2024 GMC Canyon vs 2023 GMC Canyon

The 2023 GMC Canyon presented a bold and aggressive design, characterized by its scrunched-up headlights and a broad grille that gave it an intimidating presence. The body featured bulges and creases reminiscent of tensed muscles, enhancing its tough appearance. Sharing dimensions with the Chevy Colorado, the 2023 model boasted a longer wheelbase and an "Ultra Wide Track" stance, with a standard factory lift kit providing significant ground clearance. The Denali trim offered luxurious touches like laser-etched wood trim and leather upholstery, while the AT4X model stood out with its dramatic red-and-white interior.

In contrast, the 2024 GMC Canyon was noted for its impressive size, standing taller than its competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. Its height was comparable to that of LeBron James, thanks to a wider track and substantial ground clearance. The Canyon was available in four trims, each catering to different needs, from the work-focused Elevation to the luxury-oriented Denali. The AT4X trim, especially with the AEV package, emphasized off-road capabilities with features like 35-inch tires and steel skid plates. Despite its size, the Canyon's interior felt cramped, particularly in the rear seats, and its bed offered less cargo capacity compared to some rivals.

The 2023 GMC Canyon featured a single powertrain option: a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a balance of on-road comfort and off-road prowess. The Canyon offered rear-wheel drive on the base Elevation trim, with four-wheel drive available on higher trims. The AT4X model excelled in off-road conditions, equipped with features like electronic lockers and Multimatic spool-valve dampers.

For 2024, the Canyon retained the same powerful engine, ensuring robust performance with a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a payload of 1,670 pounds. The eight-speed automatic transmission complemented the engine well, and the truck handled uneven terrain with ease, thanks to its advanced suspension system. However, fuel economy was a downside, with the AT4X AEV model achieving only 16 mpg. The Canyon's driving experience was enhanced by features like a Baja drive mode and launch control, although these were best suited for off-road adventures.

The 2023 GMC Canyon was available only as a crew cab with a 5.2-foot bed, offering ample first-row legroom but limited rear-seat space. The MultiStow tailgate provided additional storage, though its utility was limited. The Canyon's towing capacity was impressive, matching that of the Chevy Colorado and surpassing rivals like the Ford Ranger. However, its payload capacity was lower than some competitors.

In 2024, the Canyon continued to excel in towing capacity but struggled with interior space. The rear seats were cramped, and the bed was smaller than those of some rivals. The AEV package further reduced usable space with a bed-mounted spare tire. The Canyon's size posed challenges in urban environments, and the lack of a digital rearview mirror was a notable omission.

The 2023 GMC Canyon featured an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, offering seamless integration with Google apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the system's graphics were impressive. The Denali and AT4X trims included a head-up display and an Off-Road Performance Display, enhancing the driving experience. A surround-view camera system with an underbody camera was available, aiding in off-road navigation.

In 2024, the Canyon maintained its technological edge with the same 11.3-inch touchscreen and Google Built-In. The infotainment system included wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the integration of headlight controls into the infotainment system was a drawback. The Denali and AT4X trims benefited from a head-up display and off-road performance pages, adding to their appeal.

The 2023 GMC Canyon's safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. Optional packages added features like rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims came with additional safety features as standard.

The 2024 Canyon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side-impact tests. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. However, advanced features were available only through optional packages on lower trims. The AT4X trim included a surround-view camera and trailer-compatible blind-spot avoidance.