2017 GMC Canyon Review

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 a...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The IntelliLink infotainment interface has quick responses and big, legible controls, and physical buttons are logically placed and easy to read.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

To learn more about the GMC Canyon of this generation, read our updates from a full year of living with a 2015 Chevrolet Colorado. The Colorado is essentially the Canyon's twin, so many of our observations will apply to the Canyon. We cover everything from seat comfort to real-world fuel economy. Pl...