2017 GMC Canyon and the Chevy Colorado
Both developed by General Motors, the two are virtually identical in specifications. However I am going to break them both down to give my opinion on which does pull out ahead. Now, this is going to be similar to deciding which one is better Pepsi or Coke, but it’s ultimately going to boil down to preferability.
Both offer a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel engine giving effective drivability and tow rating. Both have the capability of hauling 7700 pounds which is impressive for a mid-sized truck. This is ideal for buyers looking for a capable vehicle that is more practical to maneuver around. With a gracious amount of torque (369-lbs) and upgraded 8-speed transmission, there is no usually lag off the line when driving. The Duramax turbo-diesel and turbo-diesel featured in the Chevy Colorado both are surprisingly quiet. I was anticipating that there would be a louder than usual hum from the engine. However, both trucks feature an extra layer of paneling to lower the sound.
Edge: Tie
The offered diesel engine capability makes the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon the most fuel-efficient trucks on the market. The Chevy Colorado offers a 13.6L/100km city and a 9.9L/100km highway. The Canyon edges out over Colorado. The GMC Canyon sports a 10.8L/100km city and 7.7L/100km highway capability. This may be only a slight improvement, but this could be costly since gas prices are sky-high at the moment.
Edge: GMC Canyon
Safety-wise General Motors has supplied both trucks with 6 standard airbags, lane departure warning, collision alert, traction control and StabiliTrak® stability control system. StabiliTrak® seamlessly detects unrecognizable or un-foreseeable road conditions like ice or hydroplaning. Both also offer a 5 years/160 000 km powertrain limited warranty.
Edge: Tie
The interior of both trucks is simple and lacks flare. It’s preferred for most people that don’t want too many complicated nobs and switches, but the lack of push start and keyless entry is a miss. There is seating for five, and is spacious for being mid-sized trucks. The display screen and technology are Apple car play compatible as well as a featured Wi-Fi hotspot. The seats are made of a higher quality material in the GMC Canyon which takes the edge in the category. Not to mention the GMC Canyon features the Denali® upgrade possibility.
Edge: GMC Canyon
The exterior is more of personal judgment and opinion. They both have similar features, both look nice but this comes down to the small features. Similar to the attraction of a person, you may find things that look nice in one, but the nose is a little off, compared to the bad eyebrows on another. This is where people will have to choose for themselves. The Chevy Colorado has a rugged look to the hood in the Zr2 class, giving it a meaner look. However, the GMC Canyon has additions of chrome in the grille and door handles. Now, personally feel the GMC Canyon grille is more appealing than the Colorado.
Edge: GMC Canyon
Being two identical mid-sized trucks, it’s apparent upon dissecting that the GMC Canyon is suited more for the executive, business class while the Chevy Colorado is for the everyday blue collar worker. Styling wise is important to some, but functionality and performance are what it comes down to. Both mid-sized trucks will get the job done. However one surprisingly comes at a lower price. This brings me to my verdict being the Chevy Colorado is the better truck out of the two. The Price of the GMC Canyon is starting at $23 160, while the Chevy Colorado starts at $22 130. Regardless, it’s all about priorities. Some people are willing to shackle up more money for the slight increase in luxury. However, I am not. I am as cheap as they come.
Verdict: Chevy Colorado
Key Points:
GMC Canyon
- Starting at: $23 160
- 8L/100km City and 7.7L/100km Highway
- 8-litre 4 cylinder Duramax® Eco-Diesel
Chevy Colorado
- Starting at: $22 130
- 6L/100km City and 9.9L/100km Highway
- 8-litre 4 cylinder turbo-diesel
