The Good
The 2011 GMC Canyon offered a balance of practicality and capability. Its smaller size appealed to those needing a truck for urban environments. While not a powerhouse, the available V8 provided decent performance. It was generally considered reliable for its time. For emotional buyers, it offered truck utility in a more manageable package, while practical buyers appreciated its affordability and decent fuel economy for a truck.
The Bad
The 2011 GMC Canyon had its share of weaknesses. The interior plastics were often criticized for being low quality. Some owners reported issues with the four-wheel-drive system, and the fuel economy wasn't great, especially with the larger engines. Watch out for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters, and check the transmission for smooth shifting.
2011 GMC Canyon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.9L Inline-4: 185 hp
- 3.7L Inline-5: 242 hp
- 5.3L V8: 300 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 185 hp (2.9L I4) to 300 hp (5.3L V8)
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.9L I4: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 3.7L I5: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- 5.3L V8: 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated): Varies significantly by engine and configuration; V8 models could achieve approximately 7 seconds. I4 models were considerably slower.
- Towing Capacity:
- Ranges from approximately 4,000 lbs to 6,000 lbs, depending on engine, cab configuration, and drivetrain.
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and basic safety features.
- SLE: Added features such as cruise control, power windows/locks, and upgraded audio system.
- SLT: Included leather upholstery, alloy wheels, and premium sound system. Other optional features included a sunroof, navigation system, and various appearance packages.
- All trims were available in 2WD or 4WD configuration. Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Crew Cab options affected features and bed length availablity.
2011 GMC Canyon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SHREVEPORT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LLR |
| Engine Size | 3.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 GMC Canyon Have?
Engine issues were less common but could occur, particularly with the inline-5 engines, which sometimes experienced head gasket failures. Transmission problems, such as rough shifting or slipping, were also reported, although less frequently. Electrical issues, including problems with the door lock actuators and window regulators, were also noted by some owners. Recalls for the 2011 Canyon were issued for concerns like potential fire hazards related to the fuel system.
Long-term reliability concerns mainly revolved around the aforementioned rust issues and the potential for costly repairs to the 4WD system or transmission as the vehicle aged. Proper maintenance, including regular fluid changes and rust prevention measures, could help mitigate some of these issues.
How long will the 2011 GMC Canyon last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited. ABS (Antilock Braking System) and stability control were standard, but advanced features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available.
Safety features included standard front airbags. Side-impact airbags were optional on some trims. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally showed moderate results. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings also reflected average performance for frontal offset and side-impact tests. Given its age, the Canyon lacks many of the modern safety technologies found in newer vehicles. The focus was primarily on fundamental safety systems rather than advanced driver aids.
The availability of features greatly depended on the chosen trim level and optional packages.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2011 GMC Canyon Prices and Market Value
The Canyon has depreciated significantly over time. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust being a major detractor), mileage, engine option (V8 models often command a premium), and whether it's a 4WD model. Vehicles with clean titles and documented maintenance records generally hold their value better.
2011 GMC Canyon Cost of Ownership
2011 GMC Canyon Fuel Efficiency
2011 GMC Canyon Safety Rating
NHTSA
2011 GMC Canyon Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 GMC Canyon Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; Truck?
Performance-wise, the Canyon's available V8 gave it an advantage over some competitors. However, the Tacoma generally offered better resale value and a more refined interior. Feature-wise, the Canyon was comparable to its rivals, although the Tacoma often had more available options.
Alternatives to the Canyon would include the Toyota Tacoma (for superior reliability and resale value), the Nissan Frontier (for a similar experience at a competitive price), or, potentially, a newer used Honda Ridgeline (for better ride quality and features, albeit at a higher price point). Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.
Ranks #391 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 391 | 2011 GMC Canyon | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 GMC Canyon a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; Truck?
WconnSec1 on April 1, 2021
Very nice truck. Looking forward to enjoying it.Very pleased so far!! Truck looks great and drives great. Cannot wait to put it to use. I would like to enjoy this vehicle for some time.
Bob-o on September 18, 2019
Gas hog. !!Gas Hog. I think the size of this truck should give me better gas mileage. I bought it from a GMC dealer in 2013 with 28K miles on it. Great reliable truck but it should get better then 12mpg in town. Maybe that's why the previous owner traded it in after only 1 year.
aisco on October 20, 2018
Excellent truckThis is my second GMC Canyon. I love the 5 cylinder engine and was sad when they re-tooled the design and got rid of it.
Czech89 on August 15, 2017
Exceptional all terrain truck!The GMC Canyon truck is the right size, offers flexibility for many uses, and is great to maintain. The body style is appealing and it has power too.
Bold Moves on August 15, 2012
Nice TRUCKTHE DEALER WAS GREAT AND HELPFUL. HE GAVE ME THE ALL THE INFORMATION TO MAKE MY CHOICE. NEVER PUSHY OR FELT PRESSURE LIKE YOUR NORMAL SALESMAN THANKS FOR THE NICE TRUCK.
Lefty on June 18, 2012
Biggest dissapointment I every had.Does not always start. GMC can't find the problem. Appears to be something to do with the fuel system. Fuel economy is terrible, about like the 50'S models. But it looks good setting in the driveway, or at Walmarts, or Home Depot, or the grocery store, or the gas pump....where ever it happens to be when it decides not to start. Only 3,000 miles.
WconnSec1 on April 1, 2021
Very nice truck. Looking forward to enjoying it.Very pleased so far!! Truck looks great and drives great. Cannot wait to put it to use. I would like to enjoy this vehicle for some time.
Bob-o on September 18, 2019
Gas hog. !!Gas Hog. I think the size of this truck should give me better gas mileage. I bought it from a GMC dealer in 2013 with 28K miles on it. Great reliable truck but it should get better then 12mpg in town. Maybe that's why the previous owner traded it in after only 1 year.
aisco on October 20, 2018
Excellent truckThis is my second GMC Canyon. I love the 5 cylinder engine and was sad when they re-tooled the design and got rid of it.
Czech89 on August 15, 2017
Exceptional all terrain truck!The GMC Canyon truck is the right size, offers flexibility for many uses, and is great to maintain. The body style is appealing and it has power too.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.