22 MPG combined is an acceptable, if unremarkable, figure for the 2018 GMC Canyon 2WD with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine. This truck isn’t about outright economy, though. It’s about providing truck utility in a smaller, more manageable package at a lower price than full-size trucks. The rear-wheel-drive configuration and smaller engine are concessions some buyers are willing to make to get into a capable, versatile vehicle without the bulk or cost of a larger pickup, often suburban homeowners, small business owners who don’t need heavy-duty towing, or those who simply prefer the driving experience of a truck. They understand the trade-off between fuel efficiency and utility, and the Canyon 2WD sits squarely in their sweet spot.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 GMC Canyon 2WD 2.5L achieves 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions where the engine is working harder to accelerate from a standstill, and the automatic transmission is shifting frequently. The relatively low curb weight of this particular Canyon configuration, around 3,600 pounds, helps reduce the impact of city driving. The highway number is typical of steady-state cruising, where the engine can operate more efficiently.

Still, the Canyon’s truck-like aerodynamics limit its maximum highway fuel efficiency compared to a similarly sized sedan or SUV. The six-speed automatic transmission is geared to optimize both acceleration and fuel economy, allowing for decent performance at low speeds while still providing overdrive gears for efficient highway cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 GMC Canyon 2WD 2.5L at exactly $2,000. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Remember this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and local fuel prices.

Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will all increase your fuel consumption and push your annual fuel cost higher. Conversely, careful driving habits and mostly highway miles could lower your annual fuel expenses below the $2,000 mark. Using the EPA estimate as a baseline allows you to compare the relative fuel cost of the Canyon to other vehicles you might be considering.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect to see figures that fluctuate around the EPA estimates, likely falling somewhere between 18 MPG and 24 MPG combined, depending on driving style and conditions. Frequent towing or carrying heavy loads will drastically reduce fuel economy. Windy conditions can also negatively impact the Canyon’s efficiency due to its less-than-ideal aerodynamics.

Keep in mind that factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the quality of the fuel you use can all play a role in your truck’s MPG. Monitor your fuel consumption over time to get a more accurate picture of what you can expect in your specific driving situation. If you’re consistently falling far below the EPA estimates, it might be worth having your Canyon inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure there are no underlying mechanical issues affecting fuel economy.

How it compares

In the mid-size truck segment, the 2018 GMC Canyon 2WD 2.5L stacks up against rivals like the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier. A comparable 2018 Toyota Tacoma SR 2WD with its base 2.7L four-cylinder is rated at 21 MPG combined (19 city/24 highway), putting it slightly behind the Canyon in overall economy. The Nissan Frontier S 2WD with the 2.5L four-cylinder achieves around 19 MPG combined. While the differences may seem small, they can add up over time, particularly with rising fuel costs.

The Honda Ridgeline, technically a unibody pickup, achieves significantly better fuel economy, reaching 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine, but it also commands a higher price and prioritizes on-road comfort over off-road capability compared to the body-on-frame Canyon. For truck buyers prioritizing value and capability for light duty work, or general utility, the CANYON MPG across all years may be more appealing than the Ridgeline’s premium focus. Those seeking better fuel efficiency might also cross-shop smaller crossovers or SUVs, but these lack the bed space and towing capabilities of a pickup truck. Comparing all Gmc fuel economy data can help discern if stepping up to the Canyon’s V6 model is the best route for increased power and capability with only a small fuel economy penalty.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration and hard braking can significantly reduce your fuel economy. Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. Maintaining a steady speed and avoiding rapid changes in throttle position will help you achieve better fuel efficiency, especially on the highway.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid prolonged idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the 2018 GMC Canyon, are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, minimizing the impact on fuel consumption.

Consider removing unnecessary weight from your truck. Carrying around heavy items in the bed or cab of your Canyon will reduce its fuel efficiency. Only carry what you need and remove any unnecessary cargo to lighten the load on the engine. Lightening the load is especially important for the 2.5L engine, which is focused on fuel efficiency and less suited to towing heavy loads.