The Good
The 2012 GMC Canyon offers a blend of practicality and capability. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver, while the available V6 engine provides adequate power for towing and hauling. It's an affordable option for buyers needing truck utility without the bulk and cost of a full-size pickup. The rugged design can also appeal to those who appreciate a traditional truck aesthetic.
The Bad
The 2012 GMC Canyon has known weaknesses including a somewhat dated interior with hard plastics. Fuel economy, especially with the larger engines, can be underwhelming. Some owners have reported issues with the four-wheel-drive system and premature rust, so careful inspection is essential before purchase. The base engine can feel underpowered for some tasks.
2012 GMC Canyon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.9L Inline-4: Produces around 185 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.7L Inline-5: Produces around 242 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.3L V8 (available on some models): Produces around 300 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.
- 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: 15 MPG city / 21 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- Varies greatly depending on engine and configuration; expect around 9-10 seconds for the I4, 7-8 seconds for the I5, and under 7 seconds for the V8.
- Towing Capacity (if applicable):
- Ranging from approximately 4,000 lbs to 6,000 lbs depending on engine, cab configuration, and drivetrain. The V8 models offer the highest towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Vinyl seating, basic AM/FM radio, manual windows and locks.
- SLE: Cloth seating, air conditioning, power windows and locks, upgraded audio system.
- SLT: Leather seating, automatic climate control, premium audio system, alloy wheels.
- Z71 (Off-Road Package): Off-road suspension, skid plates, specific tires, and appearance upgrades.
2012 GMC Canyon Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | GMC |
Model | Canyon |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Truck |
Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | SHREVEPORT |
Dimensions
Doors | 2-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2H0 |
Engine Size | 1.8L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic overdrive |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
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
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 GMC Canyon Have?
How long will the 2012 GMC Canyon last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Entertainment options were similarly modest, with upgrades primarily focused on audio systems.
Safety features included standard front airbags. Side airbags were optional. Crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA vary depending on the cab configuration. The NHTSA gave the 2012 Canyon a mix of 4- and 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests, while rollover ratings were typically lower. The IIHS ratings should be checked for specific cab styles.
Optional features could include OnStar, which provided services like automatic crash notification and roadside assistance. However, even with these optional features, the 2012 Canyon lacks the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) found in newer vehicles, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 GMC Canyon Prices and Market Value
2012 GMC Canyon Cost of Ownership
2012 GMC Canyon Fuel Efficiency
2012 GMC Canyon Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 GMC Canyon Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hood:latch
Seat Belts:front
2012 GMC Canyon Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 GMC Canyon Compare to Other Truck?
In terms of performance, the Canyon's V8 option gives it an edge in towing compared to some competitors' base engines. However, the Tacoma generally has better off-road performance. Feature-wise, the Canyon is fairly basic compared to newer models from its rivals.
Alternatives to the Canyon include a used Toyota Tacoma (for superior reliability and resale value, if budget allows) or a Nissan Frontier (for a similar experience at a potentially lower price). If off-roading is a priority, the Tacoma is the better choice. If budget is a primary concern, the Canyon or Frontier offer decent value, but a thorough inspection is crucial before purchase.
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10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0β ) |
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384 | 2012 GMC Canyon | (4.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 GMC Canyon a Good Truck?
Darrel In A J on March 27, 2023
GMC 2012 Canyon Holds Up WellI bought this truck new, mfg Mar 2012. It was still on the dealer lot Feb 2013, only 50 miles on it. A few minor repairs, had to replace the in dash entertainment unit due to burnt out bulbs, also having burnt out dash bulbs, headlight switch, drivers door switch panel / cluster. A few minor bugs during the first 30,000 but under warranty so not a cost issue. The " soft brake pedal " issue was resolved very early on by having the dealer replace the master cylinder. The only real problem is the " Passlock " security issue, once in a great while the truck will not start, somehow " it thinks " it has been tampered with / broken into, the small red car / lock dash light will be on, the indicator is on the right / bottom of the speed indicator. If you turn the key on, then off and wait 10 minuets then it starts fine, this has happened even while parked in the garage overnight, so I know for sure the vehicle has not been tampered with. This is a known GMC defect if you search on the internet and a forced recall should be done about it. The truck has a very nice and smooth ride, the 5 cylinder has plenty of power, highways and mountain roads are no issues at all, when I did replace the tires I purchased a premium 80,000 mile for a better and smooth ride, I still have the original shocks on it I now have 150000 miles on it, I follow the maintenance suggestions closely, well taken care of, I always get looks and complements where ever I go. The dealer I purchased from sucks ( Earnhart ) so I have to use another GMC dealer, and GM / GMC corporate was no help either, customer support sucks. Overall if you have one of these older Canyons or Colorados and you drive it normally and follow the maintenance you should get a long life from it, I use a premium oil and filter, change the air filter every 10,000 and keep up with the other fluids, I still have the original brakes on it, using a good / high cost premium wax every year and a light touch up every six months has kept it looking like new. The new and overhauled 2015 models seem nice, I may look at those if I ever need to replace this one.
WhiteHobo on November 26, 2022
2012 GMC Canyon inline 5Well I bought a 1year old 2012 4 door with the inline 5 it had just about 16k on the dash when I took it home and this truck has been worth every penny that I spent in it . I've had No major issues with it other than I had to put a water pump on it and basic maintenance. It's a smaller truck, but I can put my whole family in it with all of my grandsons toys and his car seat and we all are comfy. The truck cleans up really nice and I still get occasional compliments on how nice it Looks So if your looking for a smaller truck with a smaller price tag then give the ol' Canyon a shot.
KiltedTailor on March 13, 2020
A fine 'no frills to break' truckOk Readers looking for a used GMC Canyon truck, read on. I bought this 04 door SLE model used. It has a towing package and a chrome upgrade, and the odd 05 cylinder engine. I have had it 04 years, and just now replaced the traction control components. That is all the 'big work' of repairs its needed. Its a good size, very useful, and rides well. It does seem to 'list to port' a bit on level ground, reasons unknown, but common for the brand. I have ZERO complaints of it. It is far and away better than the Scion Xb I used to drive!
Cj on October 8, 2019
Great size for our needsGreat size and met our needs for hauling a trailer. Perfect for our family and out door sports events. Good on gas mileage and east to drive
Richard on January 17, 2019
Very happyLast two trucks were Chevy put 327,000 on one. 190000 on the other. Hope to have the same luck with the GMC Canyon love the four doors
Dennis T. on December 19, 2018
Best truck that I ever owned.I have 172,000 miles on it; I have owned it for 6.5 years. I still have the original brakes on it. I get 25-26 mpg highway. I got 137,000 mile on tires that are rated for 60,000 miles. It has 2.9L 4 cylinder engine. ItΓΒ’Γ’β¬ÒβΒ’s a great truck to drive on highway, and It got a lot of highway miles on it. I use for work, and I put about 600 miles on it per week.
Rasmus Kimball on October 13, 2018
I love these trucks.I've owned both a Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. Both with the 3.7 Inline 5. They're fun trucks. Very reliable. Can't imagine how fun the V8 model is.
Fixer on May 28, 2018
Loaded 2012 GMC CanyonCar was loaded with options at last 2012 run. Has a lot of accessories. Has H3 5L engine. Back seats are tight. It came with GMC bed liner.
Foxwalker on July 15, 2016
With a few minor things, exactly what I needed!My wife and I were longing to return to owning a truck again, but living in Norther Virginia and having to drive into DC, and park in Garages kinda crushed the idea of a 2500 diesel. I must say, for what it is, what it cost, I love it! I love that the interior is not covered in fake wood, there is no multimedia screen, and that it sounds/rides like a small truck should. Spending weekends hauling 1k lbs of rock, and seeing no issue at all. We just took a short road trip on it and without a bed cover we were able to get 27mpg...WOW...say what you want about the I5 engine, but I really like it. For a "city truck" as my wife calls it, It is awesome. The cruise control is solid. Now, like my wife's prior truck, this thing does not like being started up and driven immediately, in fact I would say a minute of idling is what I do, otherwise you are dealing with a rough sound for a short time as she warms up. I love being able to toss my kayak in the back, or quickly take my mountain bike over to the single track without having to lift either item over my head to the top of the subaru I replaced! Ok, now the gripes, which I understand the 2015/16s have addressed. The crew cab seats, while fine as seats, fold in a completely illogical way. The seat backs fold forward, vs the bench folding up. I can see NO advantage to this, minus cramming various items like rope and tarps behind it. I have the "bench" front seat, and the flip down center armrest is very cheaply made and the cup holders are not very well designed. I know I said I like simple, and It is. My last thing is just trim line specific, I wish it had a sliding back window.
Grouchy on August 14, 2015
Great truckOwn the 2012 4WD crew cab; auto 4 speed 5 cylinder. I use it 70% as a car, 30% as a light duty truck. It is very comfortable to drive and has all the power needed. I haul plywood, rocks, etc. Never any kind of problem except tires and normal maintenance. MPG is about 21 overall. The interior is functional, not frilly. Big knobs on the controls and laid out sensibly. Turning radius is my only gripe, but it isn't so bad once you are used to it. It should last me a long time and I would definitely recommend it.