The GMC Canyon received a light update for the 2021 model year, ushering in the seventh model year of the nameplate’s second generation. Although the update is as close to a mid-cycle refresh as it gets, it’s not an official refresh, but rather a light update that includes changes to the model lineup, exterior design, interior, and technology. That includes updates for the new 2021 GMC Canyon Denali as well, as seen in the following real-world photos.
While the 2021 GMC Canyon Denali is already in dealers in limited quantities, this is our first look at the 2021 GMC Canyon Denali out on the road.
One of the most noteworthy updates can be found in the frontend, where the 2021 GMC Canyon Denali is equipped with a new trim-specific grille treatment with a more sculpted, layered design. The grille is segmented into three individual sections, and comes with a chiseled border that adds extra character to the pickup’s fascia.
The new 2021 GMC Canyon Denali also features five-inch chrome assist steps, signature chrome accents, and Denali-exclusive 20-inch Diamond Cut aluminum wheels, all of which help to modernize the pickup’s styling and more closely align it with the new GMC Sierra and GMC Sierra HD pickup trucks.
Inside the cabin, the 2021 GMC Canyon Denali features refinements like authentic open-pore ash wood trim, aluminum decor, unique stitching, and standard heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a heated steering wheel.
With regard to motivation, the 2021 GMC Canyon is offered with two powertrain options, including the naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 LGZ gas engine, which produces 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque and connects to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the 2.8L I4 LWN turbodiesel Duramax, which produces 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque and connects to a six-speed automatic transmission.
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Comments
I think GM is making a mistake keeping the 8speed trans for this refresh. Perfect opportunity to swap in the 10speed. I also think the 2.7T should replace the 3.6L as the powerhouse engine option. It will easily outperform the V6 and paired with a 10speed would be better on fuel.
My guess is that we will see at least 1 or maybe both of your suggestions in the next generation of the mid-sizers. Swapping out a complete drivetrain is something typically done for the next gen vehicle, not a mid cycle refresh.
We might see the opportunity of a 10 Speed for the 2023 Model Year when this truck actually gets overhauled, it’s also a sure bet that there will be no additional updates for the year 2022 other than a possible new Exeterior Paint Color for this truck. Other than a Nose Job, GM is probably done spending any additional money on this particular model.
Headlights and taillights were needed with this update also, they still use halogens in the projectors… just looks silly with the LED foglights. Why not give it some LED headlights also? I don’t mind the V6, increase the torque and horsepower and I think we’re fine to be honest.
The 2.7 and a 10 speed are coming in about a year and a half. It would be nuts to reengineer this model at high expense for that short of a time.
You have to do a lip or of work and epa testing to drop either in this truck. Also if they have to modify the trans tunnel you have to do new crash testing.
The next model would use this combo long enough to be very profitable,
As for the head lamps the Canyon lamps work well. I have LED in one GMC and Halogen in the Canyon and to be honest both work as well the other in this case. I have never been left wanting more light.
In fact I get brighter often with what I have now and they are aligned at stock height. I saw numbers on the lights once from a test and the Canyon housings work better than the Colorado housings.
This truck did get a mid cycle engine upgrade in 17 with a totally new V6. No more chain issues or carbon issues.
I love my V6 as it has plenty of power. I added a tune and a cold air intake and it is a beast now. For a V6 it actually sounds pretty good. I have nothing against the 2.7, but I hope they leave the V6 as an option.
i just checked epa mpg. numbers show a silverado rated highway 24 mpg. /5.3 ltr. and the 2.7 ltr. /22mpg. so anything is possible but with that 2.7 in a colorada i dont see any significant gain in mpg over the 3.6 highway driving…. it will be interesting
I see they changed the plastic wood trim to real wood like other Denali models.