The GMC Canyon Crew Cab, specifically the variant equipped with the 2.8-liter (175 hp) engine and four-wheel drive, was produced for the 2004 and 2005 model years. This mid-size pickup truck represented GMC’s entry into the increasingly popular compact pickup segment, offering a more refined alternative to full-size trucks while still providing respectable capability. The Canyon, along with its Chevrolet Colorado counterpart, was based on the GMT325 platform, marking GMC’s first foray into a truly modern, body-on-frame mid-size truck. The Crew Cab configuration, with its extended rear doors and increased rear seat space, aimed to appeal to families and those needing more passenger room than a standard cab pickup could offer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon I Crew cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8 (175 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 251 Nm @ 2800 rpm (185.13 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LK5 Vortec 2800 |
| Engine displacement | 2770 cm3 (169.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt | 8.62 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1728 kg (3809.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2404 kg (5299.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 676 kg (1490.32 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1039 l (36.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74.2 l (19.6 US gal | 16.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 5260 mm (207.09 in.) |
| Width | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Height | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3198 mm (125.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 127 mm (5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/75 R15; 225/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Canyon variant is the LK5 2.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine, a member of General Motors’ Vortec family. This engine utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable valve timing (CVVT) for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly to each cylinder, optimizing combustion. The 2.8L engine produced 175 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm. This power was delivered through a standard five-speed manual transmission to the four-wheel drive system. The transverse engine layout, common in front-wheel drive based vehicles, was adapted for the Canyon’s body-on-frame construction.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.8-liter engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, and the engine required frequent downshifting for passing maneuvers or climbing hills. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and everyday usability rather than outright speed. Compared to the optional 3.5-liter inline-five engine, the 2.8L felt noticeably less powerful, but it offered a smoother and more refined driving experience. The four-wheel drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and on unpaved surfaces, making it a practical choice for those living in areas with challenging road conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.8-liter Canyon Crew Cab typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. The interior featured cloth upholstery and a relatively basic dashboard layout. Optional extras included a premium sound system, cruise control, and alloy wheels. The Crew Cab configuration offered significantly more rear seat legroom than the standard cab models, making it a more comfortable option for passengers. The trim level generally sat as the base offering for the Crew Cab configuration, making it the most affordable way to get into a four-door Canyon.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon’s chassis consisted of a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup offered a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system featured ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The relatively modest weight of the 2.8L-equipped Canyon, compared to the V6 models, contributed to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Canyon for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, particularly in the Crew Cab configuration. However, the 2.8-liter engine was often criticized for its lack of power, especially when compared to the available 3.5-liter engine. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. The 2.8L version was often seen as a value-oriented option, appealing to buyers who prioritized affordability and practicality over performance. Compared to the Chevrolet Colorado, which shared the same platform and powertrains, the Canyon offered a slightly more upscale interior and exterior styling.
Legacy
The GMC Canyon Crew Cab 2.8L 4WD, while not the most powerful or fastest version of the truck, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The LK5 Vortec engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered to be a robust and long-lasting powerplant. In the used car market, these Canyons are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and capable mid-size pickup truck. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, and parts availability remains good. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the cooling system and the automatic transmission (if equipped), and ensure that regular maintenance has been performed.
