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While the GMC Canyon is supposed to be a better version of the Chevrolet Colorado, it’s not really able to deliver on that promise. Though it is available with three different engines under the hood and 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, this pickup doesn’t have much else going for it. Especially when it comes to the 2021 GMC Canyon specifically, which struggles when it comes to both predicted reliability and owner satisfaction ratings. Fortunately, there are other options out there if you’ve got your heart set on a new pickup.

2021 GMC Canyon AT4 hits the trails
2021 GMC Canyon AT4 | GMC

The 2021 GMC Canyon has some pretty poor predicted reliability ratings

Reliability ratings are a pretty big deal. For new pickup shoppers, they can be the difference between signing along that dotted line or walking out of a dealership altogether. Unfortunately for the 2021 GMC Canyon, its predicted reliability ratings aren’t all that promising. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, this year’s model earned a pretty lousy two out of five predicted reliability rating.

Though, reliability hasn’t been a strength for the GMC Canyon in quite a while. According to Consumer Reports’ data, only the 2020 GMC Canyon was able to snag a five out of five reliability rating. Prior to the 2020 model year, the GMC Canyon struggled to deliver more than a one out of five reliability rating.

Consumer Reports isn’t the only outlet to have given the GMC Canyon a less than stellar reliability rating either. According to U.S. News & World Report, this year’s GMC Canyon has the lowest-possible predicted reliability rating and earned only a two out of five.

It doesn’t have a great track record with owner satisfaction either

With its poor reliability ratings, it should come as no surprise then that the GMC Canyon also struggles when it comes to owner satisfaction. This year’s model earned itself a three out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating, which doesn’t make for a glowing recommendation. So, what’s the problem with the GMC Canyon?

Well, according to Consumer Reports, owners of the 2021 GMC Canyon might take issue with its overall comfort and value. Unfortunately for the GMC Canyon, this isn’t the first time it’s struggled in such areas. Owners of the 2020 and 2019 GMC Canyon also took issue with the pickup’s overall comfort and value. 

It would appear that owners of this year’s model have already taken to the World Wide Web to complain about the 2021 GMC Canyon too. “Just got the 2021 GMC Canyon Evolution Edition and I already regret it with only 1000 miles on it. The ride and the seats are extremely uncomfortable. The Seats are stiff and the lumbar support is more of a butt support. This is really bad for someone with a bad back and is horrible for longer trips. The suspension is very tight and you feel every bump. I imagine I will have to have both replaced. The V6 is strong but the exhaust tone is very noisy and I already have a ticking sound in the engine,” reads one Edmunds review.

The 2021 GMC Canyon is pretty expensive for what it is

And if low reliability ratings and an inability to satisfy owners doesn’t have you ready to avoid the 2021 GMC Canyon? U.S. News & World Report says that this year’s model boasts a fairly high base price in comparison to some of its rivals. With a starting price of $26,400, the 2021 GMC Canyon is more expensive than pickups like the Ford Ranger and the Chevrolet Colorado.

Consider checking out one of these pickups instead 

Fortunately for you, there are plenty of options available when it comes to shopping for a new pickup. If you’re in need of a pickup that, like the GMC Canyon, is able to tow upwards of 7,000 pounds, then we suggest checking out the Ford Ranger or the Jeep Gladiator.