Category Archives: canyon

I Drove the 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV: Here’s My Brutally Honest Review

June 10, 20252025, Buick, canyon, GMC, Off-Road Vehicles, Reviews, Truckadmin

Road to the 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV

The GMC Canyon has been the “professional grade” player in the mid-size truck world since its introduction in 2004, much like the Sierra’s younger brother who wears a tie to a barbecue. After its first run, it took a hiatus before coming back in the mid-2010s. But it was the major refresh for the 2023 model year that woke everyone up. It was like the Canyon hit the gym, got a new wardrobe, and suddenly had a ton of confidence. It needed it, too, because it’s a tough segment with heavy hitters from Ford with its Ranger and Toyota with the Tacoma, not to mention its less-fancy cousin, the Chevy Colorado. With this latest generation, though, GMC is carving its path and cornering the off-road-focused premium trail truck segment with the AT4X edition.

The AEV treatment

So, what transforms a standard Canyon into the AT4X AEV Edition? The magic begins with a 3-inch factory lift on the standard AT4X, which AEV then raises an additional 1.5 inches for a total of 4.5 inches, giving it a towering 12.2 inches of ground clearance.

The suspension is handled by sophisticated Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers. This is the same advanced technology found in top-tier race cars and supercars, such as the Ford GT and Camaro ZL1 1LE. Instead of using traditional, metal discs (shims) to control fluid, DSSV dampers use incredibly precise, spring-loaded spool valves. This enables them to have different damping characteristics for various situations, which translates to a surprisingly comfortable and controlled ride on the highway. But when you’re off-road and the suspension compresses hard after a big hit, a separate valve engages to provide extreme damping force, preventing you from bottoming out harshly. It’s this dual personality that makes them so special.

In terms of protection, American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) offers up five steel skid plates protecting everything from the radiator to the rear differential. AEV also supplies heavy-duty stamped steel bumpers – the front is winch-capable, and the rear has massive cast recovery points. All of this hardware looks tough, but what I love is the purposeful feel it gives the truck. When you combine the purposeful AEV armor with those massive 35-inch Goodyear tires and motorsport-grade suspension, you end up with a package that doesn’t just look the part, but is a purpose-built expedition vehicle, ready to tackle just about anything you can throw at it right from the factory floor.

2025 GMC Canyon AT4X vs. AT4X AEV Edition – Key Off-Road & Capability Specifications
Feature	2025 GMC Canyon AT4X	2025 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition
Engine	2.7L TurboMax I4	2.7L TurboMax I4
Horsepower	310 hp @ 5600 rpm	310 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque	430 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm	430 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic
Drivetrain	4WD with 2-speed transfer case, F/R e-lockers	4WD with 2-speed transfer case, F/R e-lockers
Factory Lift	3 inches	4.5 inches (1.5″ over AT4X)
Ground Clearance	10.7 inches	12.2 inches
Approach Angle	~37.0 degrees	38.2 degrees
Departure Angle	~25.0 degrees	26.0 degrees
Breakover Angle	~24.5 degrees	26.9 degrees
Tire Size & Type	33-inch MT (LT285/70R17C)	35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT (LT315/70R17)
Wheel Type	17-inch Aluminum	17-inch AEV Beadlock-Capable Salta
Key Skid Plate Material	Aluminum (front), Transfer Case Shield	AEV Hot-Stamped Boron Steel (5 plates)
Bumper Material	Standard	AEV Stamped Steel (front winch-capable)
Max Towing	6,000 lbs	5,500 lbs
Max Payload	1,250 – 1,260 lbs	1,250 lbs
EPA Fuel Economy (Comb.)	19 mpg (4WD)	16 mpg
Curb Weight (approx.)	~4,700-4,800 lbs (est. based on AT4 + AT4X gear)	5,200 – 5,278 lbs

Tackling the Rockies: My off-road experience

To really see what this truck was made of, I headed for the mountains outside Denver. Now, I have a medium amount of off-road experience, so I picked a trail to match: some steep climbs and tricky sections, but nothing too insane. Pulling up to the trailhead, I’ll admit, it looked pretty intense. The path quickly put us on the ridge of a mountain, about a thousand feet up with a serious drop just inches away.

Some of the rocky sections were no joke, but this is where the truck’s tech really shines. The various camera views were a lifesaver for placing tires perfectly. Combine that with the excellent throttle modulation that lets you apply just the right amount of power, and the whole experience became surprisingly stress-free. For peace of mind – and to avoid a flat with zero cell service – I aired down the big 35s to about 30 psi. It’s comforting to know there’s a full-size spare mounted in the bed if things really go south. But honestly? The truck performed like an absolute champ. It breezed through everything I threw at it. I never even had to engage the lockers. It just walked up every climb, making the whole adventure feel almost too easy.

The Canyon AT4X AEV offers a solid powertrain with some room for improvement

Under the hood of every 2025 Canyon, from the base model to the AT4X, you’ll find the same 2.7L TurboMax high-output four-cylinder. On paper, the numbers are respectable: 310 horsepower and a stout 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic. However, after driving it at altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet, where the thin air robs an engine of about 10-15% of its power, I couldn’t help but wish for a little more. To be clear, it never feels like a slouch, but for a truck that looks like it could eat rocks for breakfast and costs $70k, an extra 30 horsepower and 20 lb-ft of torque would be welcome to make it feel more substantial on the throttle.

Off-road, however, that powertrain is excellent with a great torque curve. The engine’s response when crawling up rocks is perfectly dialed in. The throttle is incredibly easy to modulate with precision, and the brake modulation is excellent too, allowing for smooth, controlled descents.

What was truly shocking was the cabin’s quietness. Even with those massive, 35-inch mud-terrain tires, the road noise on the highway was surprisingly minimal. You can have a conversation without yelling. For a truck on massive off-road tires with a 4.5-inch lift, the on-road dynamics are impressive. Body roll is present, but it’s well-controlled. While it won’t win “Best Driving On-Road Truck of the Year,” I walked away thoroughly impressed with its on-road manners, especially considering it’s designed to conquer the trail, not the asphalt.

Looks that kill

I absolutely love the exterior design of this truck. It’s bold, muscular, and looks tough from every angle. The placement of the front LED daytime running lights gives it a signature, aggressive face. And let’s be honest, those giant 35-inch tires do a lot of the heavy lifting in the attitude department. This is the kind of truck that makes you do a look-back every time you walk away from it in a parking lot, thinking, “Yeah, that’s my truck.”

The command center

Inside, the Canyon AT4X AEV has a surprisingly premium feel. GMC did a great job with the AT4X touches, like the sporty red seatbelts and the “AT4X” embroidery on the seat bolsters. The switchgear feels solid and durable, especially the chunky dial for selecting 4WD and drive modes – it’s great to see real, tactile buttons and switches for core functions.

The tech is solid, too, powered by Google Built-in. The touchscreen is responsive, and the digital gauge cluster is clear and configurable. No real complaints, but nothing mind-blowing either. What I do love, however, are the camera views. You get up to 10 of them, made explicitly for off-roading. It even has underbody cameras that show you exactly what’s underneath your front and rear tires, which is an absolute game-changer for navigating tricky obstacles without a spotter.

The price of admission

Let’s not beat around the bush, this is a pricy truck, but not out of line for the segment. The 2025 Canyon lineup starts around $43k (4WD), but the AT4X trim begins closer to $57,000. To get the complete AEV Edition treatment, you’re looking at a starting price of around $67,000. It’s a hefty price tag for a mid-size truck, no doubt. But in contrast, the Ranger Raptor starts at $56,070 and the Tacoma TRD PRO around $65,000.

Final thoughts

So, is it worth it? The 2025 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV is a super solid, competent, trail-ready truck. Yes, it’s pricey, but it genuinely gets everything right for its intended purpose. It’s a turnkey solution for someone who wants to tackle serious off-road adventures without spending months and thousands more on aftermarket parts. The fact that it’s all covered by a factory warranty is a huge plus. It’s one of the most complete and capable off-road packages you can buy, period.

2025 Ford Ranger vs Chevrolet Colorado: Battle of American Midsize Pickups

June 2, 20252025, Buick, canyon, Chevrolet, colorado, Ford, GMC, Off-Road Vehicles, ranger, Reviews, Truckadmin

Two of the segment’s top contenders

Americans love their trucks, but with the prices of many full-size pickups soaring over the last decade, many consumers are moving to midsize models. The Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado aren’t as tough as their larger siblings, but they offer a solid balance of price and proven capability. With American ingenuity behind them, American midsize pickups manage to hold the spotlight, even as the competition grows fiercer.

Both the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado see relatively minor changes, save for one, for the 2025 model year. The biggest news revolves around the Colorado, which sees a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine become the sole powertrain option. Otherwise, both midsize pickups get a few new paint colors and a standard feature shake-up.

Invigorating performance

While midsize trucks may have grown, they’re still smaller than full-size pickups. Don’t let size fool you, though. Both the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado pack in enough power to tow heavy loads and embrace the hours spent both on and off-road. Regardless of which model you pick, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes standard, but the Ranger has several options to choose from.

Most 2025 Ford Rangers come powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Upper-tier Ranger models are available with a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that generates 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Power from both engines flows through a 10-speed automatic transmission. At its peak, a properly equipped Ford Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs.

All 2025 Chevrolet Colorado models come powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Power comes channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission. As far as capability goes, the Colorado can tow a tad more than the Ford Ranger, up to 7,700 lbs. when properly equipped.

While the off-road version of the Chevrolet Colorado packs the same engine as its lower trim levels, the Ranger does no such thing. The off-road Ranger Raptor boasts a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Like in its lower trim levels, the Ranger Raptor comes equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Simplified designs

Midsize trucks don’t need to be complicated, and while some automakers try to slot in as many features as they can, Ford and Chevrolet have instead chosen to keep it simple. Both midsize pickups are available in a single configuration: a crew cab with a five-foot bed. You can’t opt for a single or extended cab configuration or a longer bed at all.

The Ford Ranger features a modernized cabin, thanks in part to its redesign for the 2024 model year. An eight-inch digital gauge display and a 10.1-inch touchscreen display come standard, as does Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. If touchscreen controls aren’t your style, the Ranger includes more physical controls. For a more luxurious layout, the Lariat trim, which starts at $43,880, includes leather-trimmed heated front and rear seats and a 10-speaker B&O sound system.

The Chevrolet Colorado is no slouch, though. Chevy’s midsize entry tops the Ranger with an 11.3-inch touchscreen display and an 11-inch digital gauge display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility also come standard. For a sportier aesthetic, the Z71, available from $43,900, pops in with a jet black interior and red accents. It rides on athletic 18-inch wheels and boasts LED lighting that completes the model’s intimidating stance. For a more capable off-roading experience, the ZR2 is the ideal pick from the Colorado range. That trim level includes a three-inch lift with a high-performance suspension, an off-road performance display, and much more.

Yes, the GMC Canyon exists

While the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado are bona fide American contenders in the midsize pickup segment, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the GMC Canyon. Sister to the Colorado, the GMC Canyon shares many of the same amenities, including the 11.3-inch touchscreen display and powertrain. It can also tow up to 7,700 lbs., but the Canyon includes several important features that the Colorado lacks.

Available from $38,400, the GMC Canyon features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Heated exterior mirrors make it onto the spec sheet as well, as does Blind Zone Steering Assist with Trailering. The cargo bed makes organizing gear a breeze with eight tie-downs and an optional half-gate position. Meanwhile, an optional integrated tailgate storage system, complete with a drain, makes the Canyon even more versatile.

Compared to the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado, the GMC Canyon offers more upscale amenities, as evidenced by its higher price tag. If you’re interested in merging the niceties of an upscale car or crossover with the capability of a midsize truck, then it’s hard to go wrong with a Canyon. If you don’t need all the bells and whistles, however, both the Ranger and Colorado make for a more attractive pickup.

Final thoughts

The midsize pickup segment features several fantastic contenders, including the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado. Designed to offer capability comparable to the lower end of their full-size siblings, the Ranger and Colorado make for fantastic weekend warriors. If you need a daily driver, keep in mind that the Ranger earns better fuel economy. The Chevrolet Colorado proves to be a touch easier on your wallet, though, while the GMC Canyon carries itself with more splendor. When it comes to midsize pickups, it’s hard to go wrong with the innovation and ingenuity of the American spirit.

Shopping for a 2025 Chevrolet Colorado? Here’s What Experts Say You Should Look at Instead

May 12, 20252025, Buick, canyon, Car Buying, Chevrolet, colorado, Ford, GMC, Off-Road Vehicles, ranger, tacoma, Toyota, Truckadmin

The Chevrolet Colorado eyes versatility

Midsize trucks stand out as a popular choice among consumers looking for the ideal blend of practicality, performance, and comfort. Smaller than full-size trucks yet still plenty capable, midsize pickups offer impressive towing capacity, off-road capability, and some of the industry’s latest tech. The Chevrolet Colorado in particular puts versatility at the forefront with a model range tailored to the many needs of the modern driver.

The Chevrolet Colorado received a complete redesign back in 2023, so it comes as no surprise that the midsize pickup has only seen minor updates over the past few years. In its most recent iteration, several trims get a standard rear defroster, while the Advanced Trailering package comes standard on the Trail Boss and Z71 trims. The top ZR2 gets several upscale features, like a heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad, and ventilated front seats. Starting at $31,900, the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado is a solid offering in the midsize pickup segment.

Regardless of trim level, the Chevrolet Colorado comes stocked with a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, the Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs., the highest of any midsize pickup, and is rated for an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

Even the base Chevrolet Colorado WT comes well-equipped, with a standard 11.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The LT trim adds a few comfort and convenience features, like remote start and an EZ-lift & Lower tailgate with flexible storage. Both models come with standard rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available for an additional $3,300.

Interestingly, the Colorado’s lineup features three off-road trim levels: Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2. All three models feature a drive mode selector and a powerful turbo four under the hood, but it’s the Trail Boss that gets an off-road suspension with a two-inch lift and wider stance. The Z71 adds red recovery hooks and rides on glossy 18-inch aluminum wheels. Designed for the trails, the ZR2 features an off-road package with a three-inch lift, taller and wider stance, and a high-performance suspension.

Thanks to its redesign in 2023, the Chevrolet Colorado features a modernized interior, complete with plenty of tech. Chevy’s midsize entry isn’t the only pickup that offers versatility throughout its lineup, though. There are other trucks that might be a better buy, depending on your wants and needs.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger followed the Chevrolet Colorado’s lead with a complete redesign for the 2024 model year. Like its American competitor, the Ranger only sees minor changes for the 2025 model year, the most notable of which is a new Black Appearance package. The 2025 Ford Ranger starts at $33,080 and is available in three trim levels.

A 270-horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes standard in the base Ranger, but upper trims get a more powerful 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that’s good for 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. At its toughest, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs. The Ford Ranger is most efficient when equipped with the four-cylinder engine, which earns up to 23 mpg combined.

The base Ranger is fairly lackluster, with little more than basic amenities and 17-inch wheels. Stepping up to the Lariat model brings plenty of luxury, with two 12-inch digital displays and a premium B&O 10-speaker sound system. Leather-trimmed front bucket seats and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel put the Ranger Lariat a step above competitors.

The Ford Ranger Raptor is a different beast entirely, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that packs 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The off-road truck gets locking front and rear differentials and a stiffer suspension for when the going gets tough. Opting for the Ranger Raptor will run you $55,820, and maximum towing capacity drops to 5,510 lbs.

Toyota Tacoma

2024 was apparently the year of the redesigned pickup, with the Colorado a year early to the party. The Toyota Tacoma’s latest rendition brings a fresh style and the addition of front tow hooks to the spec sheet. The Tacoma is one of the few remaining vehicles to give drivers a choice between an eight-speed automatic and a six-speed manual transmission. The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is available from $31,590 and at its most efficient, is rated for an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

While its American competitors are only available in a single configuration, the Toyota Tacoma comes in multiple cab and bed configurations. The base model has two engine options, dependent on your choice of transmission. The automatic transmission brings the least power, up to 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission gets the more powerful powertrain, producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. All other trims get a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.

The base Tacoma rolls out with an eight-inch touchscreen display, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Upgrading to Tacoma models with TRD badging makes the midsize pickup more versatile. The TRD PreRunner gets a front suspension lift, while the TRD Sport gets a tuned suspension. The TRD Off-Road trim is built for the trails, with Bilstein monotube shocks ready to roll.

If you value comfort over capability, the Tacoma Limited brings plenty of luxury amenities that could put full-size trucks to shame. The midsize pickup rides on an adaptive variable suspension that results in a more comfortable ride. Features like a power open-and-close tailgate and power-extending running boards make truck ownership more convenient. Inside, the Limited trim gets a luxurious look with upscale materials, including walnut burl-wood accents.

GMC Canyon

The GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado are both midsize trucks offered by sister brands. The two trucks share the 310-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight speed automatic transmission, but the Canyon is a step up in terms of amenities. Available from $38,400, the 2025 GMC Canyon offers identical towing capacity to the Colorado, topping out at 7,700 lbs.

The base Canyon Elevation rolls out with a sweet spec sheet, including an 11.3-inch touchscreen display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. An off-road suspension with a two-inch lift and wide stance gives the Canyon a rather aggressive demeanor. Unfortunately, the Duramax diesel engine from the previous generation is still MIA.

The AT4 model is ready for rocky trails, with a standard off-road suspension package and standard four-wheel drive with an automatic locking rear differential. The EZ-lift & Lower tailgate from the Colorado and athletic 18-inch wheels are standard as well. Inside, the Canyon struts its stuff, with heated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The top-spec Denali trim is where the GMC Canyon takes a leap above its Chevy cousin. The luxury-esque model rides on 20-inch wheels with five-inch chrome assist steps. If diamond-cut dark grey wheels aren’t your style, 20-inch black aluminum wheels are optional. Comfort amenities include a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and power lumbar control.

Final thoughts

Midsize trucks are the smart choice for drivers who need the strength and practicality of a truck without the sheer bulk of a full-size model. While the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado offers a refined ride with a modernized interior and versatile range of models, there may be a truck better suited for your needs. Before you set your sights on a single model, give some of the Colorado’s rivals a test drive!

2025 GMC Canyon: 6 reasons to love it, 3 reasons to think twice

January 26, 20252025, Buick, canyon, GMC, gmc canyon, Reviewsadmin

The 2025 GMC Canyon is not only one of the most capable off-road pickup trucks in its class; it’s one of the most powerful as well. Unfortunately, to get that top trim off-road performance, you’ll have to shell out a ton of bread. Fortunately, even the base models are mighty capable.

Other than a cosmetic blackout package called the “Nightfall Edition,” the only exterior updates this year are a few new colors, namely Glacier Metallic, Desert Sun, and Rapids Metallic. The “ProGrade Trailering System” and the “Safety Plus Package” are also now standard on all Canyons.

Considering how new this generation is, we weren’t expecting that many changes, so this was a pleasant surprise for folks who want the base model Elevation trim. That being said, what are some of the Canyon’s best selling points, and what are some reasons that might lead you to shop elsewhere?

Optional goodies include underside cameras, AEV-built armor, and provisions for a winch.

GMC

Reason to love it #1: This is one handsome devil

This exterior design, which was introduced as the 2023 model, is bold and unique. Yes, the Chevrolet Colorado is its brother, but the Canyon has a unique nose, tail, and accessories. Even the base Elevation trim sits high and has a wide stance.

Despite its midsize status, the Canyon looks big and has a presence in the real world. I would go so far as to say that when it’s loaded up with AEV accessories, it’s one macho-looking hombre. Still, even the bare-bones WT trim is handsome and distinctive.

Only one engine, one transmission available – and it’s a brute.

GMC

Reason to love it #2: The powertrains provide some top-notch grunt

Even though General Motors ditched the excellent I4 turbodiesel when this new model came out, they replaced it with one of the most powerful gasoline engines in its class. Every trim of the 2025 GMC Canyon uses the same turbocharged 2.7-liter engine that makes 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. While the horsepower is far less than the Ford Ranger Raptor’s 405 hp, it makes just as much torque.

Thus, it’s not as fast as the Ranger Raptor, but it’s still quick. The Canyon’s 0 to 60 mph times have been reported to be well under 7 seconds. It’s also more efficient, with EPA ratings of 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, compared to the Ranger Raptor’s 16 mpg city and 18 mpg highway ratings.

Several different colors and textures to make this pickup look special inside.

GMC

Reason to love it #3: The interior is a step up from basic pickup trucks

The Canyon comes with an 11.3″ diagonal touch-screen, an 11″ diagonal color Driver Information Center, and an optional 6.3″ diagonal multi-color head-up display in higher trims.

Many standard features are available on the lower models, while others, like heated & ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel, are optional on all but the Denali.

I’m impressed with the nice details in the base model Elevation, such as the subtle and tasteful use of faux metal trim, excellent screen placement, and attractive interior design.

If you choose the next-level AT4, you will be upgraded to contrasting-color trim pieces with matching synthetic leather and cloth seating. The Denali adds leather throughout the cabin, real-looking wooden inserts, and lots of extra tech. Lastly, the AT4X uses lots of white and red leather with optional AEV badges, should you opt for that package.

The Canyon even offers best in class towing.

GMC

Reason to love it #4: Towing and payload numbers are impressive

When properly equipped, the GMC Canyon can tow a maximum of 7,700 lbs. That’s best in class, and I can attest it’s a great little truck to tow with. Its maximum payload of 1,720 lbs is second in its class, but it still rivals many full-size pickup trucks in the market.

Keep in mind that those numbers drop when you go up to higher trims with additional hardware. The weight and drag coming from things like larger tires, beefier off-road suspension, and armor reduce hauling capability,

Reason to love it #5: Outstanding daily driver

As great a work truck as it is, the GMC Canyon doubles as a terrific daily driver. Its overall size isn’t much smaller than that of a full-size pickup truck, but it’s easier to maneuver, park, and store. Its excellent power also makes passing, overtaking, and off-the-line speed a relative breeze.

Front and rear lockers, excellent ground clearance and chunky tires are only part of the package.

GMC

Reason to love it #6: One of the best 4x4s on the market

Even the base model 4WD Canyon comes with the tried and true Eaton G80 automatic locking rear differential. It spools up and locks at low rpm, and it works automatically. A driver-selectable full-locking rear differential is available, and you can even add both front and rear lockers with the AT4X package.

The Canyon has 9.6 inches of ground clearance right out of the box, which can be upgraded to 12.2 inches if you opt for the AT4X. That trim also includes the Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) Multi-Matic shocks, which use proven racing technology to self-adjust for any terrain.

At the top of the off-road tree sits the Canyon AT4X AEV Edition. In addition to knobby Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT LT315/70R17 mud-terrain tires, the AT4X AEV Package delivers serious underside protection, advanced suspension, rugged tires, locking differentials, increased ride height, and impressive power.

One bed size, one cabin layout and just one powertrain.

GMC

Reason to think twice #1: One size must fit all

Some wish GMC would give the public more layout choices than the single cab configuration and five-foot bed.

The space inside the cab is also a bit tight in the back seat. Unexpectedly, the two odd ducks among the midsize pickup truck gang, the Jeep Gladiator and the Honda Ridgeline, have the most useable and comfortable backseat space.

*The Chevy is a compelling alternative.*

Chevrolet

Reason to think twice #2: Its Chevrolet Colorado brother might be better

The bottom line is that you can get a comparable Chevrolet for thousands less. A Chevrolet Colorado WT 4WD with no packages will run up to $8,000 less than a GMC Canyon Elevation. Even if you opt for the beefier engine on the Chevrolet, the savings remain in the thousands.

Yes, the interior design is not quite as fancy as GMC’s setup, and there are fewer goodies available overall, but that’s not a dealbreaker for some. I would compare and contrast the GMC with the Chevrolet if you’re concerned about price.

Speaking of price.

There’s nearly a $30,000 difference between the base model to the very top of the Canyon lineup.

GMC

Reason to think twice #3: Price, price, price…

Buckle up, buttercup, because these prices are going to create turbulence. The base model Elevation starts at $39,995, and it’s a whopping $3,300 to get the 4WD option. The AT4 is $47,295 with standard 4WD, while the Denali is even pricier at $53,595, albeit also with standard 4WD.

In terms of packages, the AT4X is priced at $6,980, while the Nightfall Edition comes in at $4,595. Both options are worth considering if you’re looking to enhance the functionality or add a touch of pizzazz to your Canyon. The good news is that the AT4X AEV Edition package was at least discounted from $10,000 to $8,000.

All in all, a fully loaded 2025 GMC AT4X AEV Edition will run you around $68,000. Add a few options, and you will be well into the $70,000 zone. Yikes.

Just so we’re clear: a 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor, one of the best vehicles in this class, starts at about $56,000 and peaks at under $60,000.

Final thoughts

As I’ve said about the Ford Ranger Raptor, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, and similar trucks, resisting the allure of the top-tier models can still land you an outstanding pickup truck.

If you do opt to pay to play, then you will get one of the most capable off-road vehicles sold in the United States right out of the box, a theory that also applies to the 2025 GMC Canyon.