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 (shared with the Chevrolet Colorado), received updated styling and technology. The Crew 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 prominent position in the Canyon lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and features. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2021 through 2022.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon II (facelift 2021) Crew 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 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 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 | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.8 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 | 2007 kg (4424.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2721 kg (5998.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 714 kg (1574.1 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 | 1794 mm (70.63 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) | 208 mm (8.19 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 | 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 Crew Cab with the 3.6L V6 and four-wheel drive represented a mid-range offering within the Canyon lineup. Positioned above the base 2.5L four-cylinder models, it catered to buyers seeking increased towing capacity and overall performance without stepping up to the more expensive diesel variants. The facelift brought a more aggressive front fascia, updated interior materials, and enhanced technology features, aiming to improve the Canyon’s appeal in a competitive mid-size truck segment. This version of the Canyon was primarily sold in the North American market, competing with trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Frontier.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Canyon variant lies the GM LFX 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block. It utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The valvetrain employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across a wider RPM range. The engine produces 308 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm.
The engine is mated to an eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission offers smooth and precise shifting, contributing to both fuel efficiency and drivability. The four-wheel-drive system is part-time, allowing the driver to select between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes depending on road conditions. The transfer case utilizes an electronically controlled clutch to engage the front axle when needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 308-hp V6 and eight-speed automatic combination in the Canyon provides adequate power for everyday driving and towing. While not as quick as some of its competitors, the Canyon offers a smooth and refined driving experience. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. Compared to the base 2.5L engine, the V6 offers significantly more power and torque, making it better suited for hauling and towing. However, it doesn’t deliver the same low-end grunt as the available Duramax diesel engine. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making the Canyon a capable off-road vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Canyon Crew Cab 3.6L 4WD Automatic was available in several trim levels, including SLE and AT4. The SLE trim typically included standard features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. The AT4 trim added off-road-focused features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a more aggressive suspension tuning. Interior upholstery varied depending on the trim level, ranging from cloth to leather. Optional extras included a premium Bose audio system, a navigation system, and a trailering package.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon 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 balances ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, with the front discs measuring 310x27mm and the rear discs measuring 324x18mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Canyon’s comfortable ride and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. The 3.6L V6 engine was considered adequate for most tasks, but some felt it lacked the refinement of the diesel engine. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with EPA estimates of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Compared to the diesel Canyon, the V6 offered lower fuel economy but a lower initial purchase price. The V6 also provided a quieter and smoother driving experience than the diesel.
Legacy
The 2021-2022 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 4WD Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The LFX V6 engine is known for its durability, and the eight-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. On the used car market, these Canyons hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. The combination of capability, comfort, and features makes them a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile mid-size pickup truck. While newer Canyon models have been released, this generation remains a viable option for those looking for a dependable and affordable truck.
