The 2022 GMC Canyon 2WD with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine gets 22 MPG combined. This isn’t the leading selling point for this truck, but it’s acceptable for buyers who prioritize capability and affordability over fuel efficiency. The Canyon 2WD with the smaller engine appeals to budget-conscious buyers who need a truck bed for occasional hauling, home improvement projects, or weekend adventures, and are willing to trade fuel savings for a lower upfront price and traditional truck styling.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates show how the 2022 Canyon 2WD performs in different driving conditions. Its 19 MPG city rating reflects fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic, where the engine frequently accelerates from a standstill. The 25 MPG highway rating demonstrates its ability to achieve better fuel economy at consistent speeds on open roads. Note that heavier acceleration and higher speeds will decrease that highway number. A light foot in the city can help you approach, or even slightly exceed, the official estimate. Both ratings are a product of the 2.5L engine’s power delivery and the 6-speed automatic transmission’s gearing.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 GMC Canyon 2WD 2.5L at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. However, the 2.5L is designed to run on regular unleaded. This $2,000 figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Canyon’s fuel costs to other vehicles, which allows potential buyers to factor fuel expenses into their overall vehicle ownership budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, your actual fuel economy can vary considerably based on your personal driving style and environment. If you frequently tow trailers or carry heavy loads, expect significantly lower MPG. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will also negatively affect fuel consumption. Routine maintenance, like properly inflated tires and regular oil changes, are important to achieving optimal fuel economy.

How it compares

When cross-shopping the 2022 GMC Canyon 2WD 2.5L, considering its competitors is critical. The Chevrolet Colorado, which shares its platform with the Canyon, offers similar fuel economy with its base engine. The Nissan Frontier, redesigned for 2022, boasts a more powerful V6 engine, but its fuel economy typically hovers around 20 MPG combined. Comparing the CANYON MPG across all years reveals that newer models offer slight improvements over older generations, but the differences aren’t massive. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else, certain trims of the Ford Maverick hybrid achieve upwards of 37 MPG combined, but that comes with a compromise in towing capacity and payload compared to the Canyon.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden acceleration and braking. The 2.5L engine doesn’t reward aggressive driving. Instead, smooth, steady inputs are key to squeezing out every last mile per gallon. Keep an eye on tire pressure, because underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and drastically reduce fuel economy. Refer to the sticker on your door jamb for the recommended pressure.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Hauling around items you don’t need impacts the engine and transmission, and therefore increases fuel consumption. Clear out any unnecessary cargo to improve fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling whenever feasible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and reliably, and you’ll save fuel in the long run. Make sure you don’t neglect routine maintenance: oil changes, air filter replacement, and spark plug replacements are necessary.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This can prevent unintended acceleration and deceleration, helping you optimize fuel economy on long trips. Also, ensure your wheels are properly aligned. Misalignment can create drag, reducing fuel efficiency and causing uneven tire wear. Review all Gmc fuel economy data to further guide which vehicle is right for you.