GMC Previews Next-Generation Canyon, New Off-Road AT4X Model
Was it truly a surprise to anyone? Midsize off-road aficionados have been clamoring for a GMC Canyon comparable since the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 made its debut in 2017 as its mechanical twin. Since then, GMC has expanded its inventory with the Canyon AT4 (for 2021), as well as an off-road performance package that upgrades the Canyon AT4's already-capable design with a little raise, larger tires, rock rails, and other features. Then, at the 2021 Overland Expo Mountain West event, the business unveiled the amazing Canyon AT4 OverlandX concept, and the desire for a more potent Canyon only intensified.
Following the successful debut of the Hummer EV, GMC has revealed a few teaser photos of what it is calling "the next-generation" Canyon. This new Canyon AT4X off-road trim might be the answer to GMC Canyon fans' prayers.
2023 GMC Canyon AT4X Off-Road Hardware
Despite the preview image's seeming limitations, there is still a lot to be learned from it. First and foremost, there are the 17-inch Beadlock-capable wheels. The Beadlock rings must be purchased separately by end users, as with other businesses that have sold wheels with Beadlock capabilities. The Colorado ZR2's stainless steel rock rails are likely also installed on the vehicle to protect the rockers from damage when off-road. The excellent Goodyear Wrangler Territory M/T tires are an upgrade from the ZR2's Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires. The size of the tires, however, remains unknown. The 2022 Sierra 1500 AT4X will be equipped with 32.5-inch 265/70R18 tires as opposed to the current Colorado ZR2's 30.5-inch 265/65R17 tires. Even the 2022 Yukon AT4 has a 33-inch tire, so we're optimistic that the Canyon AT4X will as well, but we're not holding our breath.
"A new benchmark in high-end off-road performance, AT4X is supported by significant capabilities and unwavering improvements. The AT4X trim, which debuted on the 2022 GMC Sierra, is the off-road-optimized development of GMC's steadily growing AT4 sub-brand."
What the Canyon AT4X is concealing behind its exterior is less clear. We would wager big money that the excellent Multimatic DSSV dampers will be used to dampen the 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X based on what we know about the current ZR2 and AT4X ranges. We also hazard a bet that the vehicle will have electronic locking differentials in both the front and back. It's also fair to presume that the Canyon AT4X will have a track width increase of 3.5 inches and a ride height rise of 2.0 inches like the Colorado ZR2. A complete skid plate kit, a trailer hitch as standard equipment, and of course red front tow hooks should also be included with the vehicle.
What Engine And Transmission Will The 2023 Canyon AT4X Have?
We are particularly intrigued by GMC's claim that this vehicle is "next-generation." The current Canyon has undergone nothing more than cosmetic modifications since it initially went on sale as a 2015 model (after being modified for the U.S. market from a worldwide pickup that had previously been available for some time, therefore making it even older). Currently, GMC offers a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel with 369 lb-ft of torque and a 3.6-liter gas V-6 with 308 horsepower. For the upcoming 2023 GMC Canyon, either of these engines would be a viable choice, but we believe this vehicle will receive more power in the future.
According to rumors, GM will stop using the 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine for the next Colorado and Canyon models as a result of the closure of its Thailand assembly factory. We'd surely be happy to see the company's turbocharged 2.7-liter gasoline I-4 engine make its home in the midsize Canyon for 2023, according to rumors. We would be even delighted if the engine was mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Is The 2023 GMC Canyon Really All-New?
The GMC Canyon needs a revamp, and that is an understatement. It's not that the vehicle is horrible; rather, technology has advanced significantly in the past seven years. We can be certain that this is the full refresh we've been waiting for if we carefully examine the oblique shot GMC supplied. Both doors and the front fenders look to have entirely different profiles from the existing 2022 model. The installation of a 360-degree camera system is also hinted at by what looks to be a camera nub on the bottom of the side view mirror that is concealed in the detailing. The keyless entry button, which is standard on other GMC vehicles, has also been included.
When Can We See The 2023 GMC Canyon For Real?
On August 11, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. ET, GMC will make its premiere of the 2023 GMC Canyon. We'll see the AT4X Edition 1 package then, as confirmed by GMC. It is possible to reserve the AT4X Edition 1 at launch. We anticipate that the updated Canyon will go on sale to the general public towards the end of 2022 and that the AT4X will arrive on dealer lots in the spring of 2023. Remain tuned.