Usually, when I say “I want to hit the canyons,” I’m referring to a spirited drive on winding roads in a sports car. But when I got into this Canyon, my perspective changed. I suddenly wanted to find canyons without any roads at all.
The GMC Canyon AT4X AEV packs a lot into its name and capabilities. It looks equally impressive standing still as it does crawling up a rocky trail or drifting through desert sand. There’s clearly a lot to love, but as always, we find a couple of drawbacks hidden within.
Which Trim Level
This is the 2026 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV. Canyon is the only part that doesn’t sound like a printer’s serial number. It’s easy to decode, however: AT4X is the top (off-road-focused) trim, and AEV is a package that suggests you really like the outdoors. Those not planning to leave the tarmac would appreciate the Denali trim, but for me, the AT4X AEV looks the business. Why stop there? Add this optional snorkel, a fun and gorgeous color, and the suggested side steps (not equipped here but recommended), and you have quite the vibe, albeit with a hefty price tag.
Favorite Feature
Honestly, the looks as a whole stuck out to me from the moment it arrived. The Volcanic Red Tintcoat color is striking and gets a lot of attention, and the white accents on the interior are a nice surprise. However, we wonder how well the materials will hold up to dirt, especially for those who truly push Baja mode to its fullest potential. Based on looks alone, inside and out, it’s one of my favorite trucks.
What It’s Like To Drive
Here’s where my excitement is split. On one hand, the standard 3-inch suspension lift and Multimatic DSSV dampers handle bumps, road imperfections, and, of course, a good trail like a champion. Ride comfort and seat comfort are excellent.
On the other hand, the powertrain delivers adequate power, but doesn’t feel immediately powerful. Putting your foot down results in waiting for turbo response and transmission downshifts, but eventually, you’re met with strained pomp and circumstance. When I looked up the power numbers, 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft torque, I was surprised to see them that high, because it doesn’t truly feel like that much power. Perhaps it’s smothered by all the equipment and weight, but it’s also only a 2.7L turbo inline-4 in a truck that deserves more. The engine’s strained effort when pushed hard contradicts its extreme, tackle-anything appearance. But in everyday city driving or long highway cruising, it should be adequate.
A noticeable omission is the lack of Super Cruise, leaving the Canyon with only lane correction and radar cruise control. It’s a fine suite of standard safety features, but not forward-thinking, contrasted with other GM offerings that allow for hands-free driving.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Seats are comfortable, but the cabin doesn’t feel very wide. My legs were constantly against the door and the center console, but, almost as if they’d predicted it, there was ample padding in those spots.
The infotainment system uses GM’s current in-house, Google-based system. It’s mostly good, with some confusion in the settings. Audio EQ is nearly impossible to find. It’s not in the audio section of settings or in audio settings that pop up when you change volume. But the Bose system bumps! Bass from the door-mounted mid-subs will attack your leg, though. That’s convenient if your goal is to dry off your pant legs after wading in water.
Having all the tactile HVAC controls below the screen is a welcome departure from an otherwise increasingly screen-filled world. They’re simple, glove-friendly, and show off the inclusion of both heated and ventilated seats.
Limitations
A side effect of the 3-inch lift is the obvious overall height, and while the rock sliders are a cool and functional feature, they don’t double as a step. This means brushing against whatever dirt you encounter on your adventures every time you get in and out. Steps are optional, and ideal if you ask me.
Otherwise, as mentioned, the engine and transmission don’t sound particularly smooth or powerful, and the lack of Super Cruise, given the price tag, is indeed a limiting factor. But I remained very happy piloting the Canyon on all terrain types.
Key Considerations
Cosmetically, it’s eye candy, which is important to many buyers. If looking cool in the REI parking lot is the priority, look no further than the GMC Canyon AT4X AEV, with an added snorkel option. But the limitations mentioned above, especially the omission of Super Cruise and a more powerful engine option, hold it back from near perfection. Those choices also hold it back from an inevitably higher price tag, however. And in this economy, that’s a win of its own.
