2026 GMC Canyon

The GMC Canyon is one of our top-rated midsize pickups, and that's not likely to change when the 2026 Canyon arrives later this year. With its impressive towing and hauling capabilities, excellent off-road trims, and a surprisingly strong four-cylinder engine that won't make you yearn for a V6, the Canyon checks about every box you'd want from a midsize truck. It's also a touch classier than most of its rivals, with available premium leather, wood trim and chrome accents that make it feel just as at home in the valet line as on the job site.

Edmunds spotlight: Refresh expected in the next couple years

After a full redesign just a few years ago, it's likely that the Canyon will carry forward into 2026 unchanged. That said, tough competition from recently redesigned alternatives like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma could push GMC to alter the Canyon's trim lineup to provide a compelling value statement. Based on typical vehicle life cycles, we also expect the Canyon to be refreshed in the next one to two years. That would undoubtedly bring low-hanging updates like new bumpers, a restyled grille and new interior styling. But GMC could also go further into the GM parts bin and add items like the hands-free Super Cruise system, which would be a game changer in this segment. We'd also like to see an electrified powertrain under the hood; just a few years ago, GM executives targeted 2026 to roll out a small electric pickup to join the automaker's full-size EV trucks. That trail seems to have gone cold, though GM has recently signaled a preference for plug-in hybrid pickups ...

Competitors to consider

It's a great time to be a midsize-truck buyer. The Canyon has plenty to offer, but its slightly higher price might sway you to peers like its Chevy Colorado mechanical twin or even its Ford Ranger crosstown rival. The recently redesigned Toyota Tacoma now offers more refined on-road manners to complement its legendary off-road capability. If off-road performance is a priority, the Jeep Gladiator deserves a look, while buyers on a tight budget might consider the capable, if average, Nissan Frontier. The Honda Ridgeline can't tow or haul as much, but it can handle most daily truck tasks with ease.

The GMC Canyon will likely carry over its winning ways with few, if any changes, though a refresh is likely on the horizon.