2020 GMC Canyon review

What We Like

Driving dynamics: Choose a Canyon equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, and the truck hustles up to speed with ease. GMC tunes this pickup to provide a good ride and commendable handling for the segment, and the All Terrain model increases off-roading capability. For maximum EPA-estimated fuel economy, get the optional turbodiesel engine, which returns up to 30 mpg on the highway.

Max towing capacity: When you get the 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, a properly equipped Canyon can tow up to 7,700 pounds.

That’s more than anything else in the midsize pickup segment, though a Ford Ranger’s standard turbocharged gas four-cylinder comes close at 7,500 pounds. A Canyon with the V6 can handle up to 7,000 pounds, which is still more than most midsize trucks. Just not more than the Ford.

Excellent infotainment system: GMC equips the Canyon with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It is a thoroughly modern piece of technology, offering quick response to input, a simple user interface, and accurate voice recognition. Plus, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ are standard. Upgrades include subscription-based connected services with access to a Wi-Fi hotspot, a navigation system, and a Bose premium audio system.

What Needs Improvement

Few driver-assist systems: When you buy a GMC Canyon, it won’t have many driver-assist features. An available high-resolution reversing camera and rear parking sensors can help with visibility, while the optional forward collision warning and lane departure warning systems can help to prevent an accident. However, this menu of safety systems is not the most competitive among modern pickup trucks.