2011 GMC Canyon news, pictures, and information

2011 GMC CANYON OFFERS BIG CAPABILITY IN A MIDSIZE PACKAGE

With its efficient packaging, Canyon looks and feels more like a spacious full-size pickup than a typical midsize truck. A stiff frame enables more precise suspension tuning to deliver a smooth, isolated ride without sacrificing responsive handling.

Canyon also delivers class-leading refinement wîth features such as hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion §teering; large front disc brakes wîth twin-piston calipers; independent suspension wîth coil-over front shocks on 2WD models (except Z71 and V-8); front torsion bars on all 4WD models, as well as 2WD Z71 models and 2WD wîth the V-8 and Z85 suspension; and specifically tuned powertrain and body mounts that help reduce interior noise and vibration.

A trio of suspension choices is available: the rugged Z85 suspension standard on 2WD or 4WD models, the Z71 off-road suspension, also available in 2WD and 4WD and the ZQ8 sport suspension. The ZQ8 option is paired wîth the new 5.3L V-8 and is available on extended and crew cab models.

Engine and drivetrain details

The base engine in all but Z71-equipped crew cabs is a powerful, 2.9L DOHC four-cylinder wîth variable valve timing (VVT) that delivers 185 horsepower (138 kW) and 190 lb.-ft. of torque (258 Nm).* Available in all models – and standard in the crew cab wîth 4WD – is a 3.7L DOHC five-cylinder wîth VVT that is rated at 242 horsepower (180 kW) and 242 lb.-ft. of torque (328 Nm).*

Both the 2.9L and 3.7L engines are based on GM's modular inline engine design, which features dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing, electronic throttle control and other features that contribute to high levels of operating efficiency and fuel economy. Balance shafts help ensure smooth operation of the engines, providing a higher level of refinement.

The 5.3L V-8 is also available. It is based on GM's legendary small-block V-8 architecture, delivering exceptional power and torque that is rare in the Canyon's class. Horsepower is rated at 300 (224 kW)* and torque is 320 lb.-ft. (434 Nm)*.

Transferring the Canyon engines' torque to the axles is an Aisin five-speed manual transmission or a Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The manual transmission is standard wîth the four-cylinder engine – except for crew cab models, where it is not available. The automatic is standard wîth the available five-cylinder engine and V-8; and available wîth the four-cylinder (standard wîth crew cab models).

In off-road or inclement weather driving situations, Canyon's four-wheel-drive system provides added confidence and safety for the driver. The dash-mounted electronic 'shift-on-the-fly' system allows the driver to move from rear- to four-wheel drive at any speed when road conditions demand a change.

A locking rear differential is available on 2WD and 4WD models. Additionally, three rear-end gear ratios are available for V-8 models: 3.42:1, 3.73:1 and 4.10:1; four- and five-cylinder models have a standard 3.73 rear axle.

ZQ8 details

The ZQ8 sport suspension package is offered exclusively wîth Canyon's 5.3L V-8. It offers a street-chic stance, along wîth a sports car-like driving experience, wîth specific §teering and track-tuned suspension enhancements that stiffen the suspension about 30 percent. The §teering system wîth the ZQ8 package receives a high-performance cooler and underhood temperatures and airflow are controlled wîth a unique sealing system.

Additionally, the ride height is lower than the standard Z85 suspension by approximately one inch (25 mm) and the package includes unique 18 x 8-inch aluminum wheels (painted Midnight Silver) wrapped by low-profile sport tires. The result is crisp handling and maneuverability, along wîth a great stance.

Safety features

Canyon includes standard head curtain side air bags. They act like a protective curtain when deployed, unfolding from the roof rail between the A-pillar and side window header. When the bag deploys in a moderate to severe side impact, it is angled somewhat toward the window to help provide protection for front- and rear-seat outboard passengers.

Other safety features include: energy-absorbing steel structure, standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes, rack-and-pinion §teering and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system anchors for child safety seats.

The Canyon is covered by a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and three years/36,000 miles for non-powertrain components – the best coverage in America.