2023 GMC Canyon vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2023 RAM 1500 was a full-size pickup available in both quad cab and larger crew cab configurations, with bed lengths of 6-foot, 4-inch or 5-foot, 7-inch. The Limited trim, which was near the top of the eight available trims, offered a luxurious experience with its $3,895 Night Edition package, featuring a stealthy look with 22-inch black aluminum wheels. Inside, the Limited trim was adorned with leather, contrasting stitching, and open-pore wood on the dash, complemented by metallic trim. The 12-inch portrait-oriented screen added a unique touch to the interior, alongside practical features like chunky volume controls and a Ram logo on the dash.

In contrast, the 2023 GMC Canyon presented a more aggressive exterior design, with headlights and daytime running lights positioned along a broad grille and a prominent front bumper. The body sides featured bulges and creases, giving it a muscular appearance. The Canyon shared dimensions with the Chevy Colorado, offering a longer wheelbase and an "Ultra Wide Track" stance. The Denali trim stood out with chrome accents and 20-inch wheels, while the interior boasted laser-etched open-pore wood trim and leather upholstery. The Canyon AT4X model was designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring red-and-white upholstery and red dashboard trim, providing a vibrant alternative to monochrome interiors.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel engine. The top TRX trim featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8, delivering 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The eTorque system provided up to 130 lb-ft of supplemental torque, enhancing fuel economy and power. The V8 engine produced 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAM 1500 excelled in towing, with a maximum capacity of 5,783 kilograms and a payload of up to 1,043 kilograms. The truck's coilover suspension and available air suspension ensured a smooth ride, while the Trailer Tow package offered features like Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The 2023 GMC Canyon, on the other hand, was equipped with a single powertrain: a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the Canyon was available exclusively with four-wheel drive, featuring a single-speed transfer case on the Elevation and a two-speed transfer case on other models. The AT4X model was designed for off-road adventures, with features like electronic lockers, skid plates, and 33-inch mud terrain tires. The Canyon offered a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability, with the AT4X excelling in handling various obstacles.

The 2023 RAM 1500 boasted a spacious interior with numerous storage options, including a two-tiered centre console and a multifunction tailgate. The crew cab configuration provided ample rear legroom of 1,148 millimetres, and the rear seats could recline up to eight degrees. The RamBox storage system offered secure, lockable storage in the rear quarter panel. The Limited trim featured heated and cooled front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and a flat rear floor for easy cargo loading.

The 2023 GMC Canyon was available only in a crew cab configuration with a 5.2-foot bed. Despite the lack of a longer bed option, the Canyon offered generous first-row legroom and competitive second-row legroom. The MultiStow tailgate included a waterproof storage compartment, although its utility was limited by its narrow design. The Canyon's towing capacity reached 3,492 kilograms, while the maximum payload was 716 kilograms. However, the Canyon lacked features like a telescoping steering wheel and power-adjustable front seats, which were expected from a premium brand like GMC.

The 2023 RAM 1500 featured a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the Uconnect interface, allowing for dual-functionality and Bluetooth connectivity for two phones. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though there was some lag with the former. The optional Equipment Group 1 added a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. The RAM 1500 Limited was equipped with multiple USB outlets, a wireless charging pad, and 115-volt and 12-volt outlets.

The 2023 GMC Canyon came standard with an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital instrument cluster. The Denali and AT4X trims included a 6.3-inch head-up display, wireless phone charging, and a Bose premium audio system. The infotainment system featured Google Built-In functionality, with Google Maps as the default navigation system. The Off-Road Performance Display provided real-time data for off-road adventures, while the surround-view camera system offered an underbody view for precise off-road navigation.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring available as options or part of packages. The NHTSA awarded the RAM 1500 crew cab a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS gave it Good marks in most categories, with some Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.

The 2023 GMC Canyon's safety features included the standard Canyon Pro Safety Package, which offered automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. The optional Safety Plus Package added rear cross-traffic alert and blind-zone steering assist. The Denali and AT4X trims included these features as standard, along with a Safety Alert Seat. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.