The GMC Canyon I Crew Cab, specifically the variant equipped with the 3.7-liter V5 engine producing 242 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, was a mid-size pickup truck produced from 2007 to 2012. It represented GMC’s entry into the increasingly popular mid-size truck segment, offering a more manageable size compared to full-size offerings like the Sierra while still providing respectable capability. This particular configuration occupied a middle ground in the Canyon lineup, offering a balance between affordability and performance, positioned above the base 2.9L four-cylinder models and below the more powerful 5.3L V8 options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon I Crew cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 (242 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 242 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 328 Nm @ 2800 rpm (241.92 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LLR |
| Engine displacement | 3654 cm3 (222.98 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1886 kg (4157.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2404 kg (5299.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 518 kg (1141.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1245 l (43.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74.2 l (19.6 US gal | 16.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 5260 mm (207.09 in.) |
| Width | 1742 mm (68.58 in.) |
| Height | 1723 mm (67.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 195.3 mm (7.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.5 m (44.29 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| 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 | 225/70 R15; 235/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Canyon variant is the 3.7-liter (3654 cc) inline five-cylinder engine, designated the LLR. This engine, a relatively uncommon configuration, was designed to offer a compromise between the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder and the power of a V6. It utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 242 horsepower output at 5600 rpm and 328 Nm (241.92 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm were respectable for its time, though not class-leading. The engine is transversely mounted, driving all four wheels through a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission, while reliable, is considered somewhat dated by modern standards, lacking the efficiency and smoothness of newer transmissions with more gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7L automatic Canyon offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing smooth shifts, resulted in wider gear ratios compared to trucks with five or six-speed automatics. This meant the engine often operated at higher RPMs during highway cruising, potentially impacting fuel economy. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but passing maneuvers required planning. Compared to the 2.9L four-cylinder Canyon, the 3.7L offered significantly more power and torque, making it more capable of hauling and towing. However, it lacked the outright performance of the optional 5.3L V8. The four-wheel drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and on unpaved surfaces, making it a versatile vehicle for a variety of conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab configuration, regardless of engine, typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. The 3.7L variant often came with upgraded cloth upholstery compared to the base models. Optional extras included a premium audio system, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a navigation system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the year, but generally included base, SLE, and SLT models. The SLE trim added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and a better audio system, while the SLT offered the most luxurious appointments, including leather seats and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The GMC Canyon I utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup prioritized load-carrying capacity over refined handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The relatively heavy weight of the vehicle, combined with the rear drum brakes, meant that braking performance was adequate but not exceptional. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.7L automatic Canyon received mixed reviews. Critics praised its comfortable ride and spacious interior, particularly in the Crew Cab configuration. However, the engine was often criticized for being underpowered, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. The four-speed automatic transmission was also seen as a weakness, lacking the refinement and efficiency of newer transmissions. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, the Canyon offered a more comfortable ride but lacked the same level of off-road capability and long-term reliability reputation. Fuel economy was average for the class, falling in line with other mid-size pickups of the era.
Legacy
The 3.7L engine, while not known for being a particularly groundbreaking design, proved to be reasonably reliable in the Canyon. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures, but major engine failures were relatively rare. The Hydra-Matic transmission, while dated, was also generally reliable with proper maintenance. Today, the 3.7L Canyon can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It represents a practical and versatile option for those seeking a mid-size pickup truck with a comfortable ride and decent capability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limitations and the transmission’s age, and factor in potential maintenance costs.
