For the Price of a Base 2023 GMC Canyon, You Can Get a Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road
It’s been eight years since the third-generation Tacoma debuted, but it still outsells rivals. Though Toyota’s midsize pickup is showing its age, there’s no denying the style and capability of the 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road. On the other hand, the all-new 2023 GMC Canyon delivers updated tech and luxury, but is it worth the premium price?
The 2023 GMC Canyon is more expensive than most rivals
GMC’s starting MSRP for the base-model 2023 Canyon Elevation is $38,395. While the 2023 Honda Ridgeline and 2023 Jeep Gladiator base models have higher starting prices, MSRPs for the entry-level Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma remain well below the 2023 GMC Canyon Elevation’s price.
How much does a 2023 GMC Canyon cost compared to a 2023 Toyota Tacoma?
Toyota starts its base-model 2023 Tacoma SR at $28,600. But you’ll sacrifice a lot compared to the standard Canyon. For example, the Canyon Elevation features more interior space and a more potent base engine than the SR. However, with a nearly $10,000 price difference between the two base models, there’s a lot of room for upgrades in the Tacoma.
What is the price difference between the 2023 GMC Canyon Elevation and the 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road?
One advantage of avoiding unnecessary updates is keeping costs down. Tacoma shoppers continue taking advantage of Toyota’s low prices by selecting upscale trims like the Tacoma TRD Off-Road. For example, Toyota lists the starting MSRP for a double cab 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4X2 at $36,790, about $1,600 less than the base GMC Canyon.
Of course, anyone interested in the Tacoma TRD Off-Road probably wants a truck with four-wheel drive. So, adding 4X4 to the Tacoma increases the price to $39,755. For comparison, a 4WD Canyon Elevation starts at $41,695.
Tacoma TRD Off-Road vs. Canyon Elevation: Specs and features
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road AT 4X2 double cab packs a 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission. The V6 produces 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque while delivering 21 mpg combined. The rear differential includes a limited-slip mechanism and an electronically controlled locking mechanism for more traction when needed. In addition, the TRD Off-Road tuned suspension features upgraded Bilstein shock absorbers.
Also, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road trim provides the following premium features at no additional cost:
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with two-way lumbar support
- Four-way adjustable front passenger seat
- Leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and phone controls
- Leather-trimmed shift lever
- Three USB ports, including one media and two charge ports
- Power sliding rear window with privacy glass
- Dual-zone front-seat automatic climate control
- 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with six speakers, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay via Bluetooth connection
- Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams
The base Canyon Elevation has a 2.7-liter “High-Output” turbocharged engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and two-wheel drive. The Canyon’s High-Output engine produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque and gets 20 mpg combined. This truck’s transmission provides the following features:
- Tow/haul mode
- Powertrain grade braking
- Cruise grade braking
While the Elevation trim is the cheapest of the GMC Canyon’s trim levels, it provides premium features, such as:
- An 11.3-inch multi-touch display infotainment system with built-in Google and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Off-road suspension with a two-inch factory lift and wide stance
- Canyon Pro Safety with forward collision alert, following distance indicator, lane keep assist with departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and front pedestrian and bicyclist braking
- HD rearview camera
However, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road outshines the Canyon Elevation in the following areas:
- The Elevation has only manual seat adjustment, not power
- The TRD Off-Road boasts a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
- The Elevation has single-zone climate control
- The TRD Off-Road touts the previously mentioned locking rear differential
Though the 2023 GMC Canyon Elevation is a good truck, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road is better and costs less. Leave a comment below telling us which truck you choose and why.
