2012 GMC Canyon: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 GMC Canyon is that an automatic locking rear differential became standard on 4WD and crew-cab models, improving traction when a rear wheel slips. Otherwise, this final year of the original Canyon is a light trim-equipment update rather than a redesign.
About the 2012 GMC Canyon
1st generation (2004-2012), final US model year before the Canyon skipped 2013 and 2014 and returned as a redesigned 2015 model.
GMC positioned the Canyon as a smaller pickup with full-size attitude: a truck built for real hauling, towing, and everyday jobs, but easier to park and live with than a full-size Sierra. The brochure leans on versatility, power choices, and "Professional Grade" engineering, while outside reviews note that the GMC version adds a little more chrome and upscale trim than the closely related Chevrolet Colorado. For most buyers, the Canyon's appeal is simple: pickup utility in a more manageable size.
The lineup ranges from the task-focused Work Truck to the more comfortable SLE and premium SLT. SLE has Bluetooth, power accessories, and fog lamps, while SLT combines heated leather front seats with standard 4WD, off-road hardware, and towing equipment.
What changed, by category
2012 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 / Auto, 4-Spd w/OD | Auto, 4-Spd w/OD | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 14–18 mpg | 14–17 mpg | 17–18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 20–25 mpg | 19–23 mpg | 23–25 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 | 4000–5500 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 23.1–34.8 in | 34.8 in | 23.1 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 5 | 3–5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 2–4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| 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
Was the 2012 GMC Canyon redesigned?
No. The 2012 GMC Canyon carries over the same basic platform, cab styles, body, and engine lineup from 2011. It was the final U.S. model year of the first-generation Canyon before the model returned in redesigned form for 2015.
What is the main difference between the 2012 and 2011 GMC Canyon?
The main difference is that the 2012 Canyon has a standard automatic locking rear differential on 4WD and crew-cab models. The other updates are smaller trim-equipment changes rather than a broad mechanical or styling overhaul.
What changed on the 2012 Canyon Work Truck?
The 2012 Canyon Work Truck gained standard satellite radio, while 4WD Work Truck models also gained a standard automatic locking rear differential. Its basic four-cylinder engine, work-focused suspension, air conditioning, and Bluetooth setup otherwise remained familiar.
What changed on the 2012 Canyon SLE?
Upper SLE-2 versions gained standard front bucket seats. An automatic locking rear differential also became standard on SLE models with 4WD or a crew cab.
Did the 2012 GMC Canyon get new engines or transmissions?
No. The 2012 Canyon kept the 2.9-liter four-cylinder, 3.7-liter five-cylinder, and 5.3-liter V8 engine lineup, with manual or four-speed automatic transmissions depending on the version.