The GMC Canyon II Crew Cab, specifically the variant equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was a mid-size pickup truck sold primarily in North America from 2015 to 2016. It represented GMC’s entry into the increasingly popular mid-size truck segment, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and technology. This configuration occupied a middle ground in the Canyon II lineup, positioned above the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder models and below the available Duramax diesel option. It was part of the second generation of the Canyon, sharing a platform with the Chevrolet Colorado.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon II Crew cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (305 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 162.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 305 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 365 Nm @ 4000 rpm (269.21 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LFX |
| Engine displacement | 3564 cm3 (217.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.6 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.4 l (13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1882 kg (4149.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2631 kg (5800.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 749 kg (1651.26 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1169 l (41.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79.5 l (21 US gal | 17.49 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 5395 mm (212.4 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3258 mm (128.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 214 mm (8.43 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.4° |
| Departure angle | 22.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22.0° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 310×27 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 324×18 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16; 255/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Canyon variant is the 3.6-liter LFX V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT). The LFX engine was a staple in GM’s lineup, known for its relatively smooth operation and adequate power delivery. The direct injection system contributes to improved fuel efficiency and increased power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this engine configuration. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and reliability, although it isn’t particularly sporty in its tuning. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both on-road cruising and moderate towing capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The 305-horsepower V6 and six-speed automatic combination provided a balanced driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and highway merging, though not particularly brisk. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. Compared to the base four-cylinder engine, the V6 offered a significant improvement in power and responsiveness. However, it didn’t match the low-end torque of the available Duramax diesel engine. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional truck feel, and the Canyon II handled reasonably well for a mid-size pickup, though it wasn’t designed for sporty handling. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy and usability rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 automatic Canyon II was typically offered in SLE and SLT trim levels. The SLE trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and cloth upholstery. The SLT trim added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, and additional chrome exterior trim. Optional extras included a trailering package, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the segment, and the cabin was relatively quiet and comfortable.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II 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 a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration was chosen for its load-carrying capacity and durability. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS included as standard equipment. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but didn’t offer particularly strong stopping power. The rear leaf springs contributed to a somewhat firm ride quality, especially when the truck was unladen.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Canyon II for its comfortable ride, well-appointed interior, and capable V6 engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times. Compared to the four-cylinder models, the V6 offered a significant improvement in performance, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy. The Duramax diesel option provided superior towing capacity and fuel efficiency, but came at a higher price point. The Canyon II competed primarily with the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier in the mid-size truck segment.
Legacy
The 3.6L V6 engine in the Canyon II has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some owners have reported minor issues with the automatic transmission, these are not widespread. The LFX engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. On the used car market, Canyon II models with the V6 engine and automatic transmission generally hold their value well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. The Canyon II helped to re-establish GMC as a player in the mid-size truck segment, and paved the way for the redesigned Canyon that debuted in 2023.
