GMC Canyon II (AT2) (2015 – 2022)

Reliability score : 8.6/10

The second-generation GMC Canyon (AT2) marks General Motors' return to the midsize pickup segment, alongside its technical twin, the Chevrolet Colorado. Positioned as a more premium offering than the Colorado, the Canyon stands out with a design inspired by the larger Sierra, slightly superior interior materials, and the introduction of the luxurious Denali trim in 2017. A facelift occurred for the 2021 model year, introducing a widened grille and replacing the All Terrain trim with the off-road-oriented AT4 version. According to data from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, it ranks among the best in its class in terms of overall reliability, offering an excellent compromise between towing capacity, ride comfort, and practical dimensions.

✅ Strengths

Overall reliability above the category average (J.D. Power / Consumer Reports)
Powerful and very robust 3.6L V6 engine (LGX)
2.8L Duramax diesel engine offering excellent longevity and 500 Nm of torque
Road handling and comfort superior to the competition (notably the Tacoma)
Denali trim offering a premium interior for the segment
High towing capacity (up to 3,490 kg with the diesel)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very low front air deflector (chin spoiler), limiting ground clearance off-road (although removable)
Quality of some interior plastics on lower trims (Elevation/SLE)
Original halogen lighting could be improved on pre-2021 models
Front seats lacking lateral support on long trips

🎯 Verdict

The second-generation GMC Canyon is an excellent choice in the midsize pickup category. Data from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports place it above average in terms of reliability. The 3.6L V6 (especially the post-2017 LGX) is the most well-rounded choice, offering power and robustness. For high-mileage drivers or those who tow regularly, the 2.8L Duramax diesel is exceptional and represents the most reliable long-term option, provided the accessory belt and injector seals are monitored. The 2015 models suffered from teething problems (numerous early recalls), so it is advisable to target models from 2017 onwards, or ideally the post-2021 facelifted versions.

Common issues

Problèmes de transmission automatique (8L45/8L90) High

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km

💶 1 500 – 4 000 $USD (convertisseur ou réparation majeure)

Tester la transmission à différentes vitesses; vérifier l'historique des vidanges de boîte.

Défaillance du moteur de soufflerie ou de sa résistance (HVAC) Low

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 150 – 400 $USD

Vérifier le fonctionnement du ventilateur à toutes les vitesses avant l'achat.

Problèmes de direction assistée électrique Medium

🔧 80 000 – 160 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 $USD

Tester la direction à l'arrêt et à basse vitesse pour toute anomalie ou lourdeur.

Usure prématurée de la chaîne de distribution (moteur 3.6L V6) High

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 1 800 – 3 500 $USD

Exiger l'historique d'entretien, surtout les vidanges d'huile régulières et de qualité.

Défaillance de la pompe à carburant ou du capteur de niveau Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 400 – 800 $USD

Vérifier le bon fonctionnement de la jauge et l'absence de bruits anormaux du réservoir.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 140
Timing chain	£1 600 – 3 000 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Complete brakes	£400 – 700
Estimated annual budget	£700 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.