The midsized truck called Canyon is one of the staple vehicles from GMC and since last year's model it has not undergone much change. However, if it isn't broke, don't fix it, right. One notable change is the additional horsepower that the 5.3 liter V-8 delivers. This was a much needed addition, the 2010 model could have used some extra power and now that GMC has upgraded the motor in the Canyon, this is one of the most powerful midsized trucks in its class.
The Canyon offers a few varieties of motors, from the standard I-5 engine all the way up to the powerful V-8. The Canyon can use a 4 speed automatic transmission or a 5 speed manual for those who like complete control over the vehicles shift points. The V-8 is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds which is a pretty healthy payload by any standards. For those road warriors there are both ZQ8 and Z71 suspension packages to offer a more refined ride.
The new headrests, chrome package and connectivity packages are among many of the new features available on the new Canyon in 2011.
The Range
Bodystyles: Truck
Engines: 2.9L I-4; 3.7L I-5; 5.3L V-8
Transmissions: 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual
Models: Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab
What's New
For 2011 the GMC Canyon is now available with OnStar Gen 9.0, which features a six-month subscription to the service's Directions and Connections plan. A revised front headrest design has been developed for the Canyon's seats, there's a new color choice called Aqua Blue Metallic, and a new chrome package is also available featuring a chrome fuel door and exhaust tip.
Exterior
The 2011 GMC Canyon's face features a bold, slatted grille with the GMC badge proudly displayed, flanked by a unique, two-tiered headlamp setup. The Canyon's look is also highlighted by exaggerated fender flares designed to lend it a masculine look.
Interior
The Canyon's interior could use an update and offers little in the way of standard features, but the truck does have several available options including power leather bucket seats on SLT and SLE trims, a power convenience package, sunroof, and a stereo with CD/MP3 player, and the revised headrests.
Performance & Handling
The 2011 Canyon offers three Vortec engines. The base 2.9-liter I-4 with 185 horsepower musters 20 mpg combined. The 3.7-liter I-5 is rated at 242 horsepower, and the big (and thirsty) V-8 outputs 300 horsepower. All engines are mated to either aging four speed auto or five-speed manual transmissions. The Canyon's heavy duty, sport and off-road suspensions offer prospective buyers flexibility depending on need.
Safety
The Canyon recently got safer thanks to the addition of standard head curtain side air bags across the range, augmenting the frontal air bags with sensing system. The Canyon also comes standard with StabilTrak stability control and OnStar.
EPA Fuel Economy
Canyon 2WD (2.9L): 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway
Canyon 2WD (3.7L): 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway
Canyon 2WD (5.3L): 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway
Canyon 4WD (2.9L): 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway
Canyon 4WD (3.7L): 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway
Canyon 4WD (5.3L): 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Multiple engine options
- Configurable
- OnStar 9.0
- Solid warranty
You Won't Like
- Sub-par interior
- Average MPG
- Lacks top-tier technology
- Aging transmissions
Sum Up
In need of a substantial update
If You Like This Vehicle
- Toyota Tacoma
- Nissan Frontier
- Dodge Dakota
- Ford Ranger
- Suzuki Equator