Colorado vs Canyon
The Colorado and the Canyon are direct rivals in the midsize pickup class, one from Chevrolet and one from GMC. The gap between the Colorado and the Canyon is narrow enough that price, looks or habit could reasonably tip it. The Colorado launched $6,500 lower than the Canyon, so every advantage on the pricier side has to earn its keep.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Tie
- Fuel Economy & Range Tie
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Safety & Tech Tie
- Price Colorado wins
- Engine & Performance10.0
- Fuel Economy & Range0.7
- Off-road & Towing10.0
- Engine & Performance10.0
- Fuel Economy & Range0.7
- Off-road & Towing10.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 213.2 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Width (no mirrors) | 74.9 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Wheelbase | 131.4 in | 131.4 in |
Engine & Performance
Too close to call
Neither pulls ahead on engine & performance; the numbers are close throughout. Bottom line for engine & performance: it’s a wash.
Fuel Economy & Range
Too close to call
The Colorado and the Canyon match each other closely in this area. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
On space & practicality, the Colorado and the Canyon are effectively level. Treat space & practicality as common ground and look elsewhere for the deciding factor.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
This is a tie in all but name. On off-road & towing, both deliver about the same. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
Too close to call
There’s no meaningful winner in the safety & tech section; the two are too close to separate. Either car will serve you equally well on safety & tech.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.7L turbo I4 (TurboMax) | 2.7L turbo I4 (TurboMax) |
| Total system output | 310 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4WD available) | RWD (4WD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | 19 mpg | 19 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Fuel tank | 21 gal | 21 gal |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 7,700 lb | 7,700 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | 11.3 in | 11.3 in |
| Driver-assist suite | Chevy Safety Assist | GMC Pro Safety |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 213.2 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Width (no mirrors) | 74.9 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Wheelbase | 131.4 in | 131.4 in |
Price
| Spec | Colorado | Canyon |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $31,900 (winner) Lowest price in class | $38,400 |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Price & Value
In launch price, the Colorado is the clear budget pick, coming in $6,500 (20%) below the Canyon. With strengths on both sides, the $6,500 price gap becomes a useful tiebreaker.
All prices are official US launch prices, last checked launch. Actual prices at stores may differ.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Colorado if…
- you want the lower price and can live with the trade-offs ($6,500 less)
- you already know your way around Chevrolet’s products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Colorado or the Canyon?
The Colorado offers better value, saving $6,500 compared with the Canyon.
Is the Colorado cheaper than the Canyon?
The Colorado is the cheaper option, launching at $6,500 less than the Canyon (launch prices as of launch).
Executive Summary
The Colorado and the Canyon come from rival camps, Chevrolet and GMC, but they’re chasing the same person: you.
Match the strength to your habits (price for the Colorado, the things a spec sheet can’t capture for the Canyon), and you won’t go far wrong.
My pick: the Colorado, with the Canyon only for people who’d use every extra it offers.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.