2017 GMC Canyon Review
2017 GMC Canyon Review
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
+48
Used Canyon for sale
Appraise This CarGMC Canyon model years
GMC Canyon types
- Extended Cab
- Crew Cab
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review
byTravis Langness
Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.
Pros
- Gasoline V6 and four-cylinder diesel engines tow more than rivals
- Maneuverable size, along with well-mannered steering and handling
- Comfortable ride over most surfaces
Cons
- Front seats can feel small to larger people
- Rivals offer more in-cab storage with rear seats folded
- Low-hanging front air dam limits off-road potential
What’s new
For 2017, the GMC Canyon receives a revised V6 engine that's paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 is a bit more powerful, though fuel economy ratings do not change significantly. There's also a new range-topping Denali trim level this year.
Vehicle overview
The 2017 GMC Canyon is a strong offering in the midsize truck segment thanks to a smooth ride, strong available engines and many available upscale features. It's not the best choice for heading off-road or for ultimate comfort, but it's easy to drive and has plenty of towing capability.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 GMC Canyon SL 4dr Extended Cab SB (2.5L 4cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$198/mo for Canyon SL
Canyon SL
vs
$240/mo
Avg. Compact Truck
The pickup truck has become a much more user-friendly vehicle over the years. And right at the front of that movement is the 2017 GMC Canyon. A twin to the Chevrolet Colorado, the GMC Canyon is a midsize truck with all the truck capabilities you'll need, but it also comes with top-level features and a comfortable interior.
Depending on configuration, the Canyon can tow up to 7,700 pounds, so it's got the truck part covered. But it's also smooth and silent on the highway, and the interior is solidly built. Like a lot of modern trucks, the Canyon is versatile and a great tool for many different jobs, but it's got the special twist of being a bit more luxurious than the norm. So if you want a truck with lots of likable features to make the daily commute easier, and enough power to haul a big load on the weekend, we definitely recommend checking out the refined 2017 GMC Canyon.
Notably, we picked the 2015 GMC Canyon as one of Edmunds' Best Used Cars.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
The 2017 GMC Canyon is a strong offering in the midsize truck segment thanks to a smooth ride, strong available engines and many available upscale features. It's not the best choice for heading off-road or for ultimate comfort, but it's easy to drive and has plenty of towing capability.
Driving
With appealing powertrains and lots of utility-friendly options, the 2017 GMC Canyon pickup delivers all the capability and strength you'd expect, plus significant refinement and comfort for a pickup. It also offers a surprising number of new features.
Acceleration
Fitted with the available V6 engine, the Canyon has plenty of oomph. The potent yet efficient turbodiesel four-cylinder is a compelling alternative, especially if you plan to do a lot of towing.
Braking
The 2017 Canyon has a firm, responsive brake pedal that inspires confidence in normal use, but we had some pedal fade during performance testing. The last Canyon we tested (with the old V6 engine) came to a stop from 60 mph in 124 feet, an average distance for the segment.
Steering
The steering's power assist has appropriate weighting, helping it track straight as an arrow down the highway. The truck threads its way through switchbacks with precision, but the slow ratio does keep the driver's hands busy at the wheel.
Handling
You're not going to find a regular-issue pickup that feels sporty while driving around turns, but the Canyon actually tackles curves surprisingly well. Body roll is present, but it's never excessive. Confident handling is one of the Canyon's strong suits.
Drivability
Even though the Canyon is significantly smaller than the full-size GMC Sierra, it can still feel large in tight city confines, especially with the crew cab and the long bed. But unless you're trying to squeeze into a tight parking space, it remains manageable.
Off-road
The low-hanging front air dam will limit off-road use, but the All-Terrain package adds all-terrain tires, an off-road-oriented suspension, a rear locking differential and hill descent control.
Comfort
There's no mistaking the GMC Canyon as anything but a pickup from the outside, but in terms of comfort, it delivers the kind of pleasant accommodations that are normally reserved for SUVs. All-day road trips are effortless.
Seat comfort
The front seats are well-padded and supportive. They offer all-day livability, but larger-framed occupants could find them a bit confining. The crew cab's rear seats are well suited to adult passengers and offer adequate support.
Ride comfort
Driving a pickup without any cargo in the bed usually results in a busy ride over rough pavement, and the GMC Canyon is no different. But it never feels out of sorts. And with a few hundred pounds in the bed, it settles down nicely.
Noise & vibration
Wind and road noise is pleasantly silenced at highway speeds. There may be a bit of noise from the optional diesel engine, but the cockpit remains pretty quiet at highway speed. Despite its utilitarian intent, the Canyon is an easy place to spend a day.
Interior
Though there are some plastics that aren't exactly class-leading, the Canyon has a likable and well-organized cabin overall. The optional infotainment system is highly functional, and the Denali's interior features some appealing creature comforts, including ventilated seats.
Ease of use
The IntelliLink infotainment interface has quick responses and big, legible controls, and physical buttons are logically placed and easy to read.
Getting in/getting out
The GMC Canyon sits high enough off the ground that it takes almost as much effort to get in and out as with a full-size truck. The optional assist steps are a useful addition for smaller passengers.
Roominess
The crew-cab Canyon is the preferred choice if you cart around passengers. Space is plentiful up front, even for the tallest of drivers. The rear seats have an abundance of headroom, but taller folks may run out of legroom.
Visibility
The Canyon provides a commanding view of the road ahead. Rear-quarter visibility is OK but not great. The large side mirrors can hide vehicles or pedestrians, but they pay off in good rear visibility, especially when towing a trailer. A rearview camera is standard across the lineup.
Quality
The Canyon is built for tough conditions but doesn't skimp on interior quality. The controls have a solid and satisfying heft, and during our tests, we didn't hear any creaks.
Utility
The Canyon manages a good balance of abundant small item storage and respectable rear-seat cargo space. Buyers looking to maximize hauling capability, though, should go for the long-bed configuration.
Small-item storage
Small item storage in the Canyon is excellent. Cupholders, cubbies and pockets are everywhere. Under the rear seats are large storage areas that can be used to stow tools out of sight. The door pockets and the center console are a bit shallow.
Cargo space
Large bins and cupholders easily hold all your personal items. Rear seats fold for secure cargo hauling, and there's additional space underneath. The standard built-in step bumper and optional EZ-Lift tailgate make access to the bed that much easier.
Child safety seat accommodation
If you need the space for a child seat, you'll want to go with the crew-cab Canyon. Larger child seats will require moving the front seat forward, though, so there may not be room for a front passenger.
Towing
The max tow rating with the diesel is 7,700 pounds, which is at the top of the class. The V6 tops out at 7,000 pounds, and the base four-cylinder tops out at 3,500 pounds. The tow-haul mode is effective in tailoring transmission responses to your towing needs.
Which Canyon does Edmunds recommend?
Other than deciding on which engine and cab configuration to go with, picking a Canyon will depend largely on the number of creature comforts you need. We're fond of the midrange SLE trim level. The SLE comes with a nice collection of features, but it's also available with functional upgrades such as the All-Terrain package that adds an off-road-oriented suspension, a rear locking differential, hill descent control and heated seats. Though the SLT and Denali are appealing, most of their equipment can be had as optional extras on the SLE, so you can really pick and choose which items you need.
2017 GMC Canyon models
The 2017 GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup offered in two- and four-seat extended-cab and five-seat crew-cab body styles. There are two bed lengths and five trim levels to choose from: SL, base Canyon, SLE, SLT and the top-of-the-line Denali. The SL and base Canyon will likely be good choices if you're just looking for a basic truck — no big touchscreens or fancy ventilated seats here. Upgrade to the SLE, SLT or the top-of-the-range Denali and you'll unlock optional extras such as automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging for cellphones.
Although the GMC Canyon is essentially a more upscale version of its Chevy Colorado sibling, there is an entry-level trim called the SL. The SL is offered only with the extended cab and loses the rear seat, and it comes standard with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine (200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque), a six-speed manual transmission, 16-inch wheels, air-conditioning, a four-way power driver seat with manual recline, a tilt-only steering wheel, power windows, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker audio system with a 4.2-inch color display.
The next step up is the base Canyon model, which is available in both extended-cab and crew-cab body styles and adds a six-speed automatic transmission (crew-cab models) and fold-up rear jump seats (extended-cab models only). Also, the 3.6-liter V6 engine (308 hp and 275 lb-ft) comes standard on base crew-cab, extended-bed models, and it's available as an option on other configurations.
Significantly, the base Canyon presents option packages that aren't available on the SL. Notable features to look out for include remote keyless entry, cruise control and an audio system upgrade package that includes a version of Chevrolet's app-based MyLink system with Bluetooth connectivity, a 7-inch display screen, voice controls, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, OnStar telematics and 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot-spot connectivity.
Instead of picking option packages for the base Canyon, you could upgrade to the SLE, which gets you most of the above as standard, plus 17-inch wheels, power side mirrors, upgraded interior trim materials, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and an upgraded version of the IntelliLink interface with an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, voice and steering wheel controls, and four USB ports (two for the music interface and two for charging).
Much like the base Canyon, the SLE gets most of its options in packages. The All-Terrain package (essentially GMC's equivalent of the off-road-focused Colorado Z71) bundles 17-inch dark-tinted alloy wheels and all-terrain tires, an off-road-oriented suspension, a rear locking differential, hill descent control, heated front seats, a four-way power passenger seat and distinctive cloth upholstery. Also available is the SLE Convenience package that includes automatic climate control, remote start and a sliding rear window.
Even with all those available options, a few things are still left on the table, and right near the top, there's the SLT trim. It gets all the SLE's standard equipment plus the contents of the SLE Convenience package. It also comes with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery and the All-Terrain package's front seating upgrades (power adjustments and heating).
Both the SLE and SLT can be equipped with the optional Driver Alert package that features forward collision warning and lane departure warning. Other optional extras include the 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine (181 hp and 369 lb-ft) paired to a six-speed automatic, an upgraded seven-speaker Bose audio system and a navigation system (an enhancement of the standard 8-inch IntelliLink interface).
If you want all the creature comforts GMC can throw at you, and one of the most luxurious experiences you'll find in a midsize pickup, there's the Canyon Denali. The Denali gets the SLT's equipment plus the contents of the Driver Alert package, the upgraded Bose audio system, chrome 20-inch wheels, cargo lamps, a spray-in bedliner, heated and ventilated front seats, wireless charging for compatible cellphones and a heated steering wheel.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#3 out of 8 among Midsize Trucks
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the GMC Canyon from 2008-2022.$464/yr
vs. $451/yr
for Average Midsize Truck
for Average Midsize Truck
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.65x/yr
vs. 0.79x/yr
for Average Midsize Truck
for Average Midsize Truck
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).14%
vs. 13.6%
for Average Midsize Truck
for Average Midsize Truck
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2017 GMC Canyon.
5 star(54%)
4 star(20%)
3 star(9%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(13%)
84 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Great mid sized pickup with a more formal design
Bob, 10/19/2016
2016 GMC Canyon SLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I've had my GMC Canyon almost 2 months and so far I am very happy with it. I start out with the Cons; at higher road speeds wind noise develops around the front windshield. However below 60mph the cab remains very quiet. Speech recognition for the navigation addresses runs about 60%, manual entry is needed more often then it should be. Otherwise this thing is great. I'm getting … older and the backup camera / assistance really helps me not have to crank my neck around constantly when I backup. The truck maintains it's stable feel when pulling my pontoon boat. The interior is great and innovative; the rear seats fold down forming additional storage in the rear; we actually use it for a nice space for our dog when we go anywhere. If you're an older guy like me you'll like the more refined, formal look of the interior. Overall I am very satisfied with this truck; my wife enjoys driving it also.
5 out of 5 stars
High-end SUV with a bed
Volley, 01/06/2016
2016 GMC Canyon SLT 4dr Crew Cab LB (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
This is a really nice truck. Exceptional ride, handling and interior comfort with a very quiet cab. Fit and finish is excellent and the 8-inch color touchscreen is remarkable. Full-size trucks are too big for my needs and although the Canyon is large, it drives like a mid-sized car Gas mileage is around 22 mpg mixed city/hwy and 25 mpg pure hwy. The Canyon is a great alternative to … a full-size truck or SUV.
UPDATE - Have now had the truck for 6 months and 4200 miles. Still love it. Best 50 mile trip mpg is 28.5 mpg. Especially like the Android Auto feature - no need for factory navigation. I feel like I should list some negatives, but there are so few. Front seats could be a bit wider, would like built in Homelink and rear parking sensors. Overall = A+
UPDATE - Now at 2 years and 18000 miles. Still a great truck and still an A+ overall. Still drives great and extremely quiet inside. Only dealer visits have been 2 oil changes, Android Auto software install and a recall to put a clamp around the heater blend door shaft. All free. Best 50 mile trip mpg is 30.5 I am particular about my vehicles and so far this is one of the best. The combination of a great interior and pickup bed is ideal for a 1 car family.
UPDATE - Now at 2.5 years and 22500 miles. No complaints and no dealer visits as I am doing my own oil changes and tire rotations. Overall MPG for life of vehicle is 22.4 as calculated by DIC.
UPDATE - Now at 4.5 years and 43000 miles. Still no complaints and love the vehicle. Had the dealer apply a free TSB to update the shift points which made a vast improvement as it wanted to get in 6th gear quickly and stay there. Now it is perfect. Overall MPG for life of vehicle is 22.3 as calculated by the DIC.
5 out of 5 stars
Great mid size truck
Andy, 04/25/2016
2016 GMC Canyon SLE 4dr Crew Cab LB (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Great ride ,very quiet cabin, good fuel economy for a truck, 6 cylinder has plenty of power. A pleasure to drive, you would not think you were driving a truck. A lot of tech features if you like that kind of stuff.
3 out of 5 stars
Beware the Chevy Lean!
Andy Paul, 11/23/2017
2017 GMC Canyon 4dr Crew Cab SB (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
Beware the Chevy Lean, surprising that neither Edmunds nor Consumer Reports has addressed this issue! I purchased a 2017 Canyon in October of 2017 after a painful buying experience with the local dealer. I was looking at the Colorados and Canyons based on their high ratings from Edmunds and Consumer reports and that they were US made. The following morning I noticed the truck leaned … significantly to the left, almost 1" when I measured it in my garage. I took it to the dealer who put it on a rack and measured it at 3/8" and said it was within GM spec.s and it was purely cosmetic. I had the dealer take it out on the concrete at the showroom and we measured it at 3/4", dealer said slab could be sloped so turned truck around and put in same place and got 3/4" again. They contacted GM who said they were working on a fix and opened a case file and I was told to wait for a fix. A couple of weeks later I found out on the internet that this has been ongoing on Chevys and GMCs to the extent it even has a name, "The Chevy Lean". Given the years it has been going on, I am wary if GM is indeed actually working on a fix since they haven't fixed it after all these years. I called GM and a Senior Customer Service Adviser called me back. She said she didn't know automotive lingo or technology(Just my luck) but had talked to the dealer who said it was within spec. Case closed! My advice is to stand back 30' or so and check before you sign and drive it home because once you do it's yours and could affect your resale!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2017 GMC Canyon, so we've included reviews for other years of the Canyon since its last redesign.
2017 GMC Canyon video
2017 GMC Canyon Review
Our experts review the 2017 GMC Canyon. Looking for a midsize truck with a smooth ride, strong available engines and many available upscale features? The 2017 GMC Canyon might be a good match. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds… editors.
2017 Canyon Highlights
Extended Cab
SL
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $20,885 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $198/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Canyon models:
- OnStar System
- Provides emergency crash notification, stolen vehicle notification, and remote locking and unlocking.
- Driver Alert Package
- Includes forward collision and lane departure warning systems. This package is optional on the SLE and SLT (standard on the Denali).
- Rearview Camera
- Gives you a view of what's behind you, which is helpful with backing up as well as with connecting a trailer hitch.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover22%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
People who viewed this also viewed
3.0 average Rating out of 8 reviews. |
Starting at $29,500 |
5.0 average Rating out of 5 reviews. |
Starting at $31,500 |
5.0 average Rating out of 1 reviews. |
Starting at $32,670 |
Related Used 2017 GMC Canyon info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Used Toyota Avalon 2013
- Used Lexus GS 200T 2016
- Used Chevrolet Sportvan 2011
- Used BMW M6 2017
- Used Honda CR-V 2018
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2025 Tesla Model X News
- 2023 Cadillac Escalade
- Lincoln Navigator For Sale
- 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe
- Genesis G80
- Lexus Es 350
- 2023 ID.4
- Cadillac XT 6
- 2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
- 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
Research other models of Gmc
- 2024 GMC Sierra 1500
- Gmcat4
- GMC Acadia
- Hummer Ev
- 2024 GMC Acadia
- 2023 Suburban
- Yukon Denali
- Terrain SUV
- GMC Denali Limited
- GMC Canyon Pickup Truck
Research similar vehicles
- 2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty
- 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
- 2024 Silverado 2500HD
- 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty
- 2023 Nissan Truck
- 2023 Silverado 2500HD
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 2023
- 2023 GMC Sierra 1500
Other models
- Used Mclaren 570GT in Plano, TX
- New Audi Q5 for Sale in Wallingford, CT
- New Acura Integra for Sale in Elk River, MN
- Used Cadillac Brougham in Washington, DC
- Used Hyundai Santa-Fe-Plug-In-Hybrid in Sulphur Springs, TX
- Used Chevrolet Venture in Tupelo, MS
- New BMW X6-M for Sale in Clementon, NJ
- New BMW M3 for Sale in Rockford, IL
- Used Buick Regal-Tourx in Claremont, NH
- Used Lexus Is-250 in Lake Havasu City, AZ