General Motors released the EPA fuel economy estimates for its GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado pickup trucks with the 2.8L turbocharged four-cylinder Duramax diesel engine – earning a very respectable 31 mpg highway (22 city and 25 combined). These figures make the truck duo the highest rated of any pickup trucks sold in the U.S., gasoline or diesel. The new engine produces 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Canyon/Colorado to tow 7600 pounds and 7700 pounds in their 4WD and 2WD variations, respectively. These tow ratings give bragging rights to the GM trucks over the 2015 Ram 1500 V6 and some of the 5.7L V8s as well as the naturally aspirated F-150 3.5L V6, as well as other full-size trucks.
The mpg advantage comes at a premium, however. The 2.8L diesel adds $3730 to the Monroney versus a gasoline-powered V6 engine for the pair of trucks. However, we suspect the real reason consumers will be interested in the engine is for its towing capability, not the incremental fuel savings. According to Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing,“GMC Canyon is designed for those who want a smart-sized premium pickup that is quiet, capable and efficient and the new Duramax diesel engine gives customers another choice for handling heavier work and recreational needs – while doing it efficiently. It’s the very definition of GMC’s professional grade ethos.”
Going on sale this fall, the Durmax diesel will be available in SLE and SLT Crew Cab models. Buyers must opt for the available towing package to get it, which includes the only automatic locking rear differential in the segment, according to GM. Watch the video below of Nathan reviewing the 2016 GMC Canyon Duramax Diesel below.
