2022 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2023 GMC Canyon

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 introduced the Denali Ultimate and AT4X variants, enhancing the already premium Denali and AT4 trims. With eight trim levels, the Sierra appeared larger and more aggressive than its predecessor, thanks to an updated grille, front fascia, and headlight design. The Denali's grille transitioned to a "tri-linear" theme with thicker chrome inserts, while the Denali Ultimate featured dark-coloured "Vader bars." New 22-inch wheel designs and three premium paint options further elevated its exterior. Inside, the Sierra's cabin felt more spacious, with a redesigned dash and premium materials in the AT4X and Denali Ultimate trims, including leather, wood, and microsuede.

The 2023 GMC Canyon, redesigned for a tougher look, featured headlights and daytime running lights integrated into a broad grille, giving it an aggressive stance. Sharing dimensions with the Chevy Colorado, the Canyon had a longer wheelbase and an "Ultra Wide Track" stance. The AT4X model offered a 7.6 cm lift for off-road capability, while the Denali trim added chrome accents and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Denali boasted laser-etched wood trim and leather upholstery, setting it apart from other midsize trucks. The Canyon's interior offered ample space, with a focus on functionality and style, particularly in the AT4X with its bold upholstery and dashboard trim.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four engine options, including a 2.7L turbo four-cylinder and a 3.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six, both enhanced for 2022. The turbo-four produced 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, with improved towing capacity up to 4,354 kg for 2WD models. The diesel engine, with 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 5,987 kg with the Max Trailering Package. Other engine options included a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and a 6.2L V8 with 420 hp. The Sierra's ride was smooth and comfortable, with the Denali Ultimate and AT4X trims offering luxury and off-road capabilities, respectively.

The 2023 GMC Canyon featured a single powertrain: a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the Canyon was available only with 4WD, featuring a single-speed transfer case on the Elevation and a two-speed transfer case on other models. The AT4X model included off-road features like electronic lockers, skid plates, and Multimatic DSSV dampers. The Canyon balanced on-road comfort with off-road prowess, with the AT4X excelling in various terrains and drive modes.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 offered best-in-class cargo capacity, with front headroom of 1,093 mm and front legroom of 1,131 mm. Rear-seat passengers in the crew cab enjoyed 1,102 mm of legroom. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, though the gloveboxes were small. The driver-oriented cockpit had a low centreline, with screens and controls positioned lower than expected. The AT4X trim had off-road controls in two locations, adding to the complexity.

The 2023 GMC Canyon was available only as a crew cab with a 5.2-foot bed. It offered ample interior space, with first-row legroom surpassing most midsize trucks. The MultiStow tailgate provided a waterproof storage compartment, though limited in utility. The Canyon lacked a telescoping steering wheel and power-adjustable front seats, maintaining a simpler pickup design. The new turbo-four engine matched the towing capacity of the discontinued diesel, with a maximum of 3,492 kg for most trims.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 featured larger display screens, with a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 13.4-inch touchscreen on most trims. The infotainment system included Google built-in, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 15-inch head-up display. The Denali models had an interactive start-up screen, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system was available. The system was fast and responsive, though navigating between maps could be confusing.

The 2023 GMC Canyon's infotainment system included an 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Bluetooth streaming. The digital instrument cluster varied by trim, with an 8-inch display on Elevation and AT4 models and an 11-inch display on Denali and AT4X. A 6.3-inch head-up display and Bose audio system were standard on higher trims. The system featured Google Built-In functionality, with an Off-Road Performance Display for off-road enthusiasts. The surround-view camera system, with an underbody view, aided in off-roading and trailer hitching.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 introduced GM's Super Cruise, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, on the Denali Ultimate trim. The Sierra featured up to 14 camera views, a GCW Alert, and Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert. GMC Pro Safety included forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Sierra received mostly "Good" crash safety ratings from the IIHS but had a "Marginal" grade in the front-passenger small overlap test and a "Poor" grade for headlights. NHTSA ratings were four out of five stars for 2WD models.

The 2023 GMC Canyon's crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication. The standard Canyon Pro Safety Package included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. An optional Safety Plus Package added rear cross-traffic alert and blind-zone steering assist. The Technology Package offered adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. These features were standard on the Denali and AT4X trims, along with a Safety Alert Seat.