMC Canyon Review: AT4, Denali, Diesel

The 2021 GMC Canyon is going to be unchanged. The truck is heading into a new generation which will appear hopefully in 2022. Until this happens, we will stick to the existing version, which is pretty versatile.

The Canyon is a mechanical twin to the Chevy Colorado and both models are offering similar options. Still, Chevrolet’s truck sales better. A lot better. It could make designers work on the new design for the next-gen pickup.

2021 GMC CAnyon redesign

Specs

Under the bonnet of the 2021 GMC Canyon will be the 3.6-lite V6 engine capable of producing 308 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. The towing capacity of this unit is 7,000 pounds. The drivetrains send power to rear wheels by default. Another option for an eight-speed auto gearbox is to distribute energy to all four corners of the vehicle. This is the least efficient combination with the gas mileage of just 20 mpg.

The base version is going to use a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated powerplant. This is the least popular unit since it comes with only 200 hp and 191 lb-ft of torque. Of course, the towing capacity drops, which is another reason why truckers are opting for the larger unit. Why buy Canyon with the four-cylinder engine? Because it returns the better gas mileage and the price is lower.

Diesel Unit

The 2021 GMC Canyon will still use a turbodiesel four-cylinder engine to deliver a class-leading towing capacity of 7,600 pounds. A 2.8-liter unit lays under the bonnet and also offers the best fuel economy numbers in the class, reaching 30 mpg on the open road.

2021 GMC CAnyon diesel

2021 GMC Canyon AT4

The AT4 all-terrain package is equipped with features that boost off-road performance. Special suspension and hill descent control are the highlights of this model. Buyers will also get unique wheels and the transfer case shield. Body-color bumpers and grille surround with the black center are making this model different from others. Also, there are a lot of other details which will boost the overall impression. The company is offering this package with a cloth or leather upholstery. The difference in cost is $1,500.

2021 GMC Canyon Denali Model

The AT4 is an impressive package, but the most expensive version is the 2021 GMC Canyon Denali. The truck uses an all-wheel drive and upgrades the styling with 20-inch wheels. There are also chrome assist steps and spray-on bedliner. Inside, Denali package is bringing an 8-inch touchscreen display, navigation, heated front seats and steering wheel, ventilation for front buckets. If you pick a V6 engine, you are getting polished exhaust tips.

2021 GMC CAnyon denali interior

Prices

The base configuration for the 2021 Canyon will include a 2WD, extended cab with a long box, and a four-cylinder engine. It will cost buyers around $23,500. The cheapest model with the V6 engine is using the Canyon package and comes with a price tag of $28,500. Top of the class models, AT4 and Denali, are available only with the 4WD, while a diesel engine becomes an option. Crew Cab, Long box, Denali package with a Duramax unit will make the truck go over $50,000. This could be called the only premium model in the entire mid-size pickup segment.

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