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Starting at
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| 181 - 308 | Horsepower (hp) | 159 - 278 |
| 191 - 369 | Torque (lb-ft) | 180 - 265 |
| 23 | Fuel Economy (mpg combined) | 21 |
The midsize pickup market is filled with ambitious entries. For the 2021 model year, the GMC Canyon and Toyota Tacoma include a variety of all-new features and updates. In the midsize category of pickups, the Canyon and Tacoma come fully equipped with plenty of convenient and performance features that make them competitive choices in the modern market. But which one is better in the face-off between the 2021 GMC Canyon vs 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The two midsize trucks have their share of similarities and differences. Both models come with a standard inline-4 engine for efficiency and affordability, but they can be outfitted with V6 engines and have specialized off-roading trims. However, the GMC Canyon takes the lead in several key areas, offering more power, higher tow ratings, and even an optional turbo-diesel engine. While the Tacoma may be the most common midsize truck, the Canyon comes with an unmatched combination of professional-grade performance and premium features.
When it comes to horsepower and torque, you need a midsize pickup that delivers in spades. The 2021 GMC Canyon comes with three different powertrain options, starting with a standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder equipped with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing for fuel optimization. The 2.5-liter produces 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque, which is nearing the output of some older V6 engines. If you're working with a budget and want something affordable and reliable, this is a good way to go.
Further up the chain is the 2.8-liter turbocharged Duramax 4-cylinder diesel that pushes out 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This is perfect for those who need a fuel-saving option that's also finely tuned for towing, off-road trails, or hauling heavy cargo. For a fine mix of off-the-line performance and mid-range torque, the 3.6-liter V6 is a perfect option. It sports 308 horsepower with 275 pound-feet of torque.
Most of the GMC Canyon trims come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission, but the V6 comes with an even more capable 8-speed automatic. An Autotrac 2-speed transfer case and automatic locking rear differential also come standard for the majority of the trims, along with electronic traction control. Available skid plates and a performance air intake system can help elevate the off-road capabilities of Canyon for those who want it.
On the side of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, the midsize pickup only comes with two powertrain options. There's a 4-cylinder 2.7-liter engine with variable valve timing to help conserve fuel that produces 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. If you need more heft out of your midsize pickup, the Tacoma offers prospective truck shoppers a 3.5-liter V6 engine to placate the power-hungry. The Toyota V6 delivers 278 horsepower and up to 265 pound-feet of torque, which is noticeably less than GMC's V6 option.
The Tacoma rounds out its powertrain offerings with a 6-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission, with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations. The four-wheel drive also comes with an electronically controlled transfer case and an automatic limited-slip differential for maximum traction stability.
The Tacoma largely lags behind the rest of the midsize category when it comes to power output, and it doesn't quite stand up well against the Canyon's powertrain capabilities. By comparison, the Canyon runs circles around the Tacoma when it comes to raw horsepower and torque. Regardless of which powertrain option you go with for the Canyon, you get better overall performance compared to the Tacoma.
Off-roading is probably where the Tacoma shines brightest, with its off-road capabilities. The TRD Pro trim is specifically designed to handle many of the hardships and harshness that mother nature can throw at it. The Tacoma manages to mitigate slippage and enhance traction thanks to its Multi-Terrain Select module and the crawl control mechanism for off-road traversal. Additional off-road capabilities include hill start assist, skid plates, and an electronically controlled locking rear differential to help with maximizing torque to the rear wheels.
The Tacoma really performs with the optional Bilstein or FOX shock absorbers to help dampen the shunts and jolts encountered during off-road travel. With the addition of front and rear stabilizer bars, as well as coil-spring double-wishbone front suspension and leaf-spring rear suspension with staggered outboard mounted gas-shock absorbers, the Tacoma is more than ready for most off-road challenges. Variable assisted power steering and power-assisted ventilated disc brakes with a rear tandem booster from Star Safety System ensure that the Tacoma is quite capable of stopping on a dime - although the standard rear drum brakes are certainly obsolescent at best.
The 2021 GMC Canyon is also thoroughly designed to accommodate off-road adventures. StabiliTrak electronically handles stability and traction control on the Canyon. The system automatically adjusts brake pressure and torque distribution based on multiple sensors to help the wheels maintain maximum grip on the road. Electric power-assisted steering also comes standard, along with an off-road package for the Canyon's off-road-ready trim, the AT4.
In addition to the skid plates and the AutoTrac transfer case, the Canyon also comes with a transfer case shield to protect the underbody from debris or other objects that may kick up into the undercarriage. Available performance skid plates and a diesel exhaust brake can help increase the off-road experience. Alternatively, if you go with the non-diesel powertrain, a factory cat-back performance exhaust system is available. And, of course, every trim of the Canyon has standard four-wheel disc brakes.
While they may be smaller than full-size trucks, modern midsize pickups usually do a good job providing for the comfort and entertainment of their passengers. When it comes to the 2021 GMC Canyon vs 2021 Toyota Tacoma, both trucks offer an assortment of noteworthy features. There is plenty to absorb when it comes to safety and convenience.
The Tacoma has an available 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Premium audio and dynamic navigation are also available with the premium trims. However, the Canyon includes the same features. GMC's smallest truck also makes SiriusXM satellite radio and a 4G WiFi hotspot standard across almost all trims, along with GMC Connected Access, OnStar connectivity, and the suite of tech features that come with the GMC Infotainment System.
Both of these trucks offer the choice between a four-door crew cab and a two-row access cab. However, the GMC Canyon provides a roomier interior. No matter the cab choice, the Tacoma features 39.7 inches of headroom and 42.9 inches of legroom up in the front, while Canyon gives you 41.4 inches of headroom and 45 inches of legroom. That difference continues in the rear seats, with the Canyon offering 3 inches more legroom in the crew cab and 4 inches more in the access cab.
When it comes to bed length, the average bed size of the Canyon again offers you more space than the Tacoma. The short bed for the Canyon clocks in at 61.7 inches, whereas the Tacoma's short bed measures 60.5 inches. The long bed of the Canyon is 74 inches, whereas the Tacoma's long bed is 73.7 inches. What's more, is that the Canyon manages a 7,700-pound tow rating compared to the Tacoma's 6,800-pound tow rating. This clearly gives the benefit of capacity to the Canyon, which takes the lead over its midsize pickup truck counterpart across nearly every category.
When you need the best selection of GMC trucks and SUVs, you need to visit the best dealership in the region, Rick Hendrick Buick GMC of Duluth. We have all-new model years in stock, as well as Certified Pre-Owned GMCs. We also have reliable used vehicles available for under $10,000. We're all about choices, and we give shoppers plenty of options in how to buy and what to buy.
Visit our finance department to find out how you can secure an auto loan today or apply for financing so you can buy brand new. Learn how your budget can work for you by using our payment calculator, which can outline what you can afford and what fits within monthly finances. You can also take advantage of Rick Hendrick specials, offers, and incentives on new vehicles, used vehicles, and service.
If you already own a GMC, take it to our service center the next time you need the battery replaced or the oil changed. You can also shop for new tires or order parts for your vehicle directly from our online parts center. Our collision center also handles major repairs and bodywork, getting you back out on the road after an accident. For basic maintenance, let our expert technicians promptly get you in and out when you schedule to have your vehicle serviced at our dealership.
Check out our inventory or browse through our online offerings to see what vehicle best suits your tastes. Find something for work with our excellent selection of work trucks, or discover a comfortable family vehicle from among our lineup of GMC SUVs. Call or chat with our team today to find out how you can test drive or own a new GMC!
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.