20 MPG combined isn’t impressive, but for the 2020 GMC Canyon 2WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s acceptable efficiency for a practical mid-size truck. This isn’t a hyper-efficient commuter. It’s a truck for those who want utility, comfort, and a slightly more premium feel than a base work truck.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 GMC Canyon 2WD V6 at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving many Canyon owners experience, especially those who use it for daily tasks. The 25 MPG highway rating is achievable on longer trips, but loading the bed or towing will impact fuel economy. The smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission helps in achieving these figures by keeping the engine at its optimal power level. A lighter foot on the accelerator is essential to reaching or exceeding these numbers, especially when accelerating from a standstill.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,200 for the 2020 GMC Canyon 2WD V6. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary based on local fuel prices and driving habits. Those who primarily drive in the city or frequently tow will likely exceed this figure, while those who stick to mostly highway driving, drive fewer miles, or drive cautiously may find this value high. It’s a useful benchmark for comparison, but personalize it based on your anticipated usage.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing, but real-world MPG often differs. Canyon owners report a range of fuel economy figures depending on driving styles and conditions. Some report consistently hitting the EPA’s 25 MPG highway rating on long road trips, while others, particularly those who use the Canyon for work and frequently haul cargo, find themselves closer to the 18 MPG city figure. Expect to see a dip in fuel economy when towing or carrying heavy loads. Terrain also affects fuel efficiency, with hilly or mountainous areas demanding more from the engine. Driving habits directly impact fuel numbers on any vehicle, especially the 2020 GMC Canyon 2WD V6.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size trucks, the 2020 GMC Canyon 2WD V6’s fuel economy is typical. The Toyota Tacoma 2WD with its 3.5L V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger 2WD with its 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-four gets 23 MPG combined, a notable advantage. The Nissan Frontier with its 3.8L V6 yields 20 MPG combined. A consumer choosing a Canyon over a Ranger might prioritize the Canyon’s more refined interior and ride, even if it means sacrificing a few MPGs. Comparison with all Gmc fuel economy data further illustrates where the 2020 Canyon V6 stands within the brand’s lineup. It’s also useful to see CANYON MPG across all years to see how the MPG has changed over the years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.6L V6 in the Canyon benefits from smooth, gradual acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to conserve fuel. Aggressive driving can diminish fuel economy in any vehicle, and the Canyon is no exception.

Tire pressure is important for fuel efficiency. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money.

Remove any unnecessary weight from the bed or cab of the Canyon. Extra weight puts additional stress on the engine, decreasing fuel efficiency. Carrying tools or equipment you don’t need wastes money.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may frequently downshift, negating some of the efficiency benefits. Using cruise control on level, open roads helps reduce throttle fluctuations.