The 2022 GMC Canyon 4WD with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine gets 21 MPG combined. It’s a number that won’t exactly set the world on fire, but it’s a compromise accepted by buyers who prioritize ruggedness, truck utility, and the Canyon’s distinctive GMC styling. This isn’t a truck aimed at hypermilers; it’s for those who need a capable midsize pickup and are willing to trade some fuel efficiency for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 GMC Canyon 4WD 2.5L to achieve 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the predictable reality that stop-and-go city driving puts a greater strain on fuel economy compared to the more consistent speeds of highway cruising. The six-speed automatic transmission is geared to provide adequate acceleration and towing capability, but it lacks the fuel-saving benefits of transmissions with more gears. Drivers who spend the majority of their time in urban environments will likely see fuel consumption closer to the 19 MPG city rating, while those who frequently take longer road trips will fare better with the 24 MPG highway figure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 GMC Canyon 4WD 2.5L at exactly $2,100. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the price of gasoline in your area, and how much you actually drive each year. It’s a standardized estimate that allows buyers to compare the relative fuel expenses of different vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Expect variances based on driving style, the grade of fuel used, tire pressure, and even weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration and frequent heavy braking will significantly decrease fuel economy. Towing or carrying heavy loads will also negatively impact MPG. Owners who meticulously maintain their Canyon and drive carefully can reasonably expect to approach, or even slightly exceed, the EPA estimates. For more information, check the CANYON MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2022 GMC Canyon 4WD 2.5L’s fuel economy sits in a specific niche. For example, the Chevrolet Colorado, which shares a similar platform and engine, achieves essentially identical EPA ratings. The Toyota Tacoma, another popular midsize truck, typically returns slightly better fuel economy in its four-cylinder 4×4 configuration, hovering around 20 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, but the differences are often minimal. The Nissan Frontier with its V6 engine typically offers lower fuel economy, around 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, while offering more power. These comparisons are relevant for buyers weighing their options, particularly those debating whether the Canyon’s capabilities justify its fuel consumption compared to other trucks.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical for achieving optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your Canyon’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Also ensure that your engine gets regular maintenance.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Accelerate smoothly and brake gradually to minimize fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Unnecessary idling also wastes fuel, so avoid letting your Canyon idle for extended periods.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Excess cargo adds extra weight, which directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed or cab of your Canyon to reduce the load and improve MPG. This is more important if you are using the vehicle for commuting and not for a construction-related job.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed on the highway can help you optimize fuel efficiency. Setting your cruise control can help you avoid accidentally speeding up or slowing down, leading to better MPG.

Pay attention to the grade of gasoline you use. While the 2.5L engine doesn’t require premium fuel, using a higher octane fuel than necessary won’t improve fuel economy. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended fuel grade to avoid wasting money. For all Gmc fuel economy data, refer to the official documentation.