What is the Chevy equivalent to the GMC Canyon?
The Chevrolet Colorado is the Chevy equivalent to the GMC Canyon. They are GM’s midsize pickups that share the same core platform and powertrain options, serving similar roles for buyers who want a capable truck in a smaller footprint.
Both trucks were revived for the modern era around the 2023 model year, returning GM to the growing midsize pickup segment after a period of absence. They are engineered to meet similar utility needs—from daily driving to light work tasks and off-road adventures—while carrying distinct branding and styling cues that reflect their Chevrolet and GMC lineage.
Shared engineering and powertrains
This section highlights the engine lineup and transmission choices that apply to both models, illustrating how they align under GM’s midsize-truck strategy.
- 2.7L turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine: roughly 310 horsepower and about 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
- 2.8L Duramax turbodiesel: roughly 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
In practice, these powertrains give both trucks similar performance envelopes, with the gasoline option skewing toward higher horsepower for highway and towing tasks and the diesel option emphasizing torque for tougher pulls and improved fuel efficiency in longer trips.
Differentiating factors: branding, trims and styling
Beyond their shared underpinnings, the two trucks diverge in branding, interior emphasis, and available off-road packages, reflecting their respective Chevrolet and GMC identities.
- Branding and styling: The Colorado uses Chevrolet branding, with a design language aligned to the broader Chevrolet lineup, while the Canyon adopts GMC styling cues, including GMC-specific grille and interior detailing that emphasize a premium feel.
- Off-road and capability variants: Both lines offer off-road-oriented configurations, but the packages and naming reflect each brand’s approach to capability and ruggedness.
- Trim emphasis and features: The Canyon tends to spotlight upscale interior features and premium materials, whereas the Colorado often focuses on a balance of capability and value with a broader range of practical equipment.
These differences help buyers choose between the two if they value premium interior appointments, branding, or a specific off-road configuration, even though the core mechanicals are shared.
Summary
The Chevy Colorado is the Chevrolet counterpart to the GMC Canyon, with both trucks built on the same GM midsize platform and offering similar gasoline and diesel powertrains. The key distinctions lie in branding, styling, and the way each model packages features and off-road readiness. For shoppers, the choice often comes down to brand preference and the specific trim and equipment that best fit their needs.
