19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but for the 2020 GMC Canyon 4WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a perfectly acceptable trade-off. Buyers choosing this configuration aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. They’re looking for a capable, mid-size truck that can handle weekend adventures, light-duty work, and the occasional harsh weather conditions. This particular Canyon offers a blend of utility and refinement that differentiates it from more basic competitors, and those features demand a certain amount of fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 GMC Canyon 4WD 3.6L break down to 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and lower average speeds typically encountered in urban environments, where the truck’s weight and engine characteristics work against it.

The 24 MPG highway rating is more respectable, showcasing the efficiency of the 8-speed automatic transmission at cruising speeds, allowing the engine to operate at lower RPMs and conserve fuel. It demonstrates that while this Canyon isn’t a fuel sipper around town, it can achieve reasonable efficiency on longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 GMC Canyon 4WD 3.6L is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices and how much time you spend at the gas station. Someone who frequently tows or drives aggressively will likely exceed this estimate. Conversely, a driver with a lighter foot and more highway miles may spend less.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, but real-world fuel economy is often different. Many drivers find that their actual MPG falls slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the use of accessories like air conditioning can all impact fuel consumption. While achieving the advertised 24 MPG on the highway is possible, expect to see something closer to 16-18 MPG in the city and perhaps 21-23 MPG in combined driving scenarios. These differences are part of owning a vehicle intended for truck-like tasks, not just pure economy.

How it compares

The 2020 GMC Canyon’s fuel economy stacks up against its competitors, but with some caveats. The Toyota Tacoma 4WD with its 3.5L V6, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 18 MPG combined, 18 city, and 22 highway, slightly below the Canyon’s highway figure. The Nissan Frontier, with its older, less efficient V6, lags further behind. The Chevrolet Colorado 4WD, which shares a platform with the Canyon and offers the same 3.6L V6, has identical fuel economy ratings. Comparing the CANYON MPG across all years shows what has improved over time.

Ultimately, the Canyon’s fuel economy isn’t a standout in its class, but it’s competitive enough that buyers are more likely to focus on other attributes like interior comfort, technology, and available features. Someone might cross-shop a Honda Ridgeline, but the Honda’s unibody construction and focus on on-road comfort versus truck capability make it a different choice. If fuel efficiency were the absolute top priority, a customer might consider an SUV instead of a truck. All Gmc fuel economy data tells a broader story of what the brand offers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire inflation can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the door jamb sticker. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money at the pump.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, consistent driving is the key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. A smoother driving style will not only save fuel but also reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without providing any forward movement, and it is particularly wasteful in modern vehicles. Many newer vehicles have auto stop-start features, but if yours doesn’t, manually turning off the engine is an easy way to conserve fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway when conditions permit. Maintaining a constant speed can improve fuel economy, especially on long drives. Cruise control helps you avoid unintentional speed fluctuations that can waste fuel. Just be sure to disengage cruise control in inclement weather or heavy traffic.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from your truck. Extra weight puts additional strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the bed of the truck or the cab. Even small amounts of weight can add up over time and impact your MPG.