The GMC Canyon II, specifically the facelifted version introduced for the 2021 model year, represents GMC’s mid-size pickup truck offering in the North American market. This iteration of the Canyon, built on the GMT-315 platform, aimed to provide a blend of capability, refinement, and technology. The Extended Cab configuration, paired with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 308 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission with four-wheel drive, occupied a significant position within the Canyon lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and powerful truck without the full size of the Sierra. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2021 through 2022.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon II (facelift 2021) Extended cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (308 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 308 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 4000 rpm (275.11 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LGZ |
| 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 | 10.6 l (11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2676 kg (5899.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 706 kg (1556.46 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79.5 l (21 US gal | 17.49 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 5395 mm (212.4 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1785 mm (70.28 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) | 211 mm (8.31 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 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 | 255/65 R17; 265/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Introduction
The 2021-2022 GMC Canyon II Extended Cab 3.6L V6 4WD Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation Canyon. Introduced as a more refined and capable offering in the competitive mid-size truck segment, it aimed to appeal to buyers needing a versatile vehicle for both work and recreational purposes. The Extended Cab body style provided a compromise between the full-size crew cab and the more utilitarian regular cab, offering limited rear seating and a shorter bed length. This particular configuration, with the 308-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic, was positioned as a strong all-around performer, balancing power, efficiency, and towing capacity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Canyon variant lies the LGZ 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s global V6 family, known for its durability and relatively smooth operation. It features direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (CVVT), and a cast aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners. The direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power output. The eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a staple in GM vehicles, provides smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is designed to maximize fuel economy while providing ample torque for towing and hauling. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to provide a balance between acceleration and cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 308-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic combination delivers a respectable driving experience. While not as quick as some of the turbocharged competitors, the Canyon offers ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. Compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the V6 offers a significant increase in power and torque, making it more suitable for towing and hauling heavier loads. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the V6 provides a smoother, quieter ride, but lacks the diesel’s superior torque and fuel economy. The four-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions and off-road situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Canyon II Extended Cab 3.6L V6 4WD Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and basic safety features like ABS and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE and SLT, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a trailering package, off-road suspension, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration is designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger rotors on the rear axle. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing stability and control. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021-2022 GMC Canyon II with the 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its comfortable ride, capable powertrain, and user-friendly technology. However, some noted that its interior materials and design were beginning to show their age compared to newer competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Canyon offered a more refined ride and a more powerful base engine, but lacked the Tacoma’s reputation for reliability and the Ranger’s more modern interior.
Legacy
The LGZ 3.6L V6 engine and Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains in various GM vehicles. While not without their occasional issues, these components generally offer good longevity with proper maintenance. In the used car market, the 2021-2022 GMC Canyon II Extended Cab 3.6L V6 4WD Automatic represents a solid value proposition for buyers seeking a capable and well-equipped mid-size truck. Its blend of power, comfort, and technology continues to make it a competitive option in its class.
