To no one’s surprise, the GMC Canyon is getting a new powertrain for 2017 just like its twin, the Chevrolet Colorado. A new 3.6-liter V-6 and an eight-speed automatic transmission replace the old 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic for a bit more power and supposedly better fuel economy (although EPA ratings aren’t yet available). A luxury-oriented Denali trim level joins the lineup for 2017, as does a new All Terrain X option package (pictured above) with a few more off-road bits.
As in the Colorado, the new V-6 adds 3 horsepower and 6 lb-ft more torque, for totals of 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. Combined with the taller ratios of the eight-speed automatic and a new cylinder deactivation system, it should provide a small improvement in fuel economy. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and 2.8-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder remain unchanged and still pair with a six-speed automatic?or a six-speed manual, on certain rear-drive 2.5-liter models. We’re a little sad that the Canyon’s All Terrain X treatment doesn’t go quite as far as the bigger Sierra’s similar package; the Canyon would certainly look cool with the sport bar that comes standard on the Sierra All Terrain X. But the Canyon’s package does add Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac off-road tires and all-weather floor mats on top of the standard All Terrain package, which includes an off-road suspension, hill descent control, 17-inch wheels, side step bars, and a few o...