2004 GMC Canyon Review
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By John Matras

Overview

GMC's all-new Canyon pickup expands, literally, the concept of the General Motors mid-size pickup. Although the truck is marginally shorter than its predecessor, the Sonoma, its about four inches wider inside. That bit of data is significant because it represents GMC's increased attention to comfort in the Canyon while not sacrificing the utility for the things that mid-size pickup drivers do most.

With the Canyon's distinctive new styling, it won't be confused with its GMC predecessor, the Sonoma. As the first all-new GMC truck in its class for more than a decade, the Canyon is significantly improved over the Sonoma, with a stronger frame and a suspension that's friendlier to the fanny.

The Canyon has two new engines, both more powerful than those available in the Sonoma. Both have an inline configuration, one with four cylinders and the other with five. This a true pickup, with a unique frame not shared with any other truck or SUV.

The Canyon is roomy and comfortable inside and has a nice, quiet ride quality. Even the full-on off-road model feels remarkably civilized. On the highway, the Canyon feels solid and stable. The optional five-cylinder engine gives it good power, better than competing V6 engines.

Model Lineup

The GMC Canyon is available in two trim levels: the SL, essentially work truck trim, and the SLE, outfitted in civvies rather than dungarees. The Canyon can be further subdivided into those with two-wheel and four-wheel drive, and again by cab, whether standard, extended or crew. And that's before engine, transmission and suspension choices. Consult your neighborhood mathematician for the combinations and permutations attendant thereto.

SL trim includes 15-inch aluminum wheels, split-bench folding seats in base cloth, vinyl floor covering, AM/FM radio and air conditioning. The SLE adds or substitutes front bucket seats in upgrade cloth, a floor console and armrest, color-keyed carpeting, CD player, a rear seat on extended cab models, and a tilt wheel and cruise control on extended cab and crew cab models.

Adding the Z71 High Stance off-road package raises the Canyon 3.6 inches, and adds about $4,000 to the price. The Z71 package, available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive, includes larger color-keyed flares, fog lamps, tow hooks, leather-wrapped wheel, skid plates (on 4x4 only), locking differential and, on two-wheel-drive models, traction control.

Side-curtain air bags are optional ($235). The power convenience group ($500) includes power windows, locks and mirrors. Leather, heated, power adjustable driver and passenger seats ($1,495) are available as a package on Crew Cab models only.