The GMC Canyon II Crew Cab Long Box, specifically equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 308 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s mid-size pickup truck offerings. Produced for the 2015 and 2016 model years, this variant occupied a prominent position within the Canyon II lineup, targeting buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and modern features. It was part of the second generation of the Canyon, which was relaunched after a hiatus, sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Colorado.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon II Crew cab Long box |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (308 Hp) 4WD 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 | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – 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 | 6.6 kg/Hp, 150.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.4 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 | 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 | 10.6 l (11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2045 kg (4508.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 767 kg (1690.95 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%) | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 5705 mm (224.61 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1791 mm (70.51 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) | 206 mm (8.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | 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
At the heart of this Canyon variant lies the 3.6-liter LFX V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) engine featuring direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (CVVT). The direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power output. The LFX engine is known for its relatively smooth operation and respectable power delivery. The eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was a key component, offering a wide range of gear ratios to optimize both fuel economy and performance. This transmission allowed the engine to operate within its optimal power band more frequently, enhancing responsiveness. The 4WD system is a part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 308-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic combination provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base four-cylinder engine option. While not a high-performance truck, the Canyon II with this powertrain offered ample power for everyday driving, towing, and hauling. The eight-speed transmission helped to keep the engine in its sweet spot, providing smooth and relatively quick shifts. The 4WD system enhanced traction in challenging conditions, making it suitable for off-road use and inclement weather. However, the Canyon’s ride quality, while improved over previous generations, could still feel somewhat firm, especially when unladen. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, prioritizing usability over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Box configuration offered a spacious interior with seating for five passengers. Standard features typically included 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 front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a trailering package, and various appearance upgrades. The interior design was functional and relatively modern, though it didn’t quite match the refinement of some competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over sophisticated handling. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The braking performance was adequate for the truck’s weight and intended use, but it wasn’t particularly sporty. The standard tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, ranging from 265/70R16 to 265/60R18.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2015-2016 GMC Canyon II with the 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Compared to the base four-cylinder engine, the V6 offered a significant improvement in performance. However, some reviewers noted that the Canyon’s fuel economy wasn’t class-leading, and its interior materials weren’t as premium as those found in some competitors, such as the Toyota Tacoma. The Canyon offered a compelling alternative to the Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, particularly for buyers seeking a more refined and comfortable mid-size pickup.
Legacy
The LFX 3.6L V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission proved to be a reliable combination in the Canyon II. While some minor issues have been reported, such as oil consumption in certain engines, the powertrain is generally considered durable and long-lasting. On the used car market, these Canyon models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. The Canyon II helped to re-establish GMC as a player in the mid-size pickup truck segment, and its success paved the way for future generations of the Canyon.
