The GMC Canyon I Extended Cab, specifically equipped with the 3.7-liter V5 engine and a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, was a mid-size pickup truck produced from 2007 to 2012. Positioned as a versatile option within the Canyon lineup, this configuration aimed to provide a balance between capability and affordability, appealing to buyers seeking a practical truck for both work and personal use. It was part of the first generation of the Canyon (2004-2012), which shared a platform with the Chevrolet Colorado. This variant occupied a middle ground in the Canyon range, slotting below the more powerful 5.3L V8 option and above the base 2.9L inline-four engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon I Extended Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 (242 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| 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 kg/Hp, 143.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.3 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, Longitudinal |
| 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 | 1688 kg (3721.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2268 kg (5000.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 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 | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Height | 1649 mm (64.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185.7 mm (7.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.5 m (44.29 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 205/75 R15; 225/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 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 featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for improved efficiency and responsiveness. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 242 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 328 Nm (241.92 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this engine. This transmission, known for its durability, provided smooth shifts but lacked the efficiency of more modern transmissions with additional gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7L automatic Canyon offered adequate performance for everyday driving and light-duty hauling. Acceleration was reasonable, though not particularly brisk, with the four-speed automatic transmission impacting overall responsiveness. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel economy and towing capability. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 3.7L, the automatic offered greater convenience but slightly reduced fuel efficiency and a less engaging driving experience. The V8-equipped Canyons provided significantly more power and quicker acceleration, while the 2.9L inline-four offered better fuel economy but lacked the 3.7L’s overall capability. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional truck feel, but could be a disadvantage in slippery conditions without the availability of four-wheel drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Extended Cab configuration offered additional rear seating, making it suitable for small families or crews. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE and SLT, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior materials, a premium sound system, and cruise control. Optional extras included a towing package, off-road suspension, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The 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, a traditional setup for pickup trucks. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assist. The rear leaf spring suspension, while capable, could result in a somewhat firm ride, especially when unladen.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Canyon, and specifically the 3.7L automatic variant, received generally positive reviews for its versatility and value. Critics praised its comfortable ride and user-friendly interior. However, some noted the engine’s lack of refinement compared to some competitors and the four-speed automatic transmission felt dated. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the Chevrolet Colorado (its mechanically identical twin), the Canyon often carried a slightly higher price tag, reflecting GMC’s positioning as a more premium brand. The Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma were key competitors, offering different strengths in terms of performance, reliability, and off-road capability.
Legacy
The 3.7L inline-five engine, while not a widespread powerplant, proved to be reasonably reliable in the Canyon. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. The Hydra-Matic 4L60-E transmission, when properly maintained, also demonstrated good durability. Today, used GMC Canyon I models with the 3.7L engine are relatively affordable and can be a good option for buyers seeking a practical and capable pickup truck. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s potential for oil leaks and the transmission’s age. The Canyon I helped establish GMC as a viable competitor in the mid-size pickup truck segment, paving the way for the redesigned Canyon introduced in 2015.
