The 2026 GMC Canyon ushers in the fourth model year for the mid-size pickup’s third generation, offering up a few modest, yet noteworthy updates. The changes focus primarily on aesthetics and customization options, and include a pair of new wheels. Now, GM Authority is taking a closer look at the new wheels on offer for the 2026 GMC Canyon.
Both of the new 2026 Canyon wheels are 18 inches in diameter, and will be available as standard equipment on specific trim levels. Kicking things off are the new 18-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels (RPO code QE1) for the Canyon Elevation, which replace the 18-inch Dark Gray Painted aluminum wheels (RPO code RQ8) equipped as standard previously. Meanwhile, the Canyon AT4 will now ride on the 18-inch Gloss Black machined finish aluminum wheels (RPO code QE2), which will take the place of the 18-inch Dark Gray machined finish aluminum wheel (RPO code RQL) equipped previously.
As of this writing (7/2/2025), GM has yet to release any official imagery of either new wheel design.
18-inch Dark Gray machined finish aluminum wheel (RQL)
Beyond the cosmetic changes, GMC is also making a few tweaks to the trim level cadence, specifically the AT4X. With the debut of the 2026 model year, the GMC Canyon AT4X will once again be available as a standalone trim level, reversing a brief change made for the 2025 model year, during which the AT4X was offered as a package upgrade for the AT4. Offering the AT4X as a standalone trim brings the 2026 Canyon back in sync with the 2023 and 2024 model years, positioning the AT4X as a more premium and capable variant above the base AT4, rather than as a package.
Meanwhile, the AT4X AEV Edition (RPO code XEV) will once again be available as an optional upgrade, enhancing the Canyon’s off-road credentials with a selection of components sourced from American Expedition Vehicles.
Under the hood, all 2026 GMC Canyon models are motivated by the TurboMax 2.7L I4 L3B gasoline engine, which delivers 310 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 430 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. The L3B is paired exclusively with the GM eight-speed automatic transmission. Under the skin, the third-gen Canyon lineup rides on the updated GMT 31XX platform, while vehicle assembly takes place at the GM Wentzville Assembly plant in Missouri.
Comments
Black wheels are almost always ugly.
I don’t care about wheels, bring back the V6 option. The Canyon and Colorado should have more than one engine choice.
So you want a car based V6 with no torque and needs to rev to move? Yeah, tell us you aren’t a truck guy and don’t use it as such without actually telling us…