Unlike GM products of the past, the GMC Canyon and the Chevrolet Colorado are very different trucks when it comes to features and driving.

When it was time to reenter the midsize truck market, the GM team gave us two trucks to choose from.  While they do share a platform and the powertrains, these two trucks certainly allow you to make different choices for what you want when it’s time to have a midsize truck that will help you get things done when you take a drive.

Off-Road Performance

We’re not going to spend time on powertrains, because these items are shared. When it comes time to head out on the trails and get things done in areas that don’t have paved roads, the Chevy Colorado is the leader. This truck gives you the choice of the Z71 package, the ZR2 trim, and the new Bison package that takes off-roading seriously. The GMC Canyon is capable of going out on the trails when you choose the All-Terrain model, but you don’t have the added benefits of the ZR2 or the Bison models that you find in the Colorado lineup.

Technology

Both trucks offer you infotainment systems that have everything you’re looking for and the Teen Driver feature to help you keep tabs on new drivers. There are also plenty of excellent safety features that are offered to give you the benefits of forward collision warning, lane departure alerts, and a variety of other items that will keep you safe when you’re on the road. While the Colorado has the off-road tech that can be the most fun, the active safety features are more plentiful and available in the GMC Canyon to make sure you can have the list of items you want to stay safer on the road.

Cabins and Cargo

The use of a midsize truck is one that makes a lot of sense for those of us that enjoy going outside and seeing what the world has to offer. Both of these trucks offer three body styles and a pair of bed lengths to choose what you want. Because these trucks are built on the same platform, they are the same size. Only the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is a bit taller, which means you have to jump a little higher to get inside and take a drive.

Payload and Towing

Another area where you won’t find a difference is in the payload and towing capacity. The GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado share the powertrains which means they also share the payload and towing ratings. The 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine gives you the ability to tow up to 7,700 pounds and carry up to 1,496 pounds in the bed. The use of the 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine will make it possible for you to tow up to 7,000 pounds and carry as much as 1,574pound in the bed to give you the carrying capacity you’re looking for.

Style

Yes, there’s a difference in style and it’s easy to see when you put the Chevrolet Colorado next to the GMC Canyon. The Colorado brings you a brash and bold style that seems to be aggressive, especially if you choose one of the off-road models of the Colorado. On the other hand, the GMC Canyon is more conservative and refined in its style while being big and easy to respect. If you choose the Denali trim of the Canyon, you’ll be pleased with how this truck can easily give you the look you want and the sharp design that feels like it belongs in a higher area of the market.

Choose the Right GM Truck Today

If you’ve narrowed your choices in the midsize truck market down to the GM pair, you’ve made an extremely smart choice. These two trucks are the only ones offered with a diesel powertrain and they offer you the most variety of items and trims to choose from. If you want more off-road prowess and a bolder look, choose the Chevrolet Colorado today. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a refined style and added safety and comfort in the cab, the GMC Canyon will be the right truck for you to drive every day.