General Motors' two midsize pickup trucks, the Chevrolet Colorado and the GMC Canyon, have long been similar in terms of their performance and features. In 2023, however, the two cousins both received full redesigns with some new features to distinguish them from each other. While both offer powerful performance and enhanced technology, one truck will appeal to drivers who prefer to take the road less traveled. Review this guide for a full breakdown of the differences between the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and the 2023 GMC Canyon.
Trims
Both the GMC Canyon and the Chevy Colorado come in a range of trims designed to meet your needs. The 2023 Canyon comes in four unique trims: the Elevation, AT4, Denali, and AT4X. The AT4X, a new addition to the Canyon lineup this year, features standard front and rear electronic-locking differentials and performance-ready suspension technology. With up to 10.7 inches of ground clearance, the AT4X is ready to tackle any obstacle you might encounter on the trails.
In comparison, the Chevy Colorado comes in five trims, including the off-roading ZR2. The base Canyon has the same powertrain as the Colorado ZR2, essentially giving you the same performance with additional features and more available options.
Power and Performance
Every 2023 GMC Canyon comes powered by a 2.7-liter turbo high-output engine. It produces an impressive 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. The AT4, Denali, and AT4X trims all get standard four-wheel drive. Four selectable drive modes, available on the Elevation and standard on other trims, include tow/haul, off-road, and terrain. The AT4X also has an exclusive Baja mode for high-speed off-roading, perfect for your next adventure.
Under the hood of a 2023 Chevy Colorado, you'll find a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers three levels of output, depending on the trim. The base trim gets 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the two mid-range trims get 310 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The Colorado ZR2 delivers the same power and torque as the GMC Canyon. Like its GMC cousin, the Colorado comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive comes standard and four-wheel drive is optional on the Colorado WT and LT, while other trims get standard four-wheel drive.
Towing Capacity
You can trust either the Canyon or the Colorado to handle even the heaviest loads. Both trucks have a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. You'll get this full capacity in the Canyon Elevation, AT4, and Denali. The AT4X trim can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.
In the Colorado, you'll get the maximum 7,700-pound capacity in the Z71 and Trail Boss trims. Like the Canyon AT4X, the Colorado ZR2 can tow up to 6,000 pounds. The base WT and LT trims can only tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Exterior Design
The GMC Canyon offers more than an off-road-ready performance and impressive power. With its tall, wide stance and high-clearance front fascia, the Canyon is ready to take on even the toughest obstacles. Every Canyon comes with LED headlights and daytime running lights. The AT4 trims feature a unique grille and badging to help you stand out among other drivers on the roadways in Vincennes, Indiana. A remote locking tailgate comes standard, and most trims also come with a MultiStow tailgate for additional storage.
Like the Canyon, the Chevy Colorado comes in a crew-cab configuration with a short box measuring 61.7 inches. Halogen headlights and daytime running come standard, but you'll get LED lights on the two upper trims. Besides the base trim, every Colorado comes with a remote locking tailgate. An available StowFlex tailgate, standard on the ZR2, features a lockable storage compartment for your tools or other essentials.
Interior Features
The GMC Canyon may be designed to handle rugged terrain, but inside the truck, you'll enjoy elegant features and premium amenities. Standard features include black cloth upholstery, keyless open and start, and an 8-inch multicolor driver information display. As you move up in trims, you'll get additional features like leather-appointed seats, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-way power driver's seat with lumbar support. In the Denali and AT4X, you'll get heated and ventilated front seats for ultimate comfort, plus a heated steering wheel for chilly days.
Similarly, the Chevy Colorado offers a comfortable interior, but you'll get fewer standard features across the lineup. Heated front seats are only standard in the top-tier Colorado ZR2 but available in lower trims for an additional cost. However, the ZR2 only offers ventilated front seats as an add-on option. Single-zone climate control comes standard in every trim except the ZR2. You'll also have to choose the top trim for a power-adjustable driver's seat, though it's an option on lower trims.
Technology and Infotainment
Whether you're making your daily commute in Vincennes or hitting the open road, you'll stay connected and entertained in the GMC Canyon. Every model comes equipped with an 11.3-inch touch screen. This state-of-the-art infotainment system includes Google built-in and wireless smartphone integration. Voice-activated technology allows you to use your phone without having to take your hands off the wheel. Front USB ports come standard, and most trims offer additional ports in the back. Wireless charging comes standard in the Denali and AT4X trims.
In the Colorado, you'll get the same 11.3-inch touch screen across the lineup. Like the Canyon, the Colorado allows you to ditch the cords with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Front USB ports come standard, and wireless charging is an available option in some trims.
Safety and Driver Assistance
When you drive either a GMC Canyon or a Chevy Colorado, you can feel confident that you're protected on the road. Both trucks come with a wide range of safety and driver assistance features, including:
- Forward collision alert.
- Automatic emergency braking.
- Front pedestrian braking.
- Lane keep assist with lane departure warning.
- Following distance indicator.
- Automatic high-beam headlights.
- High-definition rear vision camera.
Find an All-New 2023 GMC Canyon in Vincennes, Indiana
The 2023 GMC Canyon and the 2023 Chevy Colorado share some similarities, but the Canyon is the clear winner for off-road enthusiasts who want to tackle the toughest terrain. With its impressive ground clearance, high-performance powertrain, and luxurious interior amenities, the Canyon simply has more to offer than the Colorado. Want to take a closer look at this off-road-ready truck? At Uebelhor & Sons Buick GMC Vincennes, we offer a wide selection of new GMC vehicles, including the 2023 Canyon. Check out our current inventory or contact us for more information.