One of the hot markets these days is the medium sized pickup truck arena. For a time, there was a decline in the models in this market with emphasis on the full size trucks. That has changed dramatically in the last few years with multiple new entrants. One of those new players has been the dedicated truck/ SUV maker GMC with the introduction of the Canyon. And with the Canyon, there are multiple choices of body style and powertrains. For the 2020 model year, the exterior will receive some changes mostly with a large grille (which is already very large and distinctive), the headlight layout, and the front bumper.
Multiple engines are available, but one transmission has been dropped this year…not surprisingly, the 6-speed manual. The base engine is a 2.5-liter, four cylinder developing 200 horsepower, and it is tied to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Next up to bat is a 2.8-liter diesel with tons of torque (pulling power) and better fuel mileage, but less horsepower in the form of 181 ponies. It is also hooked up to the six-speed automatic. But the real power comes with an optional 3.6 liter V-6 developing 308 horsepower and it is tied up with two additional gears to an automatic transmission (i.e., eight speeds). Interestingly, this engine at modest speeds shuts down cylinders to save fuel. Rear wheel drive is the standard equipment, and four-wheel drive is optional. Two cab set-ups are available. The extended cab layout has rear seats but rear room is tight. However, the extended cab has 4 full sized doors with more room in back. And depending on the cab length, the truck bed length changes from a little more than 5 feet to a little more than 6 feet. And there are seemingly endless sub model choices. Pricing starts at about $23,000. Our loaded test model, an all wheel drive Terrain Crew Cab with the V-6 engine, starts at about $38,000.
Inside there is plenty of room up front with two supportive front seats. A large center console separates the two seats. It also has a deep and large storage area under the armrest. An automatic air conditioning system is provided. Above the temperature controls is an eight-inch touch and colorful video screen. And like many, in reverse gear, a camera highlights what is behind the truck bed. In the dashpod, is a much smaller screen between the gauges, which can show information about radio station choices, digital speed readouts, gas mileage, etc. Behind the steering wheel are paddles to change the sound level of the radio or the station choices. A Wi-Fi hot spot is also part of the package.
In our crew cab model, there is room for 3 in the back seats. However, for full size adults, the front passengers may have to move their seats forward. There is a large and useful armrest with cupholders that can be dropped. Additional storage is available with a pouch behind the passenger front seat. For carrying large items the seat backs can be dropped down for a flat storage surface. A vent in the middle of the back window can be easily slid open for more ventilation. The pickup bed on our model was covered with a spray on lining to protect the surf. The tailgate can be locked.
On the road, the V-6 operates in relative silence unless truly hammered, and with a fair amount of thrust with a 0-60 time 7.1 seconds. Likewise, the 8-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly. And for those who want to shift, a button on the gearlever can be activated to change the gears manually. The ride is generally comfortable, but particularly rough pavement can be felt. With the four-wheel drive system, the driver can use a dial to go from 2 wheel drive to 4 wheel drive high to 4 wheel drive low. And with big alloy wheels and tires, this GMC towers above most of the rest of vehicle world. Interestingly, the engine can be started remotely, and when the engine is turned off a reminder appears in the dashpod to telling the driver to check for a passenger or child in the back seat.
So for 2020, this GMC truck receives a styling refresh and some minor powertrain changes. But more importantly there are multiple engines, body styles, and drivetrains still available.
Tech Specs
Model: Midsize Pickup Truck
Price: Base $22,299 as tested $37,900.
Powertrain: 2.5-liter, 4 cylinder, 200 hp.; 3.6-liter V-6 308 hp; 2.8-liter diesel, 4 cylinder, 181 h.p.; 6-speed automatic transmission, 8-speed automatic transmission. RWD, AWD.
Fuel mileage: test truck (V-6 cylinder all wheel drive) 19 m.p.g. average, 17 m.p.g city, 24 m.p.g. highway.
Performance: test truck (V-6 cylinder) 0-60: 7.1 seconds.
High Beams: Make your choice of engines, transmissions, cab designs, and pickup bed lengths. High above many vehicles. Distinctive design particularly in the front area.
Low Beam: A little tight in the crew cab back seat.
COURTESY OF CUTTER BUICK GMC