
Stylistic Differences
There’s no aspect that differentiates the GMC Canyon from the Chevy Colorado more than the exterior. The two trucks share a similar silhouette, a forward-leaning stance, and a high bed, but when style counts, the Colorado tends to suffer. The iconic Chevy bowtie is about all that really stands out about its looks – it’s not an unpleasant design, but next to the GMC Canyon, it’s somewhat plain and forgettable.
That’s because the GMC Canyon is styled with bold, beefy bodylines that make it look the part of a “small Sierra.” A large grille, blocky front features, and pronounced styling around the wheel wells project the strength that’s contained within the highly capable V6 and diesel powertrains. It’s like the difference between a dress shirt and a long-sleeved T-shirt – they both get the job done, and the T-shirt is less expensive, but it’s the dress shirt that you’ll want to wear to an interview or a first date.
Peak Trim – Unique Personalities
If the appearance of a Canyon next to the Colorado is like a dress shirt next to a T-shirt, looking at the peak Denali and the ZR2 is like a fine suite next to a football uniform. The Colorado ZR2 is an off-roading machine, with a wider stance and lifted ride height to fit the part. Modified front and rear bumpers, skid plates, a pair of off-road sport bars, and a seriously aggressive grille and hood bulge communicate very effectively that this is a vehicle built for the unbeaten path. The ZR2 starts at $41,400 and suffers reduced fuel efficiency thanks to the larger cross-section it presents, but if off-roading is your thing, this truck is a king.
On the other side of the equation is the Canyon Denali, but it’s not tuned for off-roading (the All Terrain trim offers that). No, the Denali is all about comfort and style, about looking and feeling as expensive as it is (although with an MSRP $40,500 it is actually a bit less than the Colorado ZR2). On the outside, that means chrome – lots and lots of chrome. The grille, door handles, side mirrors, front air dam, side steps, exhaust tips, you name it, it comes in chrome. Like an athlete in a three-piece suit, the Canyon Denali looks tough and refined, an uncompromising take on the midsize truck.