2021 GMC Canyon vs 2021 Honda Ridgeline

The 2021 GMC Canyon, a refreshed version of its second generation, presented a more robust aesthetic with an enlarged grille and revised front bumper, aligning it with the full-size GMC Sierra. Despite these updates, the Canyon largely retained its previous design, which was not a significant drawback in the midsize pickup market, where competitors like the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma also had older designs. The Canyon's interior focused on functionality, with a sensible control layout, though it featured hard plastics and average fit-and-finish. The truck offered various trims, from the base Elevation Standard to the off-road-inspired AT4 and the luxurious Denali, each adding unique features and capabilities.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline underwent a redesign that enhanced its truck-like appearance with a new front end and rear bumper, aggressive tire treads, and new wheel designs. The Ridgeline was available in Sport, EX-L, Touring, and Black Edition trims, each offering a range of features. It came standard with a 280-horsepower V6 engine, torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Ridgeline's interior, modeled after the Honda Pilot SUV, emphasized functionality with generous storage and easy-to-clean surfaces. It was known for its comfort and utility, offering a roomy rear seat and a composite cargo bed with innovative features like a dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk.

The 2021 GMC Canyon offered a range of engine options, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. More powerful options included a 3.6-litre V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivering 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, a 2.8-litre Duramax turbodiesel engine was available, offering 181 horsepower and a robust 369 pound-feet of torque. The Canyon's towing capacity reached up to 3,493 kilograms, making it a leader in its class. The AT4 trim, equipped with the V6 and 4WD, provided off-road capabilities without compromising on-road comfort.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline featured a single engine option: a 280-horsepower V6 with 262 pound-feet of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Its standard all-wheel-drive system with Intelligent Variable Torque Management allowed for torque-vectoring, enhancing its driving dynamics. The Ridgeline's Intelligent Traction Management offered settings for Snow, Sand, and Mud, though it was not designed for rock-crawling. With a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms and a payload rating of 694 kilograms, the Ridgeline was competitive in its segment. Its unibody construction and independent rear suspension contributed to a smooth and athletic driving experience, particularly on flat terrain.

The 2021 GMC Canyon was available in Extended Cab and Crew Cab configurations. The Extended Cab featured rear-hinged half-doors and small jump seats, while the Crew Cab offered more usable rear-seat space with four full doors. The Canyon provided a commanding driving position, though seat adjustments could be awkward. Storage options included a centre console and small door trays. The truck offered two bed sizes: a short bed and a long bed, with the Extended Cab only available with the long box. The Canyon's EZ lift-and-lower tailgate and CornerStep rear bumper enhanced bed access and usability.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline excelled in comfort and functionality, offering a spacious interior with a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a roomy rear seat. Standard features included triple-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, and heated seats. The Ridgeline's utility was highlighted by a large centre storage console, numerous storage compartments, and a composite cargo bed with tie-down hooks and a power outlet. Its dual-action tailgate and in-bed trunk added versatility, with the tailgate capable of dropping or swinging open for easier access. The bed's 960-litre cargo space accommodated building materials, and the in-bed trunk included a drain plug for easy cleaning.

The 2021 GMC Canyon came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen with navigation, HD radio, and a wireless charging pad. The Denali trim included a 4.2-inch colour driver display for easy access to vehicle settings and information.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included a seven-speaker sound system, text-messaging capability, and basic HondaLink services. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, and a premium sound system. The Ridgeline's technology was straightforward, with a focus on essential connectivity and entertainment features.

The 2021 GMC Canyon offered standard safety features such as a rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring, and the Teen Driver system. The optional Driver Alert package included forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and rear parking alert, standard on the Denali trim. The Denali also featured an upgraded HD backup camera and Hitch Guidance for easier towing.

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline came with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. While these features were generally helpful, they were not infallible, as demonstrated during a test drive. The Ridgeline also included a multi-angle reversing camera and automatic high-beam headlights. Its crashworthiness was supported by Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering standards, earning high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.