​​2026 GMC Canyon AT4X First Drive Review​ 

GMC is a storied brand that makes trucks and SUVs that can conquer anything that’s put in front of them. And while taking control of those obstacles, vehicles like the GMC Canyon do so while featuring amazing luxuries and comfort for all passengers.  

A First Drive Review 

In a new first-drive review, MotorTrend tested a 2026 Canyon AT4X to see how it stacks up against its main rivals.  

Trim Levels and Power 

For 2026, the GMC Canyon is available in four trim levels: Elevation, AT4, Denali, and AT4X, and starts from $40,995. Powering all models is a dynamic and efficient 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic that is intuitive and smart in automatic modes and can be put into manual mode for extra control in various circumstances. While the base Elevation trim can be optioned as either a 2WD or 4WD pickup, all other models come standard with four-wheel drive.  

Towing Capacity 

The GMC Canyon can tow up to 7,700 lbs. However, the AT4X, with its off-road-specific suspension and tires, can tow up to 6,000 lbs.  

Off-Road Ability and On-Road Usability 

What makes the Canyon AT4X special is its ability to perform well on regular roads and highways while also being right at home when taken off-road. It’s the best of both worlds type of truck without subjecting the driver and passengers to excessive punishment for being off-road ready.  

What Makes the AT4X Different 

GMC made sure that the AT4X was a completely unique truck that offers a factory 3-inch lift with 10.7 inches of ground clearance (1 inch more than other trims), front and rear electronic locking differentials, 33-inch Mud Terrain tires, a special Baja Mode for high-speed off-road driving, and the ultra-special Multimatic DSSV dampers that offer perfect balance of on-road comfort and off-road control.  

The Canyon Is Different Enough from Its Cousin, The Colorado ZR2 

“While the Canyon AT4X wasn’t the first truck of its kind out of the gate, it quickly garnered a reputation as a more luxurious and highly capable alternative to the mechanically similar Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison.” 

The Canyon Compared to The Tacoma 

There are trucks on the market that do offer a lot of off-road equipment, and in some cases, more than the GMC Canyon. However, having that much extra stuff doesn’t make it a better vehicle, as MotorTrend noted when it comes to the Toyota Tacoma, saying, “Thanks in large part to its hybrid powertrain, the Toyota is $5,650 more than the GMC. And, no, we don’t think the addition of the standard snorkel, Rigid Industries LED color-switching foglights, grille-mounted LED light bar, and sport bar in the bed are worth the additional cost.” 

Standard Tech Features 

Just because it’s an off-road truck doesn’t mean it can’t have the latest in advanced technology, though. The GMC Canyon comes standard with an 11.3-inch premium touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 11-inch fully digital instrument cluster, and Google Built-in. The AT4X also comes with a 7-speaker Bose sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, the handy MultiStow tailgate, and more.  

Excellent Standard Safety 

The Canyon also comes standard with industry-leading safety tech, thanks to the Canyon Pro Safety package, which includes Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking with Bicyclist Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam auto high-beam headlights. The AT4X further adds Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist with Trailering, and Safety Alert Seat.  

In Conclusion 

When all was said and done, MotorTrend found the GMC Canyon, even three years after its all-new debut, is still an amazing truck for buyers: “… we still feel like the 2026 GMC Canyon AT4X won’t disappoint its target audience: fans of GM trucks who want to really tackle off-road obstacles from the inside of what’s a rather luxurious midsize pickup.” 

Let Valley GMC Help You Find the Perfect Vehicle 

Valley GMC has all the right trucks and SUVs that will fit both your budget and your lifestyle. Their expert sales team can answer all your questions and help you find the right vehicle at the best price around without ever making you feel pressured.  

Why Choose Valley GMC 

Valley GMC prides itself on offering the best prices and services to meet all of our customers’ needs. With dozens of new and used vehicles available, our incredible sales team and finance department can help you find the best truck or SUV for you and your family. And our fantastic service department will work hard to maintain your vehicle to the highest standards. We look forward to serving you.