2025 GMC Canyon: 6 reasons to love it, 3 reasons to think twice
The 2025 GMC Canyon is not only one of the most capable off-road pickup trucks in its class; it's one of the most powerful as well. Unfortunately, to get that top trim off-road performance, you'll have to shell out a ton of bread. Fortunately, even the base models are mighty capable.
Other than a cosmetic blackout package called the "Nightfall Edition," the only exterior updates this year are a few new colors, namely Glacier Metallic, Desert Sun, and Rapids Metallic. The "ProGrade Trailering System" and the "Safety Plus Package" are also now standard on all Canyons.
Considering how new this generation is, we weren't expecting that many changes, so this was a pleasant surprise for folks who want the base model Elevation trim. That being said, what are some of the Canyon's best selling points, and what are some reasons that might lead you to shop elsewhere?This exterior design, which was introduced as the 2023 model, is bold and unique. Yes, the Chevrolet Colorado is its brother, but the Canyon has a unique nose, tail, and accessories. Even the base Elevation trim sits high and has a wide stance.
Despite its midsize status, the Canyon looks big and has a presence in the real world. I would go so far as to say that when it's loaded up with AEV accessories, it's one macho-looking hombre. Still, even the bare-bones WT trim is handsome and distinctive.
Even though General Motors ditched the excellent I4 turbodiesel when this new model came out, they replaced it with one of the most powerful gasoline engines in its class. Every trim of the 2025 GMC Canyon uses the same turbocharged 2.7-liter engine that makes 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. While the horsepower is far less than the Ford Ranger Raptor's 405 hp, it makes just as much torque.
Thus, it's not as fast as the Ranger Raptor, but it's still quick. The Canyon's 0 to 60 mph times have been reported to be well under 7 seconds. It's also more efficient, with EPA ratings of 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, compared to the Ranger Raptor's 16 mpg city and 18 mpg highway ratings.The Canyon comes with an 11.3" diagonal touch-screen, an 11" diagonal color Driver Information Center, and an optional 6.3" diagonal multi-color head-up display in higher trims.
Many standard features are available on the lower models, while others, like heated & ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel, are optional on all but the Denali.I'm impressed with the nice details in the base model Elevation, such as the subtle and tasteful use of faux metal trim, excellent screen placement, and attractive interior design.
If you choose the next-level AT4, you will be upgraded to contrasting-color trim pieces with matching synthetic leather and cloth seating. The Denali adds leather throughout the cabin, real-looking wooden inserts, and lots of extra tech. Lastly, the AT4X uses lots of white and red leather with optional AEV badges, should you opt for that package.
When properly equipped, the GMC Canyon can tow a maximum of 7,700 lbs. That's best in class, and I can attest it's a great little truck to tow with. Its maximum payload of 1,720 lbs is second in its class, but it still rivals many full-size pickup trucks in the market.
Keep in mind that those numbers drop when you go up to higher trims with additional hardware. The weight and drag coming from things like larger tires, beefier off-road suspension, and armor reduce hauling capability,As great a work truck as it is, the GMC Canyon doubles as a terrific daily driver. Its overall size isn't much smaller than that of a full-size pickup truck, but it's easier to maneuver, park, and store. Its excellent power also makes passing, overtaking, and off-the-line speed a relative breeze.
Even the base model 4WD Canyon comes with the tried and true Eaton G80 automatic locking rear differential. It spools up and locks at low rpm, and it works automatically. A driver-selectable full-locking rear differential is available, and you can even add both front and rear lockers with the AT4X package.
The Canyon has 9.6 inches of ground clearance right out of the box, which can be upgraded to 12.2 inches if you opt for the AT4X. That trim also includes the Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) Multi-Matic shocks, which use proven racing technology to self-adjust for any terrain.At the top of the off-road tree sits the Canyon AT4X AEV Edition. In addition to knobby Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT LT315/70R17 mud-terrain tires, the AT4X AEV Package delivers serious underside protection, advanced suspension, rugged tires, locking differentials, increased ride height, and impressive power.
Some wish GMC would give the public more layout choices than the single cab configuration and five-foot bed.
The space inside the cab is also a bit tight in the back seat. Unexpectedly, the two odd ducks among the midsize pickup truck gang, the Jeep Gladiator and the Honda Ridgeline, have the most useable and comfortable backseat space.
The bottom line is that you can get a comparable Chevrolet for thousands less. A Chevrolet Colorado WT 4WD with no packages will run up to $8,000 less than a GMC Canyon Elevation. Even if you opt for the beefier engine on the Chevrolet, the savings remain in the thousands.
Yes, the interior design is not quite as fancy as GMC's setup, and there are fewer goodies available overall, but that's not a dealbreaker for some. I would compare and contrast the GMC with the Chevrolet if you're concerned about price.
Speaking of price.Buckle up, buttercup, because these prices are going to create turbulence. The base model Elevation starts at $39,995, and it's a whopping $3,300 to get the 4WD option. The AT4 is $47,295 with standard 4WD, while the Denali is even pricier at $53,595, albeit also with standard 4WD.
In terms of packages, the AT4X is priced at $6,980, while the Nightfall Edition comes in at $4,595. Both options are worth considering if you're looking to enhance the functionality or add a touch of pizzazz to your Canyon. The good news is that the AT4X AEV Edition package was at least discounted from $10,000 to $8,000.
All in all, a fully loaded 2025 GMC AT4X AEV Edition will run you around $68,000. Add a few options, and you will be well into the $70,000 zone. Yikes.
Just so we're clear: a 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor, one of the best vehicles in this class, starts at about $56,000 and peaks at under $60,000.
As I've said about the Ford Ranger Raptor, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, and similar trucks, resisting the allure of the top-tier models can still land you an outstanding pickup truck.
If you do opt to pay to play, then you will get one of the most capable off-road vehicles sold in the United States right out of the box, a theory that also applies to the 2025 GMC Canyon.
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