Nineteen miles per gallon combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a perfectly acceptable compromise. This truck isn’t bought by people hyper-focused on saving every penny at the pump. It’s bought by homeowners who occasionally haul mulch, hunters who need to access back country during deer season, and weekend warriors who appreciate a manageable truck that still offers serious capability. The fuel economy is secondary to the inherent utility. Buyers understand that a four-wheel drive mid-size truck with a potent V6 comes with certain trade-offs, and fuel consumption is definitely one of them.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD 3.6L V6 achieves 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the fuel-sapping effects of stop-and-go traffic, frequent acceleration, and idling. The Canyon’s reliable V6, while responsive, requires more fuel when asked to repeatedly accelerate a vehicle of this size.

On the open road, at a steady cruising speed, the 24 MPG highway rating demonstrates the engine’s relative efficiency in optimal conditions. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range. However, aerodynamics and rolling resistance still conspire against it, remember you’re still driving a truck.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for this particular configuration of the 2019 GMC Canyon is $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting a national average.

Keep in mind that your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on several factors. Local fuel prices will fluctuate by region and premium fuel grades are not needed in this vehicle. Also, your personal driving habits and the type of driving you do (city versus highway) can significantly impact your real-world fuel consumption.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often varies. Canyon owners report figures that generally hover around the EPA estimates, but those who frequently engage the four-wheel-drive system, tow trailers, or drive aggressively will likely see lower numbers. Off-road driving, in particular, can drastically reduce fuel efficiency due to the increased rolling resistance on uneven terrain and the powertrain working harder to maintain momentum.

Conservative highway driving can sometimes yield slightly better than the advertised 24 MPG, but this requires disciplined throttle control and avoiding excessive speeds.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2019 GMC Canyon 4WD 3.6L V6 occupies a similar position in the fuel economy landscape. For example, the Toyota Tacoma 4×4 with its 3.5L V6 is rated at 18 MPG combined, slightly above the Canyon. The Nissan Frontier 4×4 with its V6 engine comes in around 17 MPG Combined and older six cylinder configurations are even lower. The Chevy Colorado shares its powertrain with the Canyon, meaning its figures are identical. These differences, while present, are not dramatic enough to sway a buying decision based solely on fuel economy. More important factors are often styling, features, and brand loyalty; however, you can research CANYON MPG across all years on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Canyon’s V6 is responsive, but each hard launch drains fuel. Gently accelerate from a stop and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking and acceleration. Maintaining a steady speed is the key to maximizing fuel efficiency on the highway, and remember to use cruise control.

Keep your tires properly inflated. 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 manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This simple step can contribute noticeably to fuel savings.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo adds weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed or cabin of the truck. The less weight the engine has to move, the less fuel it will consume. This is especially useful if the vehicle only carries cargo on certain days and is otherwise used for commuting.

Consider carefully if four-wheel drive is needed. The temptation to keep it in 4-high is understandable, but using four-wheel drive on dry pavement significantly reduces fuel economy. Only engage it when necessary, such as on slippery or unpaved surfaces. Disengaging 4WD and defaulting to 2WD whenever possible will minimize driveline drag and improve fuel efficiency.

Keep up with maintenance. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that the engine is running at peak efficiency. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more efficiently. Explore all GMC fuel economy data to get a better comparison of the GMC lineup.