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 a significant refresh to its exterior styling and interior technology. The Crew Cab configuration, paired with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 308 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission, occupied a prominent position in the Canyon lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and modern 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) 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) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 1904 kg (4197.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2630 kg (5798.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 726 kg (1600.56 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 | 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) | 211 mm (8.31 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Canyon variant is the 3.6-liter LFX V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve (DOHC) powerplant featuring direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (CVVT). The LFX is known for its relatively smooth operation and respectable power output. The direct injection system optimizes combustion efficiency, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a General Motors design, provides a wide range of gear ratios, enhancing both acceleration and highway cruising. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels as standard, with four-wheel drive available as an option.
Driving Characteristics
The 308-horsepower V6 and eight-speed automatic combination delivers a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as quick as some of the more performance-oriented trucks in the segment, the Canyon offers ample power for everyday driving and towing. The eight-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing good acceleration. Compared to the available 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the V6 offers significantly more power and torque, making it a better choice for those who frequently tow or haul heavy loads. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual transmission. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and performance, prioritizing smooth cruising over outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab 3.6L Automatic Canyon typically came well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features generally included 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 SLT and AT4, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a trailering package, off-road suspension, and a sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle with leaf springs. This setup is designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by 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. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021-2022 GMC Canyon with the 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, user-friendly infotainment system, and capable powertrain. However, some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t as premium as those found in some competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to the four-cylinder Canyon, the V6 offered a significant performance advantage, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel efficiency. The V6 also positioned itself as a more compelling alternative to the diesel-powered Colorado/Canyon, offering similar torque figures with a simpler and potentially more reliable powertrain.
Legacy
The LFX 3.6L V6 engine and Hydra-Matic 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While some owners have reported minor issues with the fuel system or transmission, these are generally not widespread. The Canyon II, particularly the facelifted models, have held their value reasonably well in the used car market. The combination of capability, comfort, and modern features makes it a popular choice for buyers looking for a mid-size pickup truck. As of today, these trucks continue to be a common sight on used car lots, offering a practical and dependable transportation option.
