Which truck wins the off-road battle: toyota tacoma vs gmc canyon at4

When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, two names stand out: the Toyota Tacoma and the GMC Canyon. Both trucks are renowned for their off-road capabilities, but each has its unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Tacoma against the GMC Canyon AT4, the most rugged trim level in the Canyon lineup, to determine which truck reigns supreme in the off-road arena.

Off-Road Performance: The Heart of the Matter

Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles

The foundation of off-road performance lies in ground clearance and approach/departure angles. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, the most capable off-road trim, boasts an impressive 10.2 inches of ground clearance. The GMC Canyon AT4, on the other hand, offers 10.7 inches, providing a slight edge in navigating obstacles.

When it comes to approach and departure angles, the Tacoma and Canyon are closely matched. The Tacoma has a 35-degree approach angle and a 25-degree departure angle, while the Canyon has a 33.5-degree approach angle and a 26-degree departure angle. These angles allow both trucks to tackle steep inclines and descents with confidence.

Four-Wheel Drive Systems

Both the Tacoma and Canyon come standard with four-wheel drive systems. The Tacoma features a part-time four-wheel drive system with a two-speed transfer case, while the Canyon has a full-time four-wheel drive system with a single-speed transfer case.

The Tacoma’s part-time four-wheel drive system is more efficient on-road, while the Canyon’s full-time four-wheel drive system provides better traction in off-road situations. However, the Tacoma’s two-speed transfer case offers lower crawl ratios for extreme off-road conditions.

Off-Road Tires and Suspension

Off-road tires and suspension play a crucial role in handling rough terrain. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro comes equipped with 16-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure tires. The GMC Canyon AT4 features 17-inch wheels with Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires.

Both tires are designed for off-road performance, providing excellent grip and traction. However, the Duratrac tires on the Canyon have a more aggressive tread pattern, which may provide an advantage in muddy or rocky conditions.

The Tacoma TRD Pro has a specially tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks and a rear differential lock. The Canyon AT4 also features a tuned suspension with Multimatic DSSV dampers and an optional locking rear differential.

The Bilstein shocks on the Tacoma are known for their excellent off-road performance, while the Multimatic DSSV dampers on the Canyon are designed to improve both on-road and off-road handling.

Interior and Features: Comfort and Convenience

Cab Design and Space

The Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon offer different cab designs. The Tacoma has a more traditional pickup truck cab with a bench seat in the front, while the Canyon has a more car-like cabin with bucket seats in the front.

The Tacoma offers more headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. The Canyon has a more spacious and comfortable interior, with more storage compartments and a larger infotainment screen.

Technology and Features

Both the Tacoma and Canyon come well-equipped with technology and features. The Tacoma features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features.

The Canyon has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a Bose premium audio system, and a head-up display. It also offers more advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.

Engine Options and Performance

Power and Torque

The Toyota Tacoma offers two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 with 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque.

The GMC Canyon offers three engine options: a 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel with 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.

The Canyon’s 3.6-liter V6 produces the most horsepower and torque, giving it a slight edge in acceleration and towing capacity. However, the Tacoma’s 2.7-liter four-cylinder is more fuel-efficient, providing better gas mileage.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Toyota Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,685 pounds. The GMC Canyon has a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,592 pounds.

The Canyon’s higher towing capacity and lower payload capacity make it a better choice for hauling heavy loads.

Pricing and Value

Trim Levels and Pricing

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro has a starting price of $47,110. The GMC Canyon AT4 has a starting price of $44,600.

The Tacoma TRD Pro comes with a more comprehensive set of off-road features, including a locking rear differential, Bilstein shocks, and Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure tires. The Canyon AT4 offers a more spacious and comfortable interior, as well as more advanced safety features.

Warranty and Maintenance

Both the Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Tacoma has a slightly longer warranty period, but the Canyon offers complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first two years or 24,000 miles.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Off-Roader

The Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon AT4 are both excellent off-roaders with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Tacoma has a more rugged off-road design, a higher ground clearance, and a lower starting price. The Canyon has a more spacious and comfortable interior, a more powerful engine, and a higher towing capacity.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance and value, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is the way to go. If you prefer a more comfortable and feature-rich interior, as well as a higher towing capacity, the GMC Canyon AT4 is the better option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which truck has a higher payload capacity?

The GMC Canyon has a higher payload capacity of 1,592 pounds, while the Toyota Tacoma has a payload capacity of 1,685 pounds.

Which truck has a better warranty?

The Toyota Tacoma has a slightly longer warranty period with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Which truck is more fuel-efficient?

The Toyota Tacoma with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is more fuel-efficient than the GMC Canyon with any of its engine options.