GMC has offered large, full-size trucks for years. However, it wasn’t until 2004 that the brand decided to add a small truck to the lineup. That truck was the GMC Canyon, a small yet peppy model that gives you the truck feel without the unnecessary additional power. After several years of success, GMC retired the model in 2012 but quickly brought it back by popular demand in 2015. Since then, the model line has been going strong, which is why we’re excited to tell you about the new 2022 GMC Canyon model.
This new model comes with three different engine options, allowing you to focus on either fuel efficiency or tow capacity, depending on your needs. It’s also designed with aesthetics in mind, both in its package options and in its standard design. To top it all off, if you like to head out on the trails, this lightweight truck even includes an off-road-specific trim option as well. When you like the truck-style without the overwhelming price tag and size, this model is a top pick.
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Performance still matters, even when you’re purchasing a small-sized truck. While the 2022 GMC Canyon isn’t as powerful as its Sierra cousin, it’ll still get you where you need to be. It’s also still tow and haul capable.
First, let’s start by looking at the three different engines and their differences. The first engine option is the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine gets you slightly better fuel economy than the V6 option, landing at 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The 3.6-liter V6 performs almost as well, with 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. Finally, the most fuel efficient of all is the turbo diesel option, which reaches as much as 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway.
While you may assume that the 4-cylinder option is most fuel-efficient, it isn’t. In addition to its lower fuel efficiency, its max tow capacity is 3,500 pounds, whereas the diesel engine can tackle 7,700 pounds. The V6 option falls right behind the diesel with a max 7,000-pound tow capacity.
So, what’s the point in getting the 4-cylinder engine? It’s still a great option if you want to save money upfront. It comes standard on the two lowest trims. This is ideal for drivers who don’t need to tow much more than an ATV trailer or small boat, or don't have the cash for one of the more expensive trims. Keep in mind that you can still pair the 4-cylinder engine with four-wheel drive, so tackling backroads and adverse weather is still possible with these standard base models.
However, if you’ve got bigger loads to pull, you’ll want to stick with the V6 and turbo diesel options. We especially recommend the turbo diesel engine because it offers a nice mix of fuel efficiency and tow capacity. But if you’re the hot rodding type, you’ll get the most acceleration out of the V6 model. In fact, the V6 Canyon is one of the fastest pickup trucks in its class. There are pros and cons to each engine option, so none of these are necessarily better than the other. It just depends on your individual needs.
While we’re on the subject of performance, it’s important to note that the AT4 trim is available for those hardcore off-roaders. While all 2022 GMC Canyon trims can tackle the gravel and mud, this model takes it a step further. It’s only available in the V6 and turbo diesel engines, leaving the 4-cyl behind.
Although it removes the lower engine option, the AT4 trim adds so much more, including red recovery hooks, an off-road suspension package, and 31-inch Wrangler tires. It also comes with its own custom “AT4” grille, an automatic locking rear differential, and a 2-speed AutoTrac transfer case.
What does all this mean? The locking rear differential makes sure that your tires are rotating the same at ALL times, no matter what. Since torque is evenly distributed to each wheel, even on uneven terrain, your chances of traction loss are greatly reduced. Furthermore, the AutoTrac transfer case offers a LO speed, which is ideal for off-road climbing. It’ll keep your truck slow yet steadier and more capable when it comes to steep inclines and rocky areas. Overall, whether you’re a casual driver or you like to take things off-road, there’s a new GMC Canyon option for you.
Part of what makes GMC stand out from Chevy and its competitors is its aesthetic appeal. A truck that’s not only capable but is also stylish is ideal, and that’s what GMC aims to achieve with every model. The 2022 GMC Canyon is no exception to this rule.
Let’s start by looking at some exterior package options you can get on this model. First, we’ve got the Denali Black Edition package, which of course, is a Denali trim exclusive. It comes with 20-inch Gloss Black wheels and Gloss Black Exhaust and side steps.
Next up is the AT4 Off-Road Performance Package, which includes the most exterior upgrades. This package includes the following exterior upgrades:
It’s safe to say that the off-road model comes with the most exterior customization features. However, these trims are appealing on their own, even without package add-ons. For example, the standard Denali trim comes with chrome side steps, a standard spray-on bedliner, exclusive diamond-cut wheels, and a chromed-out grille.
But looks aren’t the only perk when it comes to the Canyon's exterior. You’ll also get convenience features, specifically the EZ Lift and Lower Tailgate. Thanks to the internal torsion bar, this tailgate isn’t heavy and is easy to lift and lower. Plus, just like a soft-closing drawer, the tailgate lowers slowly on its own without slamming or making you hold its weight. There’s no doubt about it; thanks to these perks, the 2022 GMC Canyon is both aesthetically appealing and user-friendly.
While truck drivers are often more concerned with performance and visual appeal, safety is also a top factor on the shopper’s list. This is especially true for family drivers. The good news is that the 2022 GMC Canyon excels in the safety department.
First off, this model includes standard Teen Driver Mode. This is something that is designed for new, young drivers, as it monitors their performance and allows guardians to set certain limits. For example, you can set a limit on your teen’s speed, volume, and curfew hour. In addition to these features, Teen Driver Mode enforces GMC’s “Buckle to Drive” feature, which doesn’t allow the vehicle to move for 20 seconds if it detects that seat belts aren’t buckled. Whether you’re an anxious parent or a cautious older sibling, this mode is essential for both teaching and monitoring teen drivers.
While GM’s unique Teen Driver Mode is helpful, the new Canyon includes several more driver assist features. These include Forward Collision Alert, Rear Park Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring, and Lane Departure Warning. The Forward Collision Alert lets you know when you are getting too close to the vehicle ahead, and it will also send out a warning when that vehicle comes to an abrupt stop.
Furthermore, Rear Park Assist lets you know when you’re getting too close to an object while in reverse. Lane Departure Warning is there to wake you up and keep you alert on long drives, as it monitors road lines and sends a warning when you begin to drift. But don’t worry, as long as you’re using your turn signal, the Lane Departure Warning stays quiet. The 2022 GMC Canyon is not only capable and aesthetically appealing, it's safe and tech-savvy as well.