There’s no question that owning a pickup truck can be extremely handy, however, some drivers are learning that you just don’t need a hulking 8,000 pound heavy-duty beast with 500 horsepower just to take the family on a camping trip or buy home repair items at the local hardware store. Enter the right-sized 2024 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado twins.
Similarities aside, this pair from General Motors also have some distinct differences that are worth exploring.
Key Takeaways
- Both trucks received a stunning clean-sheet redesign for the 2023 model year and still look and feel fresh today.
- The 2024 Chevy Colorado comes with a 237-horsepower engine, but buyers can opt to upgrade a 310-horsepower version, standard on select models.
- The 2024 GMC Canyon comes equipped solely with a robust 310-horsepower engine, regardless of trim level or options.
- The Canyon's upscale cabin has a bespoke instrument panel design, more premium materials, and differing accent pieces.
Towing Capacity
The entry level 2024 Chevy Colorado trucks like the WT and LT can tow 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Stepping up to models like the Trail Boss and Z71 (or other Colorados optioned with the more powerful engine), that maximum towing capacity jumps to 7,700 pounds.
Since the Canyon only comes with the more powerful engine, its towing capacity is also 7,700 pounds across the board, when properly equipped.
If you’re wondering, the off-road focused 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 splits the difference, with a 6,000 pound towing capacity. That’s also the case for GMC’s off-road battle wagon, the Canyon AT4X.
Is the 2024 Canyon more expensive than the 2024 Colorado
Yes, the 2024 GMC Canyon is more expensive, but you’re also getting more standard equipment and a more powerful base engine.
The price of the 2024 GMC Canyon begins at $37,595 and ranges up to $65,995 depending on the model.
- Elevation: starting at $37,595
- AT4: starting at $44,595
- Denali: starting at $52,595
- AT4X: starting at $55,895
- AT4X AEV: starting at $65,995
In contrast, the 2024 Chevy Colorado starts at $31,095 and tops out at $60,540 depending on the model selected.
- WT: starting at $31,095
- LT: starting at $33,495
- Trail Boss: starting at $38,895
- Z71: starting at $41,795
- ZR2: starting at $48,395
- ZR2 Bison: starting at $60,540
Note that the prices listed for both the 2024 GMC Canyon and 2024 Chevy Colorado include a mandatory destination fee.
Infotainment and technology
Both of these competent midsize trucks have similar technology. All 2024 Chevy Colorado trucks and GMC Canyons get an 11.3-inch touchscreen, regardless of trim level. While perhaps expected on the upscale Canyon, that generous standard screen size is great news for entry-level Colorado buyers. Similarly, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are included on both trucks across the board, as are driver assist features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams.
Any differences in fuel economy?
The Canyon’s fuel economy is EPA-estimated 18 miles per gallon in the city and 23 mpg on highway or 17 mpg/21 mpg for the four-wheel drive versions.
Chevy Colorados that are equipped with the less powerful engine do a little better at 20 mpg city and 25 mpg on the highway. Colorados with four-wheel drive earn an EPA estimated 19 mpg city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Note that when the Colorado is equipped with the 310-horsepower engine, which is the same as all GMC Canyons, so too will fuel economy be identical to the Canyon.
Summary
For a well-equipped new truck that represents great value and is ideal for cruising all around our great state of Florida, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado is a natural choice. However, if a slightly more upscale cabin, distinctive good looks, and more standard equipment is what you’re after, the 2024 GMC Canyon is also a strong contender.
Fortunately, here at Alan Jay we’re lucky enough to carry both of these highly anticipated vehicles, so call, click, or stop by today to review which one is perfect for your needs and wants.