The midsize pickup truck segment is on fire in the United States. Toyota Tacoma is still leading the pack in sales, but the GM twins (Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon) are not far behind. They are on pace to sell nearly 150,000 units in 2016.
This 2017 Colorado and Canyon buyer’s guide discuses the top decisions to make in order to get the GM midsize truck that best fits your needs and budget.
Chevrolet or GMC?
The Colorado and the Canyon are mechanically the same underneath, but they offer different styling, interior materials, and luxury features. The Canyon is the truck to get if like a luxurious pickup truck. However, the Canyon also starts at $885 more than the Colorado. You get more luxury in the Canyon, but you will also pay more.
Gas or Diesel Power?
The GM midsize pickups are the only one in the segment to offer a turbo-diesel engine in the United States. This boosts the fuel efficiency rating to 29 MPG on the highway, boosts maximum towing capacity to 7,700 lbs, and also boosts the price. The 2.8-l Duramax-powered truck costs approximately $3,700 more than a comparable model with the 3.6L V6 engine. Speaking of the gas V6. The Colorado/Canyon are getting an upgraded 3.6L V6 and an 8-speed automatic transmission for the 2017 model year. We will be doing much more testing on this configuration soon.
Extended Cab or Crew Cab?
The Colorado/Canyon are available in two cab configurations and two bed lengths (5’2” bed or a 6’2” bed). It all depends on how you plan to use your midsize truck, but the crew cab will cost around $2,200 more than a comparable extended cab version.
2WD or 4×4?
You are getting a pickup truck. Naturally, you want or need a 4×4 system. It is a pricey option as it adds several thousand dollars to the price of the truck. Still, some people simply do not need a 4WD system or do not want to pay or cannot pay the premium. This is the final decision you need to make.
There are also four-cylinder gasoline-powered versions of these trucks, which you should consider if price is the critical factor in your buying decision. On the other end of the spectrum is the GMC Canyon Denali, which can be optioned by to over $49,000.
Here the 2017 Chevy Colorado midsize truck buyer’s guide video.
