GMC Canyon Model Years and History

The GMC Canyon is a carryover for 2026 with a couple of new options and packages. The model re-introduces the AT4X as a trim instead of a package, as well as a nightfall essentials package available on the AT4 which adds all-terrain tires and blacked out emblems. Other new options include a new coastal dune paint colour, new wheel options, new door sill plates option, an optional AT4X kit, and a black badging package.

The GMC Canyon drops the AT4X trim for 2025 but otherwise carries over with minimal changes.

After a redesign last year, the GMC Canyon carries over with minimal changes.

The GMC Canyon is fully redesigned for 2023.

The GMC Canyon carries over with minimal changes for 2022.

The biggest news for 2021 is the addition of two new trim models to the lineup, the off-road oriented AT4 and the luxurious Denali trim. The Denali trim has gradually spread throughout the GMC lineup as more and more buyers want a dose of luxury to go with their GMC vehicles. In addition, the new AT4 trim level caters to those that want just a bit more capability and tough off-road looks from their GMC truck.

For 2020, GMC has updated the Canyon's available lineup options, starting with the elimination of the availability of the rear-wheel-drive long-box model, all-wheel-drive extended-cab and All Terrain trims are all no longer available. The six-speed-manual transmission and auxiliary audio input are also discontinued this year. However, a bright spot is the new locking rear tailgate and tire fill alert system that add some convenience and capability.

For 2019, GMC has updated the Canyon's available technology, starting with the infotainment system. The new system includes available navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as well as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. In addition, the rearview camera has been replaced with a upgraded HD unit. Park-assist is also available. Other changes to the vehicle include a new wheel design and 6-way power adjustable driver's seats on many of the trim levels.

The GMC Canyon returns for 2018 with several minor updates. All Canyon models now come equipped with a windshield washer fluid sensor and available Jet black leather seats with Cobalt Red stitching.

The GMC Canyon returns for 2017 with several new options and features. The biggest news under the skin, is a new 8-speed automatic transmission that comes standard with the 3.6L V6 engine. This transmission promises to improve both performance and fuel economy. A Teen Driver feature is also new and allows parents to keep an eye on their children, monitoring top speed and the deployment of any active safety features. A new Terrain X package is available this year which includes beefy all-terrain tires, off-road suspension and a Hill Descent Control system, while a new Nightfall Edition comes with a body colored grill, polished exhaust tips, 18-inch wheels and a spray-on bedliner.

Following its debut last year, the GMC Canyon has changed little for 2016, though a new 2.8L 4-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine is available. Optioning a Canyon with this engine will also add an integrated trailer brake controller, as well as an exhaust brake.

The GMC Canyon is all new for 2015. It slots in below the GMC Sierra and Sierra HD as the most compact truck in the GMC lineup. Small enough to be maneuverable in the city, the Canyon is capable of towing up to 7,000 lbs. when properly equipped.

For 2012, the SLE Canyon loses its manual transmission; otherwise the Canyon is basically unchanged.

For 2011, the GMC Canyon features OnStar 9.0 with a 6-month Directions and Connections plan. Bluetooth hands-free connectivity is now standard and the front headrests have been redesigned. Aqua Blue Metallic is a new exterior color and a new chrome package includes a chrome fuel door and exhaust tip.

For 2010, side-curtain airbags are now standard on all trims, and the top-line 5.3L V8 engine is now Flex fuel. Three new exterior colors are offered: Merlot Jewel Metallic, Gray Green Metallic and Pure Silver Metallic.

For the first time, a V8 is available on Canyon extended cab and crew cab models, while fuel-system improvements for the in-line 4- and 5-cylinder engines have improved fuel economy. The Canyon's brake system has been improved to match, and electronic stability control is now standard on all trims. A revised ZQ8 sport suspension is available with the V8; it offers a "slammed" appearance, includes low-profile sport tires and has been lowered by about an inch. The Z71 Off-Road package has also been reconfigured to have a higher stance, with larger wheels and tires for better maneuverability off-road. Even base Work Truck models feature larger 16-inch wheels, with new 17- and 18-inch designs available. Body-side trim has been reconfigured through the model line, and two new colors--Navy Blue and Aqua Blue Metallic--join the palette.

For 2008, GMC has added three new colors to the palette--Red Orange Metallic, Carbon Black Metallic, and Dark Steel Gray Metallic--to update the Canyon's look. The optional Trailering Package is now factory-installed and has a greater towing capacity.

GMC increased the displacement and power of the Canyon's engine lineup for 2007. Instead of choosing between a 2.7L or a 3.5L powerplant, a 2.9L 185-horsepower four-cylinder or a 242-horsepower, 3.7L in-line five are available. In addition, a tire pressure monitor is now standard, and three new colors--Sport Blue, Midnight Blue Metallic, and Sonoma Red Metallic--update the Canyon's look. Warranty coverage is increased for 2007, with a new five-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty that's fully transferable and includes roadside assistance for the full period.