GMC Canyon GMT31XX

The GMT31XX-generation Canyon (2015–2022) is GM's mid-size pickup — the slightly upscale sister to the Chevrolet Colorado, with its own grille, a nicer factory interior, and the luxurious Denali trim at the top. As a compact truck it's far more usable in Europe than the full-size beasts, and correspondingly more popular as an import.

The engines: The Canyon GMT31XX used the 2.5L four, the strong 3.6L V6 (LGZ/LFX) and the notable 2.8L Duramax diesel. The V6 is the rounded choice — rev-happy, enough pulling power, with the known GM 3.6 themes (chain-tensioner rattle on cold start, carbon buildup, water pump). The 2.8 diesel is torquey and frugal but demands clean DEF/AdBlue maintenance and a documented timing-belt change. For the buying decision, a complete service book matters most here.

Model years: Early 2015/2016 trucks had more software and transmission teething trouble. Noticeably matured from 2017/2018; if you want the diesel, stick to well-kept examples with unbroken history.

Whole vehicle: The 8L45 torque-converter shudder is the most common driveline complaint. Then electric power steering (EPS) failure, the classic rear-leaf-spring spring slap clunk on take-off/braking, and the freezing IntelliLink/MyLink display (black screen).

Test drive: At 40–50 mph part-throttle, feel for a pulsing shudder (converter). Reverse and brake — any clunk from the rear? (spring slap). Check steering for sudden stiffness. Cycle the infotainment repeatedly to see if it hangs or goes black.

Market 2026: Imports roughly EUR 22,000–35,000 depending on engine and mileage, diesel and Denali above. Insider pick: a 2018–2020 3.6 V6 with documented converter/transmission history and spring slap sorted — the handy GMC truck for anyone who finds the Sierra too big.