not all . Some automakers invest significant time and resources into new engineering, features, and technology, only to be scorned by consumers and critics alike. But the 2023 GMC’s overhaul is a hit with both, thanks to some cool new features that bring out everything buyers look for and love about the model.
What was the 2022 GMC Canyon like?
Just because the 2023 Canyon is a huge improvement over previous models doesn’t mean the 2022 Edition was a bad buy. In fact, quite the opposite.
, although it is a little more expensive. The Canyon’s exterior design is appropriately rugged for this class. It also featured three different powertrain options. There’s a 2.5-liter I-4 making 200 horsepower, a 308-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, and a 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel I-4 making 181 horsepower, all available with either rear- or all-wheel drive.
Canyon is available with a choice of Crew Cab or Extended Cab. With the Crew Cab, prospective buyers can get a Short Box (61.7-inch bed) or a Long Box (74.0-inch bed). The extended cab is only available with the long box.
Every Canyon comes with an infotainment touchscreen (7.0-inch standard, 8.0-inch on higher-level trims) compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as forward collision warning and lane departure warning systems.
Where the valley falls short in his cabin. It’s a bit narrow, and while the design is serviceable, it doesn’t really stand out. It’s also a bit more expensive than other vehicles in this segment, which makes the middling interior quality, especially in the higher trims, stand out. And the aforementioned safety features are all that come standard. There aren’t a lot of extras available for additional charging either.
How does the 2023 GMC Canyon improve over previous models?
According to the 2023 model is very different from the previous year’s model – and that’s a good thing. The 2023 version has just one powertrain variation, though it’s more powerful than before.
The Canyon is powered by a 310-hp turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive (four-wheel drive is also available). But even though it’s the only option, Canyon still offers superior performance and handling to rival its competitors in this segment.
Now, GMC is also dropping another set of options: cab and bed configurations. You can only get the 2023 Canyon crew cab and short bed. And at about $38,000, it costs more than last year’s version. But the exterior and interior design is much improved, and the latter is packed with the advanced standard safety systems one would expect at this price point.
One of the biggest improvements is the AT4X trim – an excellent off-road variant that delivers a massive driving experience. From the higher ground clearance to the 33-inch mud terrain tires, the AT4X is built specifically for tough terrain. Add $5,000 to the base price, but the Specialized shocks, skid plates, locking differentials and drive modes are worth it.
What about Denali?
Those who were disappointed with the 2022 Denali Canyon will be pleased to know that GMC has greatly improved the 2023 version. Instead of the bland interior of its predecessor, the new version is finished in leather and wood and comes with an 11.3-inch touchscreen, an 11-inch digital array, and a seven-speaker premium audio system.
One of the coolest new features is the Safety Alert Driver Seat, which pairs the collision warning systems with the driver’s seat. Instead of simply hearing an alert or seeing a notification on the digital cluster, drivers will feel their seats vibrate if there is a risk of an imminent collision. It’s nice to see this inclusion, especially since previous models gave short attention to advanced security systems.
If you’re looking for a similar but cheaper midsize Denali experience, the range-topping Chevy Colorado ZR2, which is identical, might be a good choice. There was a limited, custom-built variant of the AT4X—Version 1—which included special badging, bumper and grille design, and underbody cameras, among other features.
