The GMC Canyon II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2021, 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 Long Box configuration, paired with the 2.8-liter Duramax turbocharged diesel engine producing 181 horsepower, and a six-speed automatic transmission with four-wheel drive, occupied a key position in the Canyon lineup, targeting buyers seeking a balance of capability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable daily driving. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2021 through 2022.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon II (facelift 2021) Crew cab Long box |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8 Duramax TD (181 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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 2000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LWN |
| Engine displacement | 2776 cm3 (169.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2172 kg (4788.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79.5 l (21 US gal | 17.49 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 20.4 l (5.39 US gal | 4.49 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3424 kg (7548.63 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 track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 206 mm (8.11 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front engaged via clutch. |
| 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 | 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 2.8-liter (2776 cc) Duramax turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the engine code LWN. This engine is an inline-four cylinder configuration, utilizing a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The Duramax engine features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The valvetrain is a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall engine performance. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this engine, chosen for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. This transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input.
Driving Characteristics
The 181 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.8-liter Duramax, when paired with the six-speed automatic, provided a capable and relatively refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, the Canyon offered ample low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but noticeably slower than the gasoline-powered V6 options. The automatic transmission was programmed for smooth shifts and prioritized fuel economy over aggressive downshifting. The gear ratios were optimized for highway cruising, with a relatively tall final drive ratio. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered greater convenience but slightly reduced responsiveness. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.8 Duramax diesel with automatic transmission was typically offered in mid-range trim levels, such as the SLE and AT4. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. The AT4 trim added off-road-focused features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a more aggressive suspension tune. Optional extras included a premium audio system, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and advanced safety features like forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust 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. Braking duties were 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) was standard. The chassis was tuned to balance ride comfort with handling stability, although it wasn’t as refined as some unibody crossovers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.8-liter Duramax diesel Canyon received generally positive reviews for its fuel efficiency and towing capability. Critics praised the engine’s torque output and the smooth operation of the automatic transmission. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s relatively low horsepower compared to competitors and the somewhat basic interior appointments. Compared to the gasoline V6 options, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, particularly for those who frequently tow or haul heavy loads. The diesel also commanded a higher price premium. Against competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Canyon diesel offered a compelling combination of features and value.
Legacy
The 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and AdBlue refills. The Hydra-Matic automatic transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, these Canyon diesels hold their value reasonably well, particularly those that have been well-maintained and have a documented service history. They remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and fuel-efficient mid-size pickup truck.
