How different is the 2024 GMC Canyon from the 2023 GMC Canyon? Before you make your choice, we’re here to tell you about the differences between these two midsize trucks.
Key Takeaways
- After a full redesign for 2023, the 2024 Canyon only makes one big change, introducing its new AT4X AEV trim model.
- Both trucks deliver a strong performance with their turbocharged, 310-horsepower engine.
- These Canyons are available as the Elevation, AT4, AT4X, and Denali trim models. Only the 2024 Canyon offers the supremely rugged AT4X AEV trim.
- The 2024 Canyon (starting at $36,000) is actually a slightly better deal than the 2023 Canyon (starting at $36,900).
New Features
GMC completely redesigned the Canyon for the 2023 model year! Updates include new safety and infotainment features, plus lots of new off-road options. The latter include a new AT4X trim model, which helps you tackle extra-rugged terrain with 10.7 inches of ground clearance and 33-inch mud-terrain tires. The new Edition 1 package adds to the AT4X trim lineup with 17-inch beadlock capable wheels, a winch, and extra cameras. Other Canyon trim models also come with increased height. For example, the entry-level Elevation gets a 2-inch lift compared to previous models.
The 2024 Canyon features most of the prior year’s updates, but it makes one major addition with the AEV AT4X trim model. This new model replaces the Edition 1 package, delivering the Canyon’s most capable off-road performance. The AEV AT4X includes AEV steel bumpers, 17-inch AEV wheels, and stronger skid plates, among other upgrades.
Canyon Powertrain Options
Both Canyon model years are available with only one engine: a torque-heavy, turbocharged inline-four. Although the base Elevation trim model comes standard with rear-wheel drive, the other Canyon trim models come standard with four-wheel drive. (Four-wheel drive is optional for the Elevation.)
Powertrain specs for the 2023 and 2024 GMC Canyon remain the same, with:
- Turbocharged 2.7L inline four-cylinder engine (310 horsepower, 430 pound-feet of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Elevation: rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
- AT4, AT4X, AT4X AEV, Denali: Four-wheel drive
Canyon Trim Models
The 2024 Canyon introduces a new trim model with the AT4X AEV. However, the other Canyon trims — the base Elevation, off-road-ready AT4, luxurious Denali, and extra-rugged AT4X — are available for both the 2023 and 2024 model years!
Elevation
Even the Canyon’s entry-level model is stylish and classy. It’s also big on tech features, with an 8-inch digital gauge cluster, an 11.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Creature comforts — like the standard height-adjustable driver’s seat and tilting steering wheel — might be basic, but they won’t go unappreciated. Finally, the Elevation comes ready for action, with all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension.
AT4
Increased off-road capabilities in the AT4! Its standard four-wheel-drive system includes a two-speed transfer case for enhanced driver control in difficult terrain. These trucks are also available with a little extra luxury, thanks to options like leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats.
Denali
The Denali is the right Canyon for drivers who crave a sporty yet luxurious drive. In these upscale trucks, you’ll enjoy special interior styling, leather seating, and a Bose premium audio system, among other upgrades. The Denali is easy to spot, too, with its extra chrome exterior trim and 20-inch wheels.
AT4X
To charge even further into the wild, check out the Canyon AT4X. This truck builds on the AT4’s off-roading gear with extra utility features, including rock rails, locking front and rear differentials, and more aggressive mud-terrain tires. Plus, the AT4X comes standard with the AT4’s luxury options, including a wireless smartphone charging pad, heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.
AT4X AEV (2024 only)
The 2024 Canyon’s AT4X AEV Edition is a hardcore off-roader. This truck adds 1.5 inches of ground clearance to the AT4X’s stance, giving you a total of 12.2 inches of height. Naturally, this truck is loaded with AEV gear, including 17-inch AEV wheels and steel bumpers. Also included are 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler MT tires and stronger skid plates.
GMC Canyon MSRP
For 2024, GMC reduced the Canyon’s starting price ever so slightly. You can now drive home in a Canyon starting at $36,000. The 2023 Canyon is just a little bit more expensive, with an MSRP of $36,900.
Your New Canyon
If you’re shopping for next-level off-roading with the AT4X AEV, it’s only available from the 2024 Canyon lineup. Otherwise, though, these midsize trucks are strikingly similar. In other words, feel free to test-drive both Canyons with serious interest!