GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado: Which Wins?
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado stand out as top midsize pickup trucks. They are perfect for those who want strength and versatility without a big size.
Which truck is better in the GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado debate? These trucks share a lot of parts and are similar, but they have their own special features.
This article will look at their engines, performance, prices, gas mileage, towing abilities, and what’s inside to help you decide.
The Chevy Colorado has a lower starting price at $33,500 for the WT model, while the Canyon Elevation starts at $40,000.
This difference in price might affect your decision, especially if you’re watching your budget. Both trucks come with a strong 2.7-liter turbocharged engine.
They can tow up to 7,700 pounds. Keep reading to find out which truck meets your needs in terms of power, comfort, or overall value.
Introduction To Midsize Pickup Trucks
Midsize pickup trucks mix daily driving ease and weekend fun. They have plenty of room for people and are easy to drive in cities.
These trucks can tow trailers or carry loads too. The 2025 GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado are great choices for different needs.
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado have a strong turbocharged 2.7-liter engine. This engine gives you 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.
They are great for those who want power but also care about gas mileage. The Canyon gets 19 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway.
The Colorado does a bit better, with 20 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. These trucks can pull up to 7,700 lbs, making them great for hauling.
This feature is perfect for taking work gear or toys for a trip. Both trucks have special features for off-roading and city driving. So, you can choose based on what you enjoy most.
Engine Options and Performance
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado offer strong engines, putting them at the top in the midsize pickup truck scene.
The GMC Canyon starts with a powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder that gives 200 horsepower. If you want more power, the Canyon has a 3.6-liter V6 engine.
This engine makes 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. The Colorado also has a V6 engine. It has the same horsepower but a bit less torque at 260 lb-ft.
For even better performance, the Canyon has a 2.7-liter turbo-4 engine. This engine can do 310 horsepower and an amazing 430 lb-ft of torque.
Both trucks have an 8-speed automatic transmission. This makes their drive smooth in different conditions. They offer strong towing ability and quick acceleration.
The GMC Canyon also offers a diesel engine, a 2.8-liter Duramax that has 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
This engine lets the Canyon tow up to 7,700 pounds. The Colorado can tow up to 7,600 pounds. This shows it’s also strong in performance.
| Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| GMC Canyon 2.5L I4 | 200 | N/A | N/A |
| GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 | 308 | 275 | N/A |
| Chevy Colorado 3.6L V6 | 308 | 260 | N/A |
| GMC Canyon 2.8L Duramax Diesel | 181 | 369 | 7,700 |
| Chevy Colorado Diesel | N/A | N/A | 7,600 |
If you’re choosing between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado, think about what you need.
Consider how much towing power you want, the engine options, and how the truck performs. Both trucks are made to meet many different needs.
GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado Comparison
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado are big deals in the midsize pickup world. They come from the same roots, sharing many parts.
This makes them alike in many ways. Yet, they stand apart in what they offer and how they present themselves. The Canyon goes for a luxury vibe with high-end materials and options.
It’s for those who want comfort with their truck. On the other side, the Colorado is more about value. It’s less expensive and attracts folks looking for a good deal.
Each truck suits different tastes and needs, making it important to compare the two. Both trucks are great off the road. The Colorado ZR2 has a special suspension and shocks for tough terrain.
The Canyon, especially with its AT4 and AT4X trims, also shines off-road. It has tech and features designed for the wild.
| Feature | GMC Canyon | Chevy Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $40,000 (Elevation) | $33,500 (WT) |
| Max Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs | 7,700 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | Just shy of 1,700 lbs | 1,684 lbs |
| Legroom | 34.7 inches | Varies by trim |
| Infotainment System | Optional larger screen | Standard 11.3-inch touchscreen |
| TCC Rating | 5.3 out of 10 | 5.4 out of 10 |
Knowing these details helps in understanding the difference between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado.
Each serves a specific purpose for drivers. They both offer solid performance and meet the varied needs of their owners.
Pricing and Trims
When looking at the GMC Canyon and the Chevy Colorado, the prices and trims are key. The Chevrolet Colorado starts at $33,495 with the WT trim.
This makes it appealing for those watching their budget. On the other hand, the GMC Canyon starts at $39,995 for the Elevation trim. As you explore higher trims, the price gap grows.
Base Price and Trims Overview
Both trucks have great base models, but their prices show different values. Let’s look at the starting prices and trims:
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet Colorado WT | $33,495 |
| GMC Canyon Elevation | $39,995 |
| Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison | $58,500 |
| GMC Canyon Denali | $67,030 |
Fully Loaded Models: What You Get?
The GMC Canyon Denali and Chevy Colorado ZR2 are top picks for fully loaded models. The Denali costs around $67,030, and the Colorado ZR2 is about $62,895.
The Canyon Denali boasts luxe features like digital gauges and an 11.3-inch touchscreen. The Colorado, while less expensive, still offers great features for its price.
This difference in cost between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado is tied to the quality and features each offers.
Fuel Efficiency Ratings
Comparing the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado’s fuel efficiency is key. Mileage ratings help make smart choices. Fuel cost is important for regular drivers, influencing overall expenses.
City and Highway Mileage Comparison
The Chevy Colorado leads slightly in fuel efficiency. It gets 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on highways.
The GMC Canyon matches the city mileage but has 23 MPG on highways. This small difference shows their efficiency in daily use.
Impact on Driving Costs
Looking at fuel economy’s long-term effects is crucial. The Chevy Colorado’s better MPG can save money on fuel for frequent drivers.
Compromise these differences helps you choose the right truck for your budget and needs.
| Truck Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Colorado | 19 | 24 |
| GMC Canyon | 19 | 23 |
Towing Capacity: Which Truck Pulls More?
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado are big players in the midsize truck scene. They both boast a towing ability of up to 7,700 lbs.
This makes them versatile for towing trailers for fun or carrying big loads for work.
Maximum Towing Capacities
The GMC Canyon has a strong engine with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This helps it reach top towing performance.
It’s smooth for towing, making it a top pick for heavy hauling. The Chevy Colorado matches this power, setting both trucks as top choices for towing.
Payload Capacities Explained
Payload capacity is just as important as towing. The GMC Canyon can carry up to 1,499 lbs. But the Chevy Colorado can handle more, with a payload capacity of 1,684 lbs. This shows how the Colorado can carry more weight in its truck bed.
Interior Features and Comfort
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado offer different interior features. Both aim to provide a comfy setting. Yet, they each bring their own style and function to the table.
Cab Space and Design Quality
The GMC Canyon, especially in its Denali trims, features luxury touches. You’ll find leather seats and top-notch materials. It also offers heated seats and dual-zone climate control for extra comfort on long drives.
Meanwhile, the Chevy Colorado is more about being practical. It may not have the fancy features but is still very roomy. This makes it great for carrying both people and stuff comfortably.
Infotainment Systems and Connectivity
The GMC Canyon boasts an 11.3-inch touchscreen and a Bose sound system. This mix of tech and comfort gives drivers and passengers a better ride.
The Colorado has good tech too but is more about saving money. Both trucks let you easily connect your devices. But, the Canyon’s tech is a bit more advanced.
Exterior Design and Aesthetics
The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado show two different exterior design styles. The GMC Canyon offers a sophisticated look with sharp lines and a bold grille.
This design focuses on a luxury feel and aims to attract those who want elegance and function. The Chevy Colorado, meanwhile, goes for a traditional pickup look.
It highlights strength and practicality. Its design is sturdy but doesn’t overshadow the Canyon’s luxurious vibe. The Colorado is great for those who need a reliable truck that also looks good.
Both trucks come with modern features like LED lights and stylish wheels that enhance their looks.
So, drivers can choose a model that fits their style and needs. The outside of these trucks appeals to different tastes.
| Aspect | GMC Canyon | Chevy Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Theme | Sophisticated luxury | Traditional pickup robustness |
| Grille Design | Prominent and aggressive | Bold and functional |
| Body Lines | Sharp and sleek | Muscular and straightforward |
| Light Features | Modern LED lighting | Standard LED lights |
| Wheel Designs | Refined options available | Robust styling options |
Safety Ratings and Features
When picking out a pickup truck, safety is key. The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado safety ratings show us their crash test results and how well their safety features work.
Although not fully tested by the IIHS, they both got a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. This shows they meet solid safety standards.
Both trucks come with important safety tools like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. There are also optional extras like adaptive cruise control to make them safer.
In 2017, the Colorado got extra safety upgrades, especially in the A-pillar and lower hinge pillar, which boosted its safety scores.
| Feature | GMC Canyon | Chevy Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Overall NHTSA Rating | 4 Stars | 4 Stars |
| Driver Injury Ratings | Head/neck (G), Chest (G), Leg/foot (G) | Head/neck (G), Chest (G), Hip/thigh (G), Lower leg/foot (G) |
| Passenger Injury Ratings | Moderate overlap tested | Small overlap front (Passenger-side rating) |
| Small Overlap Front Ratings | Driver-side: G | Driver-side: G |
| Side Crash Ratings | G | G |
| Roof Strength Rating | G | G |
When we look at the GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado for safety, both trucks shine in many areas.
Whether you’re looking for top-notch safety features or sturdy build quality, each truck offers something for those who value safety.
Reliability Ratings and Owner Satisfaction
Looking at the GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado, we focus on their reliability and how happy their owners are. Both score a strong 4.0 out of 5.0 for reliability.
This ranks the GMC Canyon 2nd and the Chevrolet Colorado 4th among midsize trucks. These scores show both trucks are dependable.
On average, owning a GMC Canyon costs about $548 yearly for repairs. The Chevrolet Colorado’s yearly repair costs are around $599. Both have repairs that are usually not too severe.
Significant problems are rare for both trucks, according to their owners. Owners have a lot to say about their satisfaction levels. The GMC Canyon has dedicated fans, with several high ratings.
In contrast, the Chevrolet Colorado has earned even more positive reviews. However, the Canyon has fewer reported problems, 422, and 34 recalls.
The Colorado has more problems, 1,033, but the same number of recalls. The table below shows a clear comparison of their reliability:
| Metric | GMC Canyon | Chevrolet Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability Rating | 4.0/5.0 | 4.0/5.0 |
| Ranking | 2nd out of 7 | 4th out of 7 |
| Average Annual Repair Cost | $548 | $599 |
| Repair Severity | Average | Average |
| Frequency of Issues | Low | Low |
| Total Known Problems | 422 | 1033 |
| Total Known Recalls | 34 | 34 |
In the end, the GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado are pretty close in reliability. Yet, the GMC Canyon leads slightly in making its owners happy, thanks to its upscale features. This likely explains why its owners are so loyal.
Off-Road Capabilities of Both Trucks
When comparing the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado for off-roading, both are ready for tough paths. The GMC Canyon has off-road trims like the AT4.
It boasts a ground clearance of 9.6 inches and a locking rear differential for better grip on uneven terrain. These features make it great for light off-roading and trail rides.
The Chevy Colorado goes even further with its ZR2 model. It has an advanced suspension and better angles for taking on tougher challenges.
With 10.7 inches of ground clearance, the ZR2 stands out on rough trails. Its lifted suspension and both front and rear electronic locking differentials offer more stability and traction across various landscapes.
Both trucks can carry nearly 1,700 pounds and tow up to 7,700 pounds. However, the Canyon AT4X, despite its off-road gear, tows slightly less.
When deciding between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado for off-roading, think about your adventure level. The Colorado might be the go-to for those seeking more extreme challenges.
Conclusion
Choosing between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado depends on what you want and need. Both trucks are good choices but offer different things.
If luxury and cool features are important to you, the GMC Canyon is the way to go. It has high-quality materials, the latest tech, and great off-road options like the AT4X.
The top versions also have comfy heated seats and an awesome Bose sound system. The Chevy Colorado stands out for being useful and more affordable.
It offers great base models for those watching their budget but still wanting a reliable truck. It’s simpler but still delivers in performance.
Even without the fancy features, it’s a solid pick. Both trucks can tow up to 7,700 lbs, showing they’re pretty much equal in power.
In the end, choosing between the GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado means considering what’s more important to you: luxury or saving money.
Look at their performance, comfort, and price differences. This will help you pick the truck that best fits your lifestyle and needs.
FAQs
What are the main differences between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado?
The GMC Canyon is the fancier option with high-end features. The Chevy Colorado focuses on being more affordable, emphasizing practicality and utility.
How do the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado compare in terms of towing capacity?
Both trucks can tow up to 7,700 lbs. The Canyon can carry about 1,499 lbs. Meanwhile, the Colorado can handle roughly 1,684 lbs.
Which truck has better fuel efficiency: GMC Canyon or Chevy Colorado?
The Chevy Colorado is slightly more fuel-efficient. It gets 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The Canyon gets 19 MPG city and 23 MPG highway.
What are the engine options for the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado?
Both have a powerful 2.7-liter turbo-4 engine. It produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission pairs with it.
How do the pricing structures compare between the two trucks?
The Chevy Colorado starts at about ,500. The GMC Canyon’s starting price is around ,000. Prices rise with fully loaded models.
What safety features are standard in the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado?
Both trucks have key safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Options like adaptive cruise control are available too.
Which truck is more reliable, the GMC Canyon or the Chevy Colorado?
Both trucks are seen as reliable. However, the GMC Canyon might please owners more with its upscale options and comfort.
Are there off-road variants available for both the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado?
Yes, both have off-road versions. The GMC Canyon has the AT4 trim. The Chevy Colorado offers the ZR2, known for its great off-road ability.
