The compact and midsize truck market is more exciting than ever, with the 2023 Toyota Tacoma remaining incredible popular with shoppers and the newly redesigned 2023 GMC Canyon vying for attention. These trucks have distinct personalities and features that cater to different types of drivers. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2023 GMC Canyon: Pickup Trucks Compared
Look and Feel
When it comes to aesthetics, both the 2023 Toyota Tacoma and the 2023 GMC Canyon bring their unique flair. CarGurus experts rate the Tacoma at 9 out of 10 and the Canyon at 8 out of 10.
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma maintains its assertive stance, standing out as a midsize truck that combines ruggedness with style. It's offered in an impressive array of 34 configurations, including two cab styles, two bed lengths, and trim levels like SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, Trail Special Edition, and more. New this year, the SR5 SX package adds black overfenders and bold blacked-out trim, while the Chrome Package opts for chrome accents for a flashier look. The top-tier TRD Pro trim delivers genuine off-road prowess with features like underbody skid pads, a TRD-tuned suspension, and unique styling elements.
The 2023 GMC Canyon, on the other hand, takes a bold approach to design. Its aggressive front fascia, muscular body lines, and broad grille give it a distinctly tough appearance. The Canyon shares most dimensions with the Chevy Colorado and comes in various trim levels, including Elevation, Denali, AT4, and the off-road-oriented AT4X. The Canyon AT4X, in particular, stands out with its enhanced off-road capabilities and rugged features.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Toyota Tacoma at 8 out of 10 and the 2023 GMC Canyon at 9 out of 10 in terms of performance.
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offers multiple powertrain options. The standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, which may not impress those seeking robust performance. However, the 3.5-liter V6 engine, with 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, is the go-to choice for most buyers. It provides more satisfying acceleration and towing capacity, available with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.
The Tacoma handles well in the city, offering decent acceleration, but it can feel a bit sluggish on the highway. Fuel economy, while not class-leading, is on par with its rivals, ranging up to 24 mpg depending on configurations.
The 2023 GMC Canyon takes a different approach, offering a single powertrain: a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It's tuned to deliver an impressive 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful engine in its class. This engine comes mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Canyon's performance on and off-road is commendable, striking a balance between livability and capability. It offers a quiet cabin, solid handling, and ample acceleration, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions. The Canyon also matches its rivals with a competitive towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.
Form and Function
In terms of form and function, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma and 2023 GMC Canyon cater to different needs. CarGurus experts gave the Tacoma a 7 out of 10 for form and function, while the Canyon earned a rating of 8 out of 10.
The Toyota Tacoma offers various configuration choices, including access-cab and double-cab body styles, with multiple bed lengths. The double cab, with its four doors, provides easier access to the rear seats, although legroom remains tight. The front seats offer ample space and cubby storage but may not be the most comfortable for taller drivers. The Tacoma's bed sizes accommodate a range of cargo needs.
On the other hand, the 2023 GMC Canyon comes exclusively in a crew cab with a 5.2-foot bed. While this configuration limits bed size options, it maximizes interior space, with ample legroom in both rows. The Canyon offers a unique feature in the form of the MultiStow tailgate, which houses a waterproof storage compartment, adding to its utility.
Technology
CarGurus experts have rated the 2023 Toyota Tacoma's technology at 6 out of 10, while the 2023 GMC Canyon shines in the tech department with a CarGurus expert rating of 9 out of 10.
While it may not be the leader in the tech department among pickup trucks, The Toyota Tacoma still offers a user-friendly interface. The Tacoma comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen in base SR trims and an 8-inch touchscreen in higher trims. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio (with a subscription). However, the interface does feel somewhat outdated compared to its competitors. The Tacoma provides essential tech but lacks some of the bells and whistles available in rival trucks.
The Canyon's standard infotainment system boasts an impressive 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Bluetooth streaming audio is also available for certain phones. Moreover, every trim level comes with a digital instrument cluster, with larger screens on premium models, such as the 11-inch display on Denali and AT4X trims. The infotainment system incorporates Google Built-In functionality, offering a seamless experience for Android users. It even includes Google Maps as the default navigation system. The graphics are sharp, and menus feature a more visually appealing dark background. Additionally, the Canyon offers an Off-Road Performance Display for tracking various off-road metrics, making it a tech-savvy driver's dream. The available surround-view camera system adds another layer of convenience and safety, especially when navigating challenging terrains.
Safety
CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Toyota Tacoma's safety at 7 out of 10, edging out the Canyon, which scored a 6 out of 10.
Toyota has equipped the Tacoma with its Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite of driver assistance tech, which includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. Some trims, like the TRD Pro, also include additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and surround-view cameras. However, the Tacoma lags behind some competitors in terms of advanced driver-assist features, and it lacks lane-keeping assist and rear automatic emergency braking. It did not receive a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and received four stars in NHTSA crash tests.
The 2023 GMC Canyon's safety features have not yet been evaluated by IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. However, it offers a robust set of driver-assist features. The standard Canyon Pro Safety Package includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, and more. An optional Safety Plus Package adds even more safety features, including rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking and blind-zone steering assist. The Technology Package, available on select trims, brings adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system, enhancing safety further. GMC's approach to safety is comprehensive, catering to various driver needs.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus experts have given the 2023 Toyota Tacoma a cost-effectiveness rating of 7 out of 10. The 2023 GMC Canyon's cost-effectiveness rating is lower, at 4 out of 10.
The Tacoma starts at $27,750, aligning with competitors like the Ford Ranger. However, the top-level TRD Pro trim is priced significantly higher than its counterparts, exceeding the MSRPs of the top trims for trucks like the Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, and Honda Ridgeline. While the Tacoma offers a reputation for reliability and a diverse trim lineup, the Nissan Frontier and the Chevy Colorado ZR2 offer attractive alternatives in terms of value.
2023 GMC Canyon pricing starts at $39,890 for the base Elevation trim level, which is notably higher than the previous year. The Canyon Denali and AT4X models are even pricier. GMC's strategy seems to cater to the premium market segment, focusing on high-end trucks with all the bells and whistles. While it may not be a budget-friendly option, it aims to provide a premium experience for those willing to invest in their pickup.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma and the 2023 GMC Canyon both stands at 7.3 out of 10. While both trucks have their merits, your choice should ultimately depend on your priorities.
Choose the 2023 Toyota Tacoma if:
- You prioritize a more tried and true option with a reputation for reliability.
- You don't require the latest tech features and are content with essential connectivity.
- You prefer a wide range of trim options catering to various needs.
Search for a 2023 Toyota Tacoma on CarGurus
Choose the 2023 GMC Canyon if:
- You are a tech-savvy buyer who values a top-notch infotainment system.
- Safety features are a top priority, and you appreciate a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies.
- You are willing to invest in a premium pickup truck with a focus on luxury and advanced features.
Search for a 2023 GMC Canyon on CarGurus
In summary, both the 2023 Toyota Tacoma and the 2023 GMC Canyon have their unique strengths, so consider your specific needs and preferences when making your final decision.
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