What’s Better GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado? 9 Pickup Showdown
Want to know how the GMC Canyon compares to the Chevy Colorado? We’ll check out what makes these midsize pickups different and alike.
Both are built by General Motors and have similar engines and features. They’re made to offer you the best of both worlds – performance and comfort.
We’ll give you a detailed look at each model. We’ll cover their designs, comfort levels, engines, how much they can tow, their prices, safety scores, and what customers think of them.
After this, you’ll know which truck is the best match for your needs. Ready to find out more?
Introduction To Midsize Pickup Trucks
Midsize pickup trucks are becoming more popular in the U.S. truck market. People are choosing these trucks over full-size ones.
In 2019, sales of midsize trucks jumped by 22%, the highest in 13 years. The Toyota Tacoma led with a 39% market share.
The Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon together sold 155,129 units. This was nearly 25% of all pickups sold.
These trucks mix compact size with the power of larger trucks. They fit well in both city and countryside settings.
They have engines ranging from four-cylinder to V6, offering power and good gas mileage. Most also have four-wheel-drive, making them great for tough roads or bad weather.
Midsize pickup trucks can tow between 3,500 to 7,700 pounds. They can carry loads of 1,400 to 2,700 pounds. This makes them perfect for different kinds of hauling jobs.
They also have cargo beds that are 5 to 6 feet long. This means you can move stuff without needing a bigger truck.
These trucks are easier to drive in cities because of their size. They appeal to many people, from those who love outdoor adventures to everyday drivers.
Despite potential changes in the economy by February 2025, these trucks remain popular. They play an important part in the vehicle world.
Overview of GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon is a standout truck in the midsize category, known for its strong build and sleek looks.
It meets various needs, making it perfect for both work and comfort seekers. Its design is robust, highlighted by the latest tech features.
Different trim options make the GMC Canyon quite appealing. For those who love off-road adventures, the AT4 trim offers improved suspension and better traction.
If luxury is what you’re after, the Denali trim provides top-quality materials and elegant finishes. This enhances the truck’s inside feel.
The interior of the GMC Canyon is warm and welcoming, thanks to high-end materials. The easy-to-use infotainment system makes driving more enjoyable.
As a midsize truck, it expertly mixes practicality with stylishness. This makes it a great choice for today’s drivers.

Overview of Chevy Colorado
The Chevy Colorado stands out in the midsize truck world. It’s known for its flexibility and usefulness for all kinds of drives.
It has a strong lineup with engines that offer great performance. This includes a diesel engine that saves on fuel.
These engines give you the power you need for towing and moving big loads, making the Colorado a reliable truck.
Let’s talk about Chevy Colorado features. Inside, the design is thoughtful. It includes the latest tech and connectivity to make driving better.
Safety is also a big deal, with features that protect you while driving. The truck is well-made, which many owners like because it lasts a long time.
Looking at Chevy Colorado specifications, there are different models for different needs. From simple base models to the adventure-ready ZR2, there’s something for everyone.
This lets you pick a Colorado that fits your life, whether you need it for work or fun.

GMC Canyon vs Chevy Colorado: Key Features
In the world of midsize pickup trucks, how they look and feel matters a lot. The GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado stand out with their unique styles, meeting different needs.
Knowing about these can help you pick the one that fits what you want and need.
Design and Styling
The GMC Canyon brings elegance to the table with its refined look. It features stylish chrome touches and a classy front grille.
For those who want their vehicles to have a touch of luxury, the Canyon is a great choice. On the other hand, the Chevy Colorado goes for a tough and bold vibe.
It shows off aggressive lines and a strong presence. This design aims at those who look for strength and capability.
This clear design difference highlights what each brand is best for, catering to various tastes and needs.
Interior Comfort and Tech
Both trucks impress with their tech and comfort inside. The GMC Canyon uses high-quality materials for a cozy cabin feel.
Its tech makes sure you stay connected easily, making each ride enjoyable without losing on utility.
The Chevy Colorado also keeps up with tech trends but puts a focus on being practical. Its design suits those who might use their truck for tougher jobs.
Although not as fancy as the Canyon, the Colorado’s inside is still designed to be both comfortable and useful.

Performance Comparison
In discussing the performance of the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado, we consider engine types and towing capabilities.
Both trucks are powerful and designed to perform in a range of conditions. This knowledge helps in making a smart choice.
Engine Options
The GMC Canyon starts with a standard four-cylinder engine, great for day-to-day use. If you need more power, V6 options are available for faster, more thrilling drives.
The Chevy Colorado, though, starts strong with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine for quick acceleration and impressive torque.
It also offers a diesel engine to boost towing capacity and fuel economy. Such options allow you to tailor the truck’s performance to match what you need.
Towing Capacity
Towing strength is key in comparing the two trucks. The GMC Canyon reaches up to 7,700 pounds with the right setup, a solid option for heavy loads.
The Chevy Colorado also pulls up to 7,700 pounds, depending on the engine. Both excel in towing, making it easier to haul trailers or other items.
Your choice might come down to which engine you prefer or how you plan to use the truck.

Pricing and Value
Choosing between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado means looking at their prices first.
Each truck has different features and prices, so you can find one that fits your budget and needs.
This part will talk about their costs now and how good of an investment they are for the future.
Initial Costs
The price to buy a GMC Canyon or Chevy Colorado varies. The GMC Canyon costs more because it has fancier features and looks a bit more luxurious.
On the other hand, the Chevy Colorado is easier on your wallet, making it a good pick if you’re trying to save money.
| Model | Starting MSRP | Highest Trim MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| GMC Canyon | $27,000 | $45,000 |
| Chevy Colorado | $26,000 | $42,000 |
Long-term Value
Looking ahead, the Chevy Colorado tends to cost less in the long run when you think about upkeep and how much gas it uses.
It offers good quality for the price, which means it could save you money over time. The GMC Canyon, though more expensive at first, has an upscale feel that might keep its value better.
Deciding which is better for you depends on what you think about owning a car for many years.
Safety Features and Ratings
When we talk about midsize pickups, the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado are top choices for safety. They come packed with high-tech safety features.
This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert, making your drives safer.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) give these trucks good scores.
These scores prove the GMC Canyon’s ability to protect people inside. It shows the truck’s solid build and advanced safety tech.
The Chevy Colorado’s safety features make daily driving safer and give families peace of mind. It comes with automatic emergency braking and a rearview camera as standard.
This makes the Colorado a great pick for those who focus on safety. Knowing about safety ratings and how these technologies work helps you choose wisely.
If crash-test ratings or advanced driver-assistance systems matter to you, both trucks excel in safety features.
Available Trim Levels
The GMC Canyon has a range of trims to match your lifestyle and taste. You can choose from key GMC Canyon trims like:
- Elevation: The basic model designed for everyday use, with must-have features.
- AT4: Made for off-road adventures, this trim comes with special features for tough terrain.
- Denali: The luxury trim, offering top-notch comforts and sleek design.
In comparison, the Chevy Colorado offers different setups for varied needs. Big Chevy Colorado setups include:
- Work Truck (WT): This starting model is ideal for those who need essential functions.
- Z71: It mixes capability with comfort for balanced performance.
- ZR2: This trim is for the bold, enhancing performance in extreme conditions.
Looking at these options helps you decide wisely. Each model offers distinctive features fit for different people.
Whether you want luxury or to take on the dirt roads, the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado have options for you.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
Customer reviews are very important when looking at the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado. Users have shared a lot of feedback.
This helps us understand how happy owners are and how reliable these vehicles are. GMC Canyon owners talk a lot about the high-end feel of the interior and the smooth ride.
They love the advanced tech that makes driving better. Many point out the cozy seats and quiet inside, making the truck feel fancy.
Chevy Colorado owners focus on how tough and ready for action it is. They praise its ability to tow heavy loads, perfect for those who need a strong vehicle.
The truck is also known for doing well off-road, drawing in those who love adventures.
To give a brief overview of what people think about these trucks, we’ve put together a table:
| Features | GMC Canyon | Chevy Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Comfort | High-quality materials; Quiet ride | Functional and practical; Good visibility |
| Towing Capacity | Capable, but not the best in class | Among the top in its segment |
| Off-Road Performance | Decent, especially in AT4 trim | Highly praised; Excellent under rugged conditions |
| User Ratings | Highly rated for comfort and tech | Highly rated for durability and performance |
This comparison gives potential buyers a clear picture. It helps you choose between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado based on what real users say.
Conclusion
In summary, the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado offer two good choices in the midsize pickup segment for different needs.
The Canyon shines with luxury features and great towing capacity. It’s perfect for those who want comfort and high tech.
The Colorado, on the other hand, is all about practicality and saving money. It has strong off-road abilities that attract people looking for value.
When choosing the best midsize pickup, think about what matters most to you. Is it the Canyon’s high-end features or the Colorado’s tough reliability?
Both trucks come with strong turbocharged engines and different configurations. They’re ready to take on a range of tasks and provide a great drive.
This breakdown gives you the info needed to choose wisely. Whether you prefer the GMC Canyon’s class or the Chevy Colorado’s usefulness, there’s a truck out there for you in the busy midsize truck market.
FAQs
What are the main differences between the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado?
The GMC Canyon has a luxury vibe, with posh trims like the Denali. On the other hand, the Chevy Colorado focuses on being tough and powerful. It shines with its ZR2 off-road model.
Which pickup has better towing capacity?
The Chevy Colorado leads in towing, thanks to its diesel engine. It’s the go-to for pulling heavier loads than the Canyon can handle.
Are the safety features in both trucks comparable?
Yes, both trucks boast cutting-edge safety features. They have adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert. Safety experts give them top marks.
What is the price range for the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado?
The GMC Canyon starts at a pricier point, matching its high-end image. Meanwhile, the Chevy Colorado is easier on the wallet. It appeals to buyers looking for value.
How do the engine options compare between the two pickups?
Both pickups offer four-cylinder and V6 engines. But the Colorado adds a turbocharged four-cylinder and a diesel. The diesel gives more torque than any Canyon engine.
What are the available trim levels for both trucks?
The GMC Canyon has trims like Elevation, AT4, and Denali. The Chevy Colorado ranges from the Work Truck (WT) to the ZR2. So, there’s something for everyone, whether you want luxury or performance.
How reliable are the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado based on customer reviews?
Customers love the Canyon for its classy features and smooth ride. The Colorado gets thumbs up for being tough and reliable. Both have good reliability scores from drivers.
