The 2020 GMC Canyon 4WD with the 2.8L Duramax diesel engine gets 22 MPG combined. This isn’t a number that will win any efficiency awards, but it’s also not surprising for this particular Canyon. Buyers aren’t prioritizing fuel savings above all else. They’re after a capable, torquey truck that can tow up to 7,700 pounds and confidently go off-road. They accept the fuel economy as a trade-off for that capability, and the diesel’s inherent longevity.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Canyon 4WD diesel break down to 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s tendency to work harder at lower speeds, especially when loaded or towing. The highway number is more respectable, showing the diesel’s efficiency advantage when cruising at a steady speed. That 6-speed automatic transmission plays its part here, but it’s not cutting edge and newer 8- or 10-speed transmissions found in some competitors offer improved efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,550 for this version of the Canyon. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a typical combination of city and highway miles, at average national fuel prices. Of course, your individual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the price of diesel in your area, and how often you tap into the diesel’s torque. Towing, especially heavy loads, will significantly increase your yearly fuel expense.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Canyon owners who spend most of their time in stop-and-go traffic, regularly tow trailers, or drive aggressively can expect to see numbers closer to the city estimate, if not lower.

Conversely, drivers who primarily stick to highway cruising and practice efficient driving techniques may achieve results closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the 28 MPG highway estimate. A light foot and anticipation of traffic conditions can make a difference. Diesel engines tend to improve their fuel economy as they break in, so you may see slightly better numbers after several thousand miles.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size trucks, the Canyon diesel’s fuel economy is in the middle. The gasoline-powered versions of the Canyon, with either the 2.5L four-cylinder or 3.6L V6, generally offer slightly worse combined MPG. For example, the 4WD V6 Canyon achieves only 20 MPG combined. The Toyota Tacoma, a popular truck, also delivers comparable fuel economy; the 4WD V6 Tacoma manages just 19 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger, with its EcoBoost 2.3L turbo-four and 10-speed transmission, gets a slightly better 22 MPG combined in 4×4 guise. The Canyon with the Duramax prioritizes torque and towing capability over outright fuel savings, a reason why many shoppers in this segment choose it over its rivals. See all Gmc fuel economy data to view their full range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.8L Duramax responds well to careful driving habits. Avoiding harsh acceleration and maintaining a steady speed, especially on the highway, can significantly improve fuel economy. Pay attention to the road ahead and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking and acceleration. The less you dip into that deep well of torque, the happier your wallet will be.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel efficiency, especially on a vehicle intended for occasional off-road use. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check tire pressure regularly, as it fluctuates with temperature.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the bed of the truck or inside the cab reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy equipment or tools, to lighten the load and improve efficiency. Pay attention to the weight in the bed, every pound counts.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Ensure your engine is properly tuned, and that air and fuel filters are clean. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing efficiency. Moreover, old spark plugs can cause incomplete combustion, wasting fuel. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will help keep your Canyon running efficiently for years to come. For a wider view, check CANYON MPG across all years

Plan your trips efficiently. Combine errands into single outings to reduce the number of cold starts, which use more fuel. Route your trips to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. A little planning can save you both time and fuel.