21 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2021 GMC Canyon 2WD with the 3.6L V6, it reflects the truck’s core mission: a blend of capability and efficiency in a mid-size package. This Canyon isn’t aimed at those solely focused on saving every penny at the pump. It’s for buyers who need a truck for occasional hauling, towing, or terrain where a car simply won’t cut it, but who also don’t require the full-size heft of a Sierra 1500. It’s a compromise, and the fuel economy shows that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Canyon 2WD with the 3.6L V6 and 8-speed automatic transmission break down to 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure indicates that stop-and-go traffic and lower speed limits will take a toll, which is not surprising given the engine’s displacement and the vehicle’s weight. The 25 MPG highway estimate is more reasonable, suggesting that on longer cruises, the Canyon can achieve good fuel efficiency when the engine settles into a more consistent load and speed.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the average annual fuel cost for this configuration of the 2021 GMC Canyon is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is only an estimate. If you drive more aggressively, spend more time in city traffic, or live in an area with higher fuel costs, expect higher expenses. Conversely, if you drive fewer miles per year or primarily stick to the highway, your annual fuel bill may be lower than $2,100. Many factors determine your gas bill, so consider this number a useful baseline.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Drivers sometimes report figures that hover around the EPA estimates, but variables like driving style, terrain, and weather conditions all contribute to the final number. Owners who regularly tow or frequently carry heavy loads will likely see a significant drop in fuel economy. However, those who primarily use the Canyon as a commuter vehicle and prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds may find they can equal or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway estimate. Explore CANYON MPG across all years to review reported mileage.

How it compares

The Canyon’s fuel economy should be evaluated with its competitors. The Toyota Tacoma 2WD with its 3.5L V6 typically returns ratings of 19 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, placing the Canyon slightly ahead on the highway. The Nissan Frontier 2WD with its 3.8L V6 posts about 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Chevy Colorado shares a platform with the Canyon, so their fuel economy numbers are essentially identical when similarly equipped. The small differences in fuel economy numbers are unlikely to be the deciding factor for someone considering vehicles within this class. Capability, features, and overall driving experience weigh more heavily for truck buyers. However, it is good to look at all Gmc fuel economy data when factoring in your final decision making.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.6L V6 in the Canyon delivers ample power, but using it unnecessarily will diminish fuel economy. Smooth and gradual acceleration allows the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently, saving you fuel whether in the city or on the highway.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on the sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds weight to the vehicle, which requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed and cabin to lighten the load and improve fuel economy.

Take advantage of cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can lead to improved fuel economy on long trips. By avoiding fluctuations in speed, you can minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for extended periods.