GMC Canyon

A twin to the Chevrolet Colorado, the 2023 redesigned Canyon is positioned as slightly more upscale. Like the Chevrolet, the Canyon is available only as a crew cab. It's powered by a 310-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired to an eight-speed automatic. Buyers get a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. For off-road use, several trims provide progressively increased ground clearance and capability, culminating in the new AT4X. Every truck features an 11-inch infotainment screen, with related apps for off-roading and trailering. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but BSW and RCTW are optional.

This version of the Canyon represented the first redesign of the model in 11 years. While it drew lots of praise upon introduction, the reality of the situation is the truck stands out because its competitors are so weak. Ride quality is choppy and jostling, while interior quality is low. If you plan to tow a trailer, save yourself some money and look for one with the trailering package already fitted. Updates for 2016 include Apple CarPlay and an available 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. Updates for 2016 included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and the addition of the optional 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. New for 2017 are an eight-speed automatic and more horsepower to the V6. Updates for the 2020 model year include a new Infotainment system and an available locking tail gate.

The compact Canyon has an unsettled ride and the body quivers constantly. Handling is sound, but unexceptional, and the 48-foot turning circle makes parking maneuvers a chore. The optional four-wheel-drive system is part-time only. Until 2009, the Canyon offered only crude and noisy four- and five-cylinder engines, when a smooth and powerful V8 was added. Updates for 2009 also included standard electronic stability control, as well as the 300-hp V8. The Canyon was dropped after 2012 -- then re-emerged for the 2015 model year.