2009 GMC Canyon: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The single biggest change for the 2009 GMC Canyon is the addition of a 5.3-liter V8 option on extended- and crew-cab trucks. It is a major mid-cycle update rather than a redesign, with upgraded brakes, standard stability control, better fuel economy for most 2.9- and 3.7-liter trucks, and light exterior revisions.
About the 2009 GMC Canyon
1st generation (2004-2012), sixth model year, major mechanical update year rather than a redesign.
GMC positioned the 2009 Canyon as a compact pickup with more choice and polish than a basic small truck: multiple cab styles, rear- or four-wheel drive, several suspension setups, strong towing for its size, and a more finished cabin than many work-focused rivals. The draw was versatility. Buyers could use it as a job truck, daily driver, or smaller alternative to a full-size pickup while still getting real bed utility and available V8 power.
Work Truck is the task-focused model, with heavy-duty suspension, a bench seat, air conditioning, and a bedliner. SLE is the more comfortable middle trim, with cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and fog lamps, while SLT is the comfort-oriented version with leather, heated power front seats, and an automatic locking rear differential.
What changed, by category
2009 GMC Canyon specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.9 Liter / 5-Cyl, 3.7 Liter / V8, 5.3 Liter | 5-Cyl, 3.7 Liter / V8, 5.3 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.9 Liter / 5-Cyl, 3.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15–18 mpg | 15–17 mpg | 17–18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21–24 mpg | 21–23 mpg | 23–24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 185–300 hp | 242–300 hp | 185–242 hp |
| Torque | 190–320 lb-ft | 242–320 lb-ft | 190–242 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 4000–6000 lb | 6000 lb | 2200–4000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 23.1–34.8 in | 23.1–34.8 in | 23.1 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 4–5 | 3–5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 2–4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 GMC Canyon?
The biggest change is the new 5.3-liter V8 option for extended- and crew-cab models. It gives the 2009 Canyon a powertrain not offered the year before.
Is the 2009 GMC Canyon a full redesign?
No, the 2009 GMC Canyon is not a full redesign. It remains part of the first generation but receives a substantial mid-cycle update covering the engines, brakes, stability control, wheels, and exterior details.
What safety changes did the 2009 GMC Canyon receive?
The 2009 Canyon gains standard stability control on every model and a new brake system with greater stopping power and improved pedal feel.
Is the 2009 GMC Canyon meaningfully different from the 2008 model?
Yes, the 2009 Canyon has several meaningful updates over the 2008 model. The changes include a new V8 option, upgraded brakes, standard stability control, fuel-economy improvements for most 2.9- and 3.7-liter trucks, and light exterior revisions.
Which trims were added for the 2009 GMC Canyon?
SLE, SLT, and Work Truck were added to the GMC Canyon lineup for 2009. Work Truck is task-focused, SLE balances comfort and utility, and SLT has the most comfort-oriented cabin.