The 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD with the 2.8L Duramax diesel engine gets 22 MPG combined, a reminder that fuel efficiency isn’t its main goal. It won’t win any hypermiling contests, but this figure is a trade-off for buyers who want low-end torque, impressive towing for a mid-size truck, and 4-wheel drive for tough conditions. This isn’t just for commuting; it’s a workhorse for those who need a capable truck for daily use.

City and highway fuel economy

The EPA estimates the 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD 2.8L diesel gets 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the engine’s tendency to run at lower RPMs, relying on its torque to get moving. Stop-and-go traffic will hurt fuel economy, as with any vehicle. However, the highway number is where the diesel performs best. The engine runs in a relaxed cruise, using its efficient design to deliver good mileage for long distances. Drivers planning frequent highway trips, especially when towing, will find the highway MPG a big advantage over the gasoline-powered Canyon versions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD 2.8L diesel is $2,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and the national average diesel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, local fuel prices, and the type of driving you do. Drivers who often tow or drive in the city will likely see higher annual fuel costs. Likewise, those who mainly drive on the highway and drive efficiently may find their costs lower than the EPA estimate. Check all GMC fuel economy data to see how its mileage compares across the brand.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Canyon owners report different MPG numbers, based on driving style, road conditions, and vehicle load. Expect lower MPG when towing, especially uphill, as the engine works harder. However, careful driving, avoiding hard acceleration, and keeping a steady speed on the highway can bring you closer to the EPA’s highway estimate, or even beat it. Regular maintenance, such as changing the air filter and keeping proper tire inflation, also helps fuel efficiency. Always compare your experience with other owners and with CANYON MPG across all years.

How it Compares

The 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD 2.8L diesel competes with other mid-size trucks. The Toyota Tacoma, for example, typically gets lower MPG, with the 4WD V6 averaging about 18 MPG combined. The gasoline-powered Canyon 4WD with the V6 engine is similar, around 19 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Colorado, mechanically similar to the Canyon, has nearly the same fuel economy numbers with its diesel version. The Canyon diesel offers a combination of torque and efficiency that rivals struggle to match. Buyers drawn to the Canyon diesel often want its towing ability and diesel engine benefits over saving every last mile per gallon. For example, a buyer who regularly tows a small camper or boat will likely find the diesel’s torque worth the slight fuel economy difference compared to a gasoline V6.

Tips to maximize fuel economy

Gently accelerate to get the best fuel economy in the Canyon diesel. The engine produces a lot of torque at low RPMs, so there’s no need to accelerate hard from a stop. Increase your speed gradually, letting the engine run efficiently without straining.

Anticipate traffic to minimize braking. By looking ahead and anticipating lights or slowdowns, you can reduce hard braking. Coasting to a stop saves fuel and reduces wear on your brakes.

Keep a steady speed on the highway. Avoid speed changes, as these make the engine work harder and use more fuel. Using cruise control on long highway stretches can help you keep a consistent speed and improve fuel economy.

Proper tire inflation is important. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Diesel engines are efficient at idle, but long idle periods still use fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, consider turning off the engine, especially when you don’t need the climate control running.