“The truck handles like a car. I recommend the V6 engine which has great power, and fuel economy. A great vehicle.”
2016 GMC Canyon: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 GMC Canyon is the late-year arrival of a 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel on SLE and SLT Crew Cab models. Otherwise, this is a light update to the truck redesigned for 2015.
About the 2016 GMC Canyon
2nd generation (2015-2022), second model year
GMC positioned the Canyon as the premium choice in the midsize-pickup class: easier to maneuver than a full-size truck, but still built for real towing, hauling, and weekend truck duty. The brand’s message centered on a quiet cabin, better interior materials, useful technology, and a broad mix of cab, bed, and drivetrain choices. In plain terms, the Canyon was the midsize truck for shoppers who wanted pickup utility without giving up everyday comfort.
The 2016 Canyon ranges from basic work-truck versions to the more polished SLE and comfort-focused SLT. SLE brings an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, while SLT adds leather seating, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and remote start.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel joined SLE and SLT Crew Cab models late in the model year. In the right configuration, it raises maximum towing capacity to 7,700 pounds.
Styling
Alloy wheels became standard on the base Canyon rather than optional.
Equipment
A rear sliding window became standard on the SLT trim.
2016 GMC Canyon specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, VVT, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, VVT, 2.5 Liter / V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, Trbo Dsl, 2.8L | V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, Trbo Dsl, 2.8L | V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, VVT, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 24–31 mpg | 24–31 mpg | 26–27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 181–305 hp | 181–305 hp | 200–305 hp |
| Torque | 191 lb-ft | 191–369 lb-ft | 269–369 lb-ft | 191–269 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 7000–7600 lb | 7000–7600 lb | 7000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 28.6 in | 28.6–35.8 in | 28.6–35.8 in | 28.6–35.8 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4–5 | 4–5 | 4–5 |
| Doors | 2 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 GMC Canyon?
The biggest change is the addition of a 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine late in the model year. It was offered on SLE and SLT Crew Cab models.
Which 2016 GMC Canyon trims have the diesel engine?
The 2016 Canyon diesel was offered on SLE and SLT Crew Cab models. It arrived late in the model year, so not every 2016 truck has it.
How much can the 2016 GMC Canyon diesel tow?
The 2016 Canyon diesel can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped. Actual capacity depends on the truck's cab, drivetrain, and equipment.
Was the 2016 GMC Canyon redesigned?
No, the 2016 Canyon was not redesigned. It was the second model year of the generation introduced for 2015, with the diesel engine as its main update.
Is the 2016 GMC Canyon substantially different from the 2015 model?
No, the 2016 Canyon is not substantially different from the 2015 model unless the diesel engine matters to you. Most of the truck carried over, while the base Canyon gained standard alloy wheels and the SLT gained a standard rear sliding window.
2016 GMC Canyon Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 GMC Canyon.
4.1
2016 GMC Canyon
(472 reviews)
“My GMC Canyon is a great truck! It is sophisticated, rugged but still stylish. I enjoy the upgraded seats and the look of it in general. Great built in sound system and navigation system. It rides smoothly & works tows great!”
“The door panels are plastic and vibrate when the music is up 1/4 of the way. That's with the settings at mid range.”