2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 GMC Canyon

The 2021 GMC Canyon, a midsize pickup, had been around since its second generation debuted in 2015. After a six-year run, it received its first refresh, which included an enlarged grille and a revised front bumper, aligning it more closely with its full-size sibling, the GMC Sierra. Despite these updates, the Canyon largely retained its original design, which was less of an issue in the midsize truck market where competitors like the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma were also aging. The interior of the Canyon prioritized function over form, featuring a sensible layout with hard plastics and mediocre fit-and-finish. The trims ranged from the base Elevation Standard to the off-road-inspired AT4 and the luxurious Denali, each offering varying levels of features and capabilities.

In contrast, the 2021 RAM 1500 was a carryover model from its 2019 redesign, maintaining its configurations of quad cab or crew cab models with different bed lengths. The standout for 2021 was the introduction of the TRX model, a purpose-built off-road beast inspired by rally races. The TRX featured a commanding presence with a functioning hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. Its interior, while maintaining the Ram brand's first-class comfort and technology, was elevated in both durability and luxury. The TRX came with a black premium cloth and vinyl pairing, with available leather and suede options. The cabin was equipped with a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display, offering a wealth of techie-friendly features and personalization options.

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. The more powerful 3.6-litre V6, standard on the Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, delivered 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, a 2.8-litre Duramax four-cylinder 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 (7,700 pounds) with the turbodiesel engine, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX, on the other hand, was powered by a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 engine, delivering an impressive 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This powerhouse enabled the TRX to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 190 km/h. The TRX's towing capacity was slightly higher than the Canyon's, at 3,674 kilograms (8,100 pounds). The TRX also featured a segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension, providing a comfortable ride both on and off-road. Its off-road capabilities were further enhanced by eight drive modes, including a newly calibrated Baja mode, making it a formidable off-road performer straight from the factory.

The 2021 GMC Canyon was available in Extended Cab and Crew Cab variants. The Extended Cab featured rear-hinged half-doors and small second-row jump seats, suitable for children or small items. The Crew Cab offered more usable rear-seat space with four full doors. The Canyon's driving position was commanding, though seat adjustment was somewhat awkward. Storage options included a centre console, small door trays, and cupholders. The Canyon offered two bed sizes: a short bed measuring 1,567 mm and a long bed at 1,880 mm. The Extended Cab came with a long box, while the Crew Cab offered both options. The Canyon also featured GM's CornerStep rear bumper for easy bed access and an EZ lift-and-lower tailgate.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX, despite its larger exterior proportions, shared identical interior dimensions with the standard Ram 1500. Front headroom and legroom measured 1,038 mm and 1,040 mm, respectively, with the rear seats offering 1,011 mm and 1,147 mm. The TRX's interior was designed for comfort and functionality, with plenty of storage options, including a large centre storage bin. The TRX Level 2 package-equipped test truck featured compliant front seats and powered-adjustable pedals, offering excellent adjustability for drivers of all sizes. The TRX's seating position was more adjustable compared to its rivals, providing a comfortable driving experience on long journeys.

The 2021 GMC Canyon came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running the latest GMC infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system offered crisp graphics and an easy-to-use menu layout, with hard buttons and dials for added convenience. A larger 8-inch screen with navigation was optional on the Elevation and AT4 trims and standard on the Denali, which also included HD radio and a wireless charging pad. The Denali trim featured a 4.2-inch colour driver display, operated via a directional pad on the steering wheel, allowing easy access to vehicle settings and driver information.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX featured a 12-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 4C infotainment system, offering a fully customizable display. Owners could drag and drop frequently used controls to the bottom menu bar and configure the screen as a single-panel or split-screen display. The system included wireless charging, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, and ports for AUX, USB-A, and USB-C connectors. The TRX also offered a 10-speaker Alpine system, with a 19-speaker Harmon Kardon premium audio package available. Additional features included a full-colour head-up display, providing real-time driving information, and a range of SiriusXM enhancements.

The 2021 GMC Canyon came with standard safety features such as a rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring system, front-and-side-impact airbags, traction control, 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 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, including forward collision warning and advanced driver-assistance systems. A rear backup camera with dynamic guidelines was standard, while the Advanced Safety Group package added a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection. The Technology Group included a digital rear-view mirror and a brake-activated centre high-mount stop lamp. Other available features included adaptive headlights, hill-start assist, blind-spot monitoring, and front and rear park assistance with automatic braking.