On or off road with the GMC Canyon AT4 I realize that its built to get the job done and done in style. The small Truck packs a punch with a 308 hp 3.6L V6 engine or available 369 lb-ft of torque with the 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel engine. Its made for potential owners that don't need something as bit as the Silverado but with enough punch to get respect,
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PERFORMANCE
We were able to test the acceleration: 0 to 60 mph in about 6.92 seconds, about the same with other midsize trucks in its segment. But it was quick. The turning ratio was really impressive - as you can see, it’s tight, agile and grips that road like glue. I could do this all day. Let's hit the streets.
Powered by a best-in-class 308 horsepower 3.6L V6 engine, the AT4 gets additional power from an available 2.8L Diesel engine, offering 369 lb-ft of torque. It's made for off-road adventures with that off-road-oriented suspension, but it delivers in the streets as well. The ride is surprisingly relaxing, smooth - and this is a pickup truck. The chassis feels grounded and the steering poised. A two-speed transfer case comes standard on the AT4. Standard equipment also includes:
Off-road tuned suspension with Advanced Hill Descent Control System
Greater capability from 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac® tires fitted to 17-inch aluminum wheels
Four-wheel drive system with Eaton G80 Rear Automatic Locking Differential.
20-inch Goodyear® all-terrain tires
Traction Select System with off-road mode
From a driver's perspective. I’ve got ample headroom, legroom and total body comfort and maneuverability. The gauges and controls are easy to operate and within reach comfortably, simple, unsophisticated and clean
INTERIOR
Step inside. The layout is clean, simple and easy to navigate with a basic dash and center stack that features the 8 inch infotainment screen. Looking closer, large air vents are positioned on the left, mode controls underneath. That hood shelf looms over the speedometer and tachometer with additional readouts for the driver are easy to read. The steering wheel, like most vehicles carry cruise control options, phone and media info. The steering wheel has leather with stitching and its very sporty. The middle-control center has strategically placed air vents on either side and various options from audio, phone, air and navigation. Climate control with knobs are at the bottom. Various other settings relating to your air conditioning and controls give you ample ventilation and circulation. Those are combinations of push buttons and knobs controlling the intensity of your air flow.
Then you've got your drive mode options for various kinds of road conditions. For example, the towing options are there for challenging & uneven roads and even cab lighting. You've got seat air ventilation; cooling or heating settings as well. Its USB charger ports are tucked away to use when needed and there's a place for storage underneath.
The stick is basic and functional with your parking, reverse, neutral and drive with a classy leather frame on the bottom and places to store two cups and trimming around that middle area as well as a place to store your phone and to charge it. The AT-4 badging is prevalent on the headrest which is pretty cool. The sports bucket seats are comfortable and hug nicely during the ride. The door design is simple but solid with gloss framing controls where they should be. Down below, more places to store items and speakers right there in the corner for more great sound. Both front and back seats have armrests but the back seats give the passengers a center armrest that also can be used to store two cups or soft drinks and USB ports. By the way there's a spot to store documents and minor items behind the seat
EXTERIOR DESIGN
Its a handsome vehicle with a strong but slightly aerodynamic stance, The side profile says it all, it's tight and leans forward. Creating a truck that is aerodynamic takes though and design creativity. You can see how the windows sweep back to the rear wheels. In the back, owners have a place to plant your feet in so you can climb into the back cab. That's convenient.
THE VERDICT
Delivering a quick and solid ride complimented by a polished, refined powertrain and a surprisingly quiet cabin, the Canyon AT4 arrives at base price of $39,595 and the wonderfully loaded edition we tested is priced at around $45,980; a competitive deal for truck buyers in the market.
T. Lesesne, AutoFOCUS WORLD TEST DRIVE