2023 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2024 GMC Canyon

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 underwent a styling update in 2022, which maintained its status as an attractive full-size truck. The changes included a wider grille and updated headlights, but these modifications were more of a lateral move rather than a significant redesign. The interior, however, marked a departure from its predecessor, aligning more with the trend of making truck cabins resemble those of daily driver cars and SUVs. The new dashboard featured a large screen, moving away from the simpler layout of the past. While the updated infotainment system was more complex, it retained traditional climate controls and a conventional volume dial, which some users appreciated.

The Sierra 1500 offered a range of trims, from the base Pro to the luxurious Denali Ultimate. The Pro trim retained the simpler infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured a 13.4-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Denali Ultimate trim was packed with features, including a Kicker sound system, massaging front seats, and a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system. The AT4 and AT4X trims catered to off-road enthusiasts, with features like skid plates, a lifted suspension, and upgraded dampers.

The 2024 GMC Canyon was a standout in the midsize truck segment, boasting dimensions that made it one of the tallest in its class. Its height and width were notable, providing a commanding presence on the road. The Canyon shared many components with the Chevrolet Colorado but offered superior ground clearance. Available in four trims, the Canyon catered to various needs, from the work-oriented Elevation to the luxury-focused Denali and the off-road-ready AT4 and AT4X.

The AT4X trim, tested with the AEV package, was equipped with 35-inch all-terrain tires, beadlock-capable wheels, and multiple steel skid plates. The package also included a lift kit, enhancing the truck's off-road capabilities. Inside, the Canyon featured high-quality materials and a comfortable cabin, with the Obsidian Rush upholstery adding a touch of luxury. Despite its rugged exterior, the Canyon's interior was almost luxurious, with excellent fit and finish.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four powertrain options, starting with a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine delivered 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque, with a boost in power for 2023. Two gas V8 engines were also available: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-litre V8 generating 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The gas four-cylinder engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the other engines used a 10-speed automatic. The Sierra's towing capacity reached up to 5,987 kilograms, with a maximum payload of 1,093 kilograms.

The Sierra's diesel engine provided a heavy-duty presence, with the 10-speed automatic transmission ensuring optimal power delivery. The truck offered smooth and composed handling, with well-weighted steering and effective brakes. While maneuverability in tight spaces was challenging due to its size, the Sierra excelled in open spaces and off-road conditions, particularly in the AT4 and AT4X trims.

The 2024 GMC Canyon featured a 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine across all trims, delivering 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. This engine was robust enough to be used in larger trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500. The Canyon's towing capacity maxed out at 3,492 kilograms, with a payload of 785 kilograms, surpassing the previous generation. The eight-speed automatic transmission complemented the engine, providing a smooth driving experience. The Canyon's steering retained a truck-like feel, but it handled uneven pavement and corners well, thanks to its Multimatic spool-valve dampers.

The Canyon's road and tire noise were well-dampened, and its brakes performed admirably. The truck's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a two-speed transfer case, auto-locking rear differential, and driver-selectable front and rear lockers. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 13.2 L/100 km in the city and 10.9 on the highway.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, including a regular cab with a standard bed, a single cab with a long bed, a double cab with a standard bed, and a crew cab with either a short or standard bed. Our test model featured the crew cab/short-bed setup, providing ample cabin space with generous head and legroom for both rows. The interior included large storage trays in the doors and multiple spots for water bottles. The centre console featured two large cup holders, a tray ahead of the shifter, and a deep storage compartment with an organizer. The rear bench folded up, offering secure storage space.

The Sierra's MultiPro tailgate provided multiple configurations, including a bed step-up, fold-out workstation, and a passage for longer items. Bed steps cut into the rear bumper corners offered easy access to the cargo bed without moving parts.

The 2024 GMC Canyon excelled in towing capacity, but its interior space was less impressive. Despite its four-door crew cab configuration, rear-seat legroom was limited, making it uncomfortable for adults on long drives. The 1,567-millimetre bed offered less cargo capacity than some competitors, and the AEV package's spare tire further reduced usable space. The Canyon's width and height posed challenges in urban areas, with limited parking garage options due to its height.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Pro came with a 7-inch touchscreen and a carryover infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updated system had a logical layout, large icons, and a home button, but lacked a tuning knob. Google-connected apps were integrated, providing features like trailering status apps and average fuel economy displays. The Denali Ultimate trim included a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet, although its placement was less ideal.

The 2024 GMC Canyon boasted an 11.3-inch touchscreen display with Google Built-in, offering apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant without needing a phone connection. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were also included. The Canyon's infotainment system had quirks, such as embedding headlight controls in the software, requiring drivers to take their eyes off the road. The Denali and AT4X trims featured a head-up display, and all trims had off-road performance display pages.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and GM's Teen Driver system. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The Denali Ultimate trim included GM's Super Cruise driver assist system for hands-free highway driving. The Sierra's rear headrests flipped down for improved visibility, and the rearview camera mirror provided added visibility.

The 2024 GMC Canyon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side-impact tests and three stars for rollover tests. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, and a rear-seat reminder system. Additional driver assist systems were available through options packages on lower trims. The AT4X trim included an HD surround-view camera and a blind-spot avoidance system that worked with a trailer.