The GMC Canyon II Crew Cab Long Box, specifically equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and paired with an 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 variants. 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 Long box |
| 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 | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 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, 160.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.6 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 | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2631 kg (5800.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 726 kg (1600.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1414 l (49.93 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 | 5705 mm (224.61 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1793 mm (70.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3569 mm (140.51 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) | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.2° |
| Departure angle | 22.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.6° |
| 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 mid-size truck and SUV offerings, known for its relatively smooth operation and adequate power delivery. The engine’s aluminum cylinder heads and cast iron block contribute to a balance of weight and durability. The 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque are generated at 6800 and 4000 rpm respectively. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The automatic transmission used is a six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80, a widely used and generally reliable unit. This transmission is electronically controlled and offers a relatively smooth shifting experience, though it isn’t as sporty or responsive as some newer transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Canyon II Crew Cab Long Box provided a competent, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and highway merging, but it wasn’t a particularly quick truck. The automatic transmission was tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, sometimes at the expense of immediate responsiveness. Compared to the available 2.5-liter four-cylinder, the V6 offered significantly more power and towing capacity. However, it lacked the low-end torque and fuel economy of the Duramax diesel option. The 6L80 transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for cruising and towing, rather than aggressive acceleration. In real-world conditions, the truck felt most comfortable at highway speeds, where the engine could operate efficiently and quietly.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Canyon II Crew Cab Long Box with the 3.6L V6 automatic typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a trailering package, and various appearance upgrades. The interior generally featured durable materials and a functional layout, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for hauling and towing. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over refined ride quality. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The front brakes measured 310x27mm, while the rear brakes were slightly smaller at 324x18mm. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing reasonable steering feel and maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Canyon II, and specifically the 3.6L V6 automatic variant, was generally well-received by critics as a capable and comfortable mid-size pickup truck. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of some competitors, such as the Toyota Tacoma. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to the four-cylinder Canyon, the V6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel efficiency. The Duramax diesel option provided superior towing capacity and fuel economy, but came with a higher price tag. The Canyon aimed to appeal to buyers who wanted a versatile and capable truck without the bulk and expense of a full-size pickup.
Legacy
The 3.6L LFX V6 engine and 6L80 transmission pairing proved to be relatively reliable in the Canyon II. While not without its minor issues (such as occasional oil consumption or transmission shudder), the powertrain generally held up well over time with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these Canyons represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable mid-size truck. The LFX engine is known for its longevity, and parts availability remains good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for oil consumption and should have the transmission inspected for any signs of issues.
