2019 GMC Canyon Monterey
Monterey GMC Drivers Test Drive The New 2019 GMC Canyon
The 2019 GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup that’s perfect for anyone who needs the utility of a truck but doesn’t necessarily need a full-sized model. The Canyon is smaller than a full-sized truck, making it more maneuverable. It’s also less expensive than its larger cousins. In addition to costing less at the dealership, a midsize pickup will also save some money at the gas pump, since they provide greater fuel economy. These are some of the things that Monterey GMC drivers are looking for, which is why the Canyon is such a popular model.
Another thing the Canyon is known for among Monterey GMC shoppers is its excellent road manners. The ride is smooth, and the driver and passengers will stay comfortable, even on longer trips. There’s a wide array of the most up-to-date technology features, too. The three engine choices provide lots of power, so you’ll be able to tow a boat or a trailer with ease. The 2019 GMC Canyon has a lot in common with the 2019 Chevy Colorado, but the Canyon has sharper styling than the Colorado.
Like many modern midsize crossovers, the 2019 GMC Acadia has a four-cylinder unit as its standard powerplant. In the GMC's case it's a 2.5-liter inline-four producing 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. For those who prefer the additional power of a V6, the Acadia is also available with a 3.6-liter engine that makes 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The Acadia SL isn’t available with the V6, but all other models in the lineup can get this engine.
There are a few changes for 2019. The infotainment system is now more user-friendly, thanks to its new simpler interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now come standard, as does a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, a cloud-connected navigation system, automatic software updates and upgraded voice recognition. All trim levels except the base have a digital rear-vision camera. Finally, the 2019 Canyon gets a few new color choices: Dark Sky Metallic, Smokey Quartz Metallic, Sedona Metallic and Blue Emerald Metallic.
There's no such thing as a really basic model in the 2019 GMC Acadia lineup. Even the entry level SL trim gets a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, 17-inch alloy wheels, tri-zone automatic climate control and seven seats. At the other end of the spectrum, Denali is now becoming a byword for luxury and the 2019 GMC Acadia Denali is every bit as opulent, comfortable and well-equipped as some genuine luxury rivals costing considerably more. The Denali gets bright Denali-specific exterior accents, unique Denali interior appointments, heated and ventilated front seats, full leather upholstery, an automatic heated steering wheel, a hands-free power-programmable liftgate and much, much more.
Consumer Guide wrote: “The GMC Canyon (along with its slightly less-ritzy cousin, the Chevrolet Colorado) offers up-to-date technology features and excellent all-around refinement, along with some options that its competitors can’t match.”
Buyers can get the 2019 GMC Canyon in extended cab and crew cab body styles. The extended cab models can seat two or four passengers and the crew cabs seat five. Extended cabs get a standard 6-foot-2-inch bed, while the crew cab models can choose between a standard bed or an available 5-foot-2-inch bed. The large bed makes carrying items up to 8-feet long easy, while the rear step integrated into the bumper facilitates getting in and out of the bed.
The Canyon comes in six trim levels, called SL, base Canyon, SLE, All Terrain, SLT and Denali. There are three engines on offer. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit generates 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, connected to a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional six-speed automatic. There’s a 3.6-liter V6 engine that puts out 308 hp and 275 lb-ft, matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The last engine choice is a 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that makes 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, teamed to a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Safety is an important consideration when buying a new vehicle. Buyers will have the confidence that comes with knowing the IIHS gave the 2019 GMC Canyon its highest rating of Good in all five crash tests.