The Good
The 2016 GMC Canyon boasts a comfortable ride and a well-designed interior. Performance is adequate with multiple engine options, and fuel efficiency is competitive for the class. Its smaller size makes it easier to maneuver than full-size trucks, appealing to practical buyers. The available luxury features and attractive styling offer emotional appeal, providing a sense of capability and style.
The Bad
Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, particularly rough shifting. The base engine can feel underpowered, especially when towing. The interior plastics, while well-designed, may not feel as premium as some competitors. Be sure to thoroughly test drive and inspect the transmission before purchasing.
2016 GMC Canyon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L I4: 200 hp, 191 lb-ft of torque
- 3.6L V6: 305 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque
- 2.8L Duramax Turbodiesel I4: 181 hp, 369 lb-ft of torque
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5L I4: Up to 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (2WD)
- 3.6L V6: Up to 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (2WD)
- 2.8L Diesel: Up to 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (2WD)
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 2.5L I4: 9.3 seconds
- 3.6L V6: 6.8 seconds
- 2.8L Diesel: 9.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- 2.5L I4: Up to 3,500 lbs
- 3.6L V6: Up to 7,000 lbs
- 2.8L Diesel: Up to 7,700 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features include a 4.2-inch color display, rearview camera, and basic audio system.
- SL: Typically fleet only, very basic features.
- SLE: Adds features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, OnStar, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
- SLT: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and more premium features.
- All Terrain: Off-road focused with features like skid plates, off-road suspension, and unique styling cues.
2016 GMC Canyon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Extended Cab LB |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Small Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WENTZVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2059.31 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2721.55 kg |
| Overall Height | 178.56 cm |
| Overall Length | 539.5 cm |
| Overall Width | 188.72 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 325.88 cm |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $31,495 USD |
| Invoice Price | $29,920 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $925 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 GMC Canyon Have?
Recalls for the 2016 Canyon have included issues related to airbag deployment and potential fuel leaks. Checking the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is crucial to determine if any recalls apply. Long-term reliability can be a concern, particularly regarding the transmission. Addressing any transmission issues promptly and following recommended maintenance schedules can help mitigate potential problems. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle's service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.
How long will the 2016 GMC Canyon last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Optional features could include remote start, automatic climate control and various packages bundling comfort and convenience items.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally show favorable results, with overall scores typically ranging from four to five stars, depending on the cab configuration. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also conducts crash tests, and results for the 2016 Canyon should be reviewed for specific performance in different crash scenarios. It's worth noting that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2016, so comparing these features to those of newer vehicles is important.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 GMC Canyon Prices and Market Value
2016 GMC Canyon Cost of Ownership
2016 GMC Canyon Fuel Efficiency
2016 GMC Canyon Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 GMC Canyon Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2016 GMC Canyon Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 GMC Canyon Compare to Other Truck?
In terms of performance, the Canyon's V6 and diesel engines provide ample power, but the base engine can feel underpowered. The Canyon's interior design is generally considered more upscale than the Tacoma's and Frontier's. Reliability is a mixed bag, with the transmission being a potential weak point compared to the Tacoma.
Alternatives to the 2016 Canyon include the Toyota Tacoma (for reliability) and the Honda Ridgeline (for comfort and car-like handling). The Chevrolet Colorado is a very similar alternative. If reliability is a top priority, the Tacoma is a better choice. If comfort and unique features are desired, the Ridgeline is worth considering.
Ranks #352 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★) |
| 352 | 2016 GMC Canyon | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 GMC Canyon a Good Truck?
Commonman7mm on February 26, 2024
Great Pick-upBought this 2016 GMC Canyon (4cyl) at car max in 2017 . It was part of a commercial fleet and was well taken care of and low mileage . I’ve only have had one problem and that was in the engine cooling system where I had to replace two hoses and a goose neck . While repairing that I noticed an oil leak around the valve cover so I replaced the gasket . It was under warranty still ( just happened in Jan 2024 ) . I could have repaired it myself but who wants to get all dirty when it can be repaired by GMC at little or no cost to me. It still has 6 months remaining on warranty ( I did purchase from CarMax) hoping it does not need any further repairs . It is 8 years old and according to its records this is the first repair other than natural repair items that had ever been needed . It rides well pulls my utility trailer fully loaded just fine . I also have a 2000 Ranger that I had to replace the tranny on when it was just a few years old . It has never needed any other work. I believe the GMC will last me for years to come . But you never know so I will be buying another after market warranty on it when the time comes . I’ve already added that to a 2015 vehicle I own who’s warranty had expired . I’m a old school mechanic I can repair olde vehicles easily ( compared to todays ) I’m also a former Turbo Prop Mechanic from the Air Force and worked those motors for almost 29 years . I had worked on Piston Air Craft Motors for a few years before the change . A lot like a car piston motor in many ways . Two kinds of piston motors on Air Craft . Line a cars block or a receptacating motor( Round) . Very easy to trouble shoot vs Turbo Prop. Just letting you know that I have experience as a mechanic and know a real problem vehicle when I see one . Would buy a GMC canyon again or maybe go larger due to my new 42 foot long Camper I have rec bought .
R.T in Louisville on April 8, 2023
Reliable and Thrifty!Good MPG'S with the four cylinder, smooth 6 speed automatic transmission. Very good sound system with bluetooth. Very reliable, just oil changes and tire rotations. Would buy again!
Michael bent on April 6, 2023
Bad engineI just got this GMC Canyon for two weeks and the check engine light is on took in to three places and they don’t know what’s wrong with it
M on December 4, 2022
Touchscreen uselessFix the touch screen guys!!! 190k miles and still going but so many little things were kept to cheap when designing this thing. It's still moving and cruising so the 2.5L. Engine I can't knock it lol But next Gen. I pray will be a little more solid interior wise! Thanks
MYGMC on September 11, 2022
No longer a Toyota fanI was a Toyota owner for nearly 30 years, when I wanted to buy a new one their ridiculous pricing and snotty attitude drove me away.This truck has been great no problems what so ever.
Les Ismore on February 25, 2021
problematicIt's fairly good fuel mileage, around 20 avg. 4 cylinder engine is gutless, not enough power. 4wd still not working correctly after spending $1500 on it. Steve Landers Toyota sold it to me without servicing it as they should've. So I ended up buying a broke truck and still spending money on it .
MSMac on November 10, 2020
Great midsized truckSo far I love it. The interior could use some more storage options, but otherwise it's fantastic. The two-tone leather is beautiful. Good power for a midsize truck. With a K&N cold air intake I should be over 300hp which is plenty for my needs. I'm 6'3" and the cab is comfortable for me with an extra 3-4 inches of headroom. I'm very happy about the factory berliner, too. Great looking exterior. Overall a great truck.
D on August 2, 2020
From a Toyota to GMC CanyonI wanted to support our country so bought a GMC Canyon new in 2016 and have never regretted it. I have owned 3 Toyota trucks over the years. (All purchased new) and have been great truck's. But I'm supporting US made products from 2016 on. My GMC Canyon is the 4 door with Vinyl seats you would swear are leather and a 4 cyl engine 6 speed automatic transmission. It has never been in the shop for one problem. It has plenty of power for me even occasionally pulling my farm tractor 6,000 lbs on a flatbed trailer. I averaged 25 mpg driving empty on average. Very comfortable seats and very quiet smooth ride. Love the body style. I highly recommend this 4 cyl automatic configuration to anyone needing a truck that wants economy and not trying to kill it by over working it. But it will do everything I need it too do.
ArtTC on February 20, 2020
Great truck with lots of head room and power on .I am very pleased with the performance and mileage with this truck. It has plenty of options abdngreat towing capacity for a mid sized truck.
cdl on February 17, 2020
Would not buy again. Planning on trading.Styling is great with a number of comments, but reliability is sub-par. Transmission failure imminent with only 22K miles. Interior rattling of dashboard. Poor dealer support.
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.