While shopping for a mid-sized truck that can perform on and off the road, you may have come across the GMC Canyon and Nissan Frontier as front runners in the competition. Here we will take a look at the similarities, differences, and pros or cons of owning one of these headliner trucks.
GMC Canyon: Pros And Cons
The GMC Canyon is the youngest of the pair, the first generation starting in 2004 when the Nissan Frontier was moving into its second. With a recent overhaul, the Canyon has joined the Frontier in its third generation and brings all of the modern amenities you would expect from a post-2020-era vehicle. Some of the standout features include a robust towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs, which is one of the best for mid-sized trucks, although it still falls well short of the massive power of other larger vehicles.
Unlike the Nissan Frontier, the GMC Canyon has several more trim options, including an optional diesel engine variant that is non-standard for this truck class. However, there are also several cons to the GMC Canyon that may make it a dealbreaker for you:
- Every model of the GMC Canyon sports an incredibly drab and utilitarian interior, even on the most luxurious trim options. The GMC Canyon may have seen performance and body structure overhauls, yet it fails to stand up to modern aesthetics and seems locked in the early 2010s.
- The newest models only come with a 2.4 liter I4 engine which pales compared to the potent 3.8 liter V6 of the Frontier.
- GMC has one of the least consumer-friendly warranties on the market, at three years/36,000 miles for the base warranty and the powertrain.
GMC Canyon Vs. Nissan Frontier Similarities
Despite their differences, the GMC Canyon and Nissan Frontier are mentioned in the same breath, held to a high standard, and each brings a solid foundation to the mid-sized truck market. The most significant similarities between the two include the following:
- Available 2WD and 4WD options
- Several trim options and various additional features
- Modern standard features like Apple Car Play and Android Auto
- Offroad juggernauts that perform well in a multitude of road and weather conditions
- Spacious cabs with extensive storage and several bed sizes
Nissan Frontier: Pros And Cons
The third generation of the Nissan Frontier is a relatively new addition that has propelled the brand into the modern age of trucks. A more powerful engine than the competition and incredible performance make it a fantastic multi-use vehicle that can tow, haul, and take on rugged terrain. Further, it has some sturdy offroad models, including the incredible Pro-4X that provides the smoothest and best performance off the beaten path. Along with its robust and comfortable interior with a sleek and modern feel, the Frontier is a contender for one of the best trucks when it comes to offroad capabilities.
Additionally, the Nissan Frontier has always had a lower price point than other comparable vehicles, and you will undoubtedly find one in your budget, whether it is new or used. However, the Frontier does have a pair of issues that may turn buyers away. It has a lower, although still good enough, towing capacity, and its lesser number of trim options may not have the exact model you need.
Verdict
The GMC Canyon and Nissan Frontier are solid trucks, and you wouldn't find yourself wanting, no matter your choice. Although regarding the kind of performance most people want from a mid-sized truck, the Nissan Frontier is the clear front runner.
Call Or Come On Into Charlie Clark Nissan of El Paso
For all your Nissan Frontier questions and needs, call us at (915) 975-9161 and schedule a test drive today!
