2023 GMC Canyon Review

The 2023 GMC Canyon midsize pickup gets a full redesign this year, and it retains what we liked about the previous-generation model while improving everything else. GMC packages the new Canyon with a focus on what's popular, so it comes only in a crew-cab short-bed configuration with a standard off-road suspension and stance. Every 2023 Canyon features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine providing robust power and stump-pulling torque, and most versions of the truck include four-wheel drive. New infotainment, safety and convenience technologies debut, and the interior is roomier and more refined than before.

The redesigned Canyon's emphasis on off-roading is most evident in the new AT4X model. It shares its hardware with its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, but wrapped in more upscale styling. This is particularly true inside the cab, where the GMC's more expressive detailing and premium materials help to justify the higher price compared to the Chevy. Highlights of the Canyon AT4X include 33-inch mud-terrain tires, an exclusive Baja driving mode, electronic locking front and rear differentials, Multimatic DSSV dampers, and improved ground clearance and approach angles compared to the Canyon AT4.

You have a lot of fresh midsize truck hardware to pick from. Besides the related Chevy Colorado, the Canyon also competes with the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma, both of which will be redesigned for 2024. Jeep's Gladiator is also a great option, particularly if you plan on going off-road.

Considering the popularity of off-road-ready pickups, we think the Canyon AT4 will give you the most bang for your buck. It's not quite as capable as the AT4X, but it holds its own in most off-roading situations and saves you a considerable sum of money.

The 2023 GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup truck available in a crew-cab short-bed configuration with your choice of four trim levels: Elevation, AT4, AT4X and Denali. All four are powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four (310 horsepower, 430 lb-ft) paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Elevation comes standard with two-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive with a true low range is optional on that trim and standard on the AT4, AT4X and Denali.