The mid-size truck market has exploded in the past couple of years. Nearly all of the mid-size truck manufacturers have either revamped, brought back to life, or completely redesigned their trucks. This market is extremely hot right now and continues to grow still as more manufacturers plan to rejoin the race for the best-in-class mid-size truck. Among the commotion, two models have stood strong since 2003, and remain some of the top trucks in the class. If you are in the market for a mid-size pickup, more than likely you’re comparing the 2019 GMC Canyon vs 2019 Chevy Colorado.
These trucks are two of the best selling models to date and continue to make a splash in a segment that is full of innovation and competition. It is a difficult segment to compete in, as there is a wide variety of customers and customer needs. Customers range from the family man to a company work truck, the mid-size trucks have to fill a wide niche and stay relevant to every customer.
These two trucks fill nearly every roll and are able to cross over between several markets and customer types. However, how are they able to do it, and which is better at fulfilling everyone’s needs? Both trucks are built on the same platform and use the same engine and drivetrain components. They are identical in all ways mechanical and share plenty of other components. So what separates the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado and the 2019 GMC Canyon and which offers the better value for you, your family, or your business?
Interior
The interior of these two trucks are extremely similar, and since they ride on the same platform, are based on the same architecture. However, when looked at in detail, the trucks have very different purposes and offer completely unique packages. The GMC Canyon has a far more upscale and comfortable interior. The materials used are much nicer and create a better environment to be in while driving.
The switchgear and dials are all based on the same platform as the Chevy Colorado; however, the materials used and attention to detail is far superior. The seats and armrests are covered in softer materials that are more comfortable to the touch. The trim is composed of a higher-end alternative to that of the Colorado, and the environment that is created offers the driver and passengers a much more inviting space. The Canyon is also much better equipped. With more features available at lower trim levels, you don’t have to spend as much to get the package that you’re looking for.
The Colorado, on the other hand, does have one overall advantage, its functionality. The less premium materials and focus on plastics tend to not be as comfortable or inviting, but they are built for a purpose and serve it well. The interior is tough and can be built at a low cost, making it ideal for a business or company. The interior can still be well equipped in the higher trim levels but fails to compare to the GMC in terms of materials used and comfortability.
Exterior
GMC has always been the “older brother” of the GM brands. GMC vehicles are more composed, prouder, and more visually prestigious than Chevy trucks. The 2019 GMC Canyon is no different. The design is more contemporary and stands up stronger to the test of time. In 20 years, the Canyon will still be a very good looking and modern truck while the Colorado will age quicker and with less distinction.
The tall wheel arches and wide fender flares give the truck a strength that the Colorado just doesn’t have. The front end stands tall and proud without looking overly large like many modern trucks and the headlights boast a very attractive LED light pattern. The rounded edges and beefy stance give the truck a classic truck appearance while keeping it relevant in a modern era.
The Chevy Colorado is of a different nature. The bumpers and front end hold a very different presence and are sportier and more aggressive. The headlight design is less intricate than that of the Canyon and in the lower trim models, the truck really shows the price cutting. The steel wheels, black plastic cladding, and trim pieces tell tales of the trucks heritage and purpose, even in the higher trim models.
Trim Packages
Both of these trucks come with a wide array of trim packages, and each comes with its benefits. The GMC Canyon is clearly a luxury based truck and has trim packages that represent this. The Chevy Colorado is the more economical choice, but also has a more sporty appearance and off-road based packages available.
The 2019 GMC Canyon has the basic array of trims that all GMC models come with, including the Denali package. The Denali is what really sets the Canyon apart. The Denali package is the ultimate truck, there is no better trim available on any model available. The plushness of the interior is unlike that of any other interior available today and it sets the Canyon into a new realm from its competition.
The Canyon, particularly in the Denali trim, is capable of competing with vehicles that no other truck really compares to. The Luxury SUV’s and crossovers are a growing market and sales are evidence of that. The Canyon’s ability to represent more than one customer base customers the ability to cross-shop the truck from other, very lucrative, segments. Included with the Denali trim are a Bose audio system, remote start, an 8-inch infotainment system with included navigation, and teen driver configurations.
The Colorado has several trim packages, and the wide range of models and price points makes it a great option for any price range. A GMC Canyon Denali competition is not available and misses a large market. However, an off-road ready variant is available and is something that the GMC doesn’t offer. The Chevy Colorado ZR2 is an off-roading truck with specially tuned shocks, suspension, bumpers, and more. The off-road variant is a special truck and is a segment that GMC doesn’t totally have covered yet, though in this specialty trim represents a smaller portion of customers than that of a luxury truck.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the mid-size truck market is absolutely blowing up with the competition. A segment that many thought might die away is currently making a massive come back and has even taken many sales from the full-size trucks. The 2019 GMC Canyon and 2019 Chevy Colorado is a difficult matchup, but ultimately the truck market has spoken and the majority of customers use these vehicles as a daily driving vehicle and care more about on-road comfort and drivability. The luxury features and interior surroundings are vastly important in any segment in today’s market and are one of the main selling points of most vehicles. For that reason, the GMC Canyon is the clear winner. Despite its slightly higher MSRP, the Canyon offers a more comfortable package at a reasonable price point. The MSRP doesn’t peak high enough away from that off the Colorado to make it an unreasonable buy.
