The GMC Canyon mid-size pickup is a close cousin to the Chevrolet Colorado, built on the same platform and sharing much in the way of mechanicals while remaining distinctive inside and out. Distinguished as the only premium pickup in the mid-size segment, the brand’s DNA is clearly evident with the Canyon appearing a smaller version of the GMC Sierra truck. Work-oriented base, SL, SLE, and SLT trim levels are available. Additional model choices offered this year include a new top-of-line Canyon Denali and availability of an All Terrain X package on the Canyon SLE.

Canyon Denali features a Denali-signature chrome grille, 20-inch ultra-bright machined aluminum wheels with painted accents, tubular chrome assist steps, and spray-on bed liner. Inside, an exclusive Jet Black interior features leather-appointments, heated and ventilated front seats, unique instrument panel and console trim, heated steering wheel, and Denali-logo sill plates and floor mats. Additional standard features include GMC IntelliLink with Navigation, an 8-inch color touchscreen, full-color driver information center, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, automatic climate control, Bose premium seven-speaker audio system, and remote start. Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning are also part of the package. The Canyon Denali is available only as a crew cab in 2WD and 4WD.

The All Terrain package offered on the SLE is the most off-road-capable of Canyon choices. The ‘X’ adds Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac P255/65R17 all-terrain tires on unique aluminum wheels and all-weather floor liners to the already-available All Terrain package. There is also a body-color grille surround and matching rear step bumper, Hill Descent Control, and an off-road suspension.

Canyon benefits from a new 3.6-liter V-6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This new engine, which is shared among other GM models including Cadillac crossovers and the Chevrolet Camaro, replaces the previous-generation 3.6-liter LFX V-6. The new V-6 is rated at 308 horsepower with 275 lb-ft torque, improving these specs by just a slight margin over the earlier engine. The new powerplant is more efficient, though, due to the use of GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation and refinements to the direct injection system.

Two additional powertrain choices are carried over from the previous model year. These include a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter gasoline inline-four and the notable 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel four-cylinder that was introduced last year. The four-cylinder engine is the only version available with a manual gearbox, and only on the SL model with rear-wheel drive. Canyon nets a welcome 25 to 30 highway mpg depending on engine choice, with the Duramax diesel the most efficient.

Extended Cab long-box Canyons start at $21,880 with two-wheel drive. Base cost moves upward for four-wheel drive, Crew Cab models, and optional equipment. The Canyon Denali is $39,995 to $43,760 depending on box length and two- or four-wheel drive choices.