Toyota Tacoma Or GMC Canyon: Key Differences & Buyer's Guide
Durable capability, toughness on and off the road, and a heavy-hitting towing capacity are pillars of our Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon comparison, where we review how these midsize pickups measure up. The Toyota Tacoma excels in horsepower output, providing greater values than the GMC – all with a more fuel-efficient powertrain. It's versatile and driver-focused, with many configurations and options to fit your lifestyle. Review our GMC Canyon vs. Toyota Tacoma guide here, and then schedule your Tacoma tour at McGee Toyota of Epping.
Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon at a Glance
- The Tacoma offers higher available horsepower and torque values.
- GMC Canyon trucks tow up to 7,700 pounds,1 while the Tacoma can tow a maximum of 6,500 pounds.2
- The Tacoma is the more fuel-efficient truck – especially when using one of its hybrid options; the Canyon offers no hybrid powertrain in its 2025 lineup.
- Both models are reliable, but the Tacoma will likely last longer and has received appealing ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).3
Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon Specs & Performance
Our 2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2025 GMC Canyon comparison begins with how each pickup truck performs. Both models are powerhouses of capability with thrilling horsepower and torque. The Tacoma starts the lineup with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine capable of 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque.
If your priority is enhanced fuel efficiency, the Tacoma provides a hybrid 2.4-liter turbocharged engine called the i-FORCE MAX that'll accommodate you; it bumps power by nearly 100 horsepower, bringing your total output to 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque while increasing your MPG ratings.
The GMC Canyon struggles to keep pace with the higher-level Tacoma output with its single TurboMax engine. It can pump out 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque – high values that don't quite touch what the Tacoma is capable of.
Another key comparison: The first four Tacoma trims all have lower starting MSRPs than the entry-level GMC Canyon, which means tremendous value.
← Drag to scroll →
| 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Double Cab | 2025 GMC Canyon Elevation | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | TurboMax |
| Horsepower | 278 | 310 |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Electronically controlled 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Towing Capacity | 6,400 lbs2 | 7,700 lbs1 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 21 / 26 / 234 | 19 / 23 / 205 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Bed Length / Width | 73.5 / 53 in | 61.7 / 58.1 in |
| Overall Length / Width / Height | 213 / 76.9 / 74 in | 213.2 / 72.4 / 79.8 in |
Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon Towing Capacity
No matter which model you opt for, you get a several-thousand-pound towing capacity. The entry-level Tacoma SR starts with a 3,500-pound towing capacity,2 but this gets boosted on select models to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Across the GMC Canyon lineup, a 7,700-pound towing capacity1 is standard. However, those who require more significant hauling chops from a Toyota pickup truck might want to explore the Toyota Tundra – a truck capable of towing up to 12,000 pounds2 while putting out up to 437 horsepower.
GMC Canyon vs. Toyota Tacoma Truck Bed Dimensions
As with its varied engine options and trims, the Toyota models come out victorious in our Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon truck bed comparison. Its standard 6-foot bed measures 73.5 inches in length and 53 inches in width, while its 5-foot option is 60.3 inches long and 44.7 inches wide.
The GMC Canyon is only available in a single size: about 5 feet. Its cargo bed measures 61.7 inches long and 58.1 inches wide.
Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon Trims
Comparing the Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon proves that the Tacoma is a champion of power and versatility. There are 11 well-equipped and unique trims to choose from, including:
- SR
- SR5
- TRD PreRunner
- TRD Sport
- TRD Off-Road
- TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX
- TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX
- Limited
- Limited i-FORCE MAX
- Trailhunter
- TRD Pro
Although powerful, the GMC Canyon fails to offer the same level of variation as the Tacoma, with just three available trims:
- Elevation
- AT4
- Denali
GMC Canyon vs. Toyota Tacoma Reliability
When reviewing the 2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon reliability, we find more extensive information for one model than the other: the Toyota Tacoma. The new Toyota Tacoma has a history of earning the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick badge,3 as well.
The GMC Canyon hasn't received an IIHS review since its 2022 model year. Pairing this information with the long-lasting lifespan of the Tacoma (up to 300,000 miles total), the GMC Canyon falls behind in terms of reliability.
Which Pickup Truck Wins Our Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon Clash?
We know how crucial it is to have all the right tools for every job. That's why we think the victor of this Toyota Tacoma vs. GMC Canyon comparison is the Toyota Tacoma. It makes more power than the Canyon and balances its capability with available hybrid fuel efficiency. Pair this next-gen sustainability with one of our Toyota Tacoma lease deals to save even more on this resilient model.
Contact McGee Toyota of Epping for your tour of its 11 trims today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the fuel economy compare between the Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon?
On the entry-level model with RWD, the Toyota Tacoma earns up to an EPA-estimated 21/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),4 while the entry-level GMC Canyon gets an EPA-estimated 19/23/20 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).5 The Tacoma is even more appealing with a hybrid model, which can get up to an EPA-estimated 23/24/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4 The Canyon has no hybrid equivalent.
Which has better safety features: the Toyota Tacoma or the GMC Canyon?
The Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon have similar safety features, but the Tacoma is the only of the two named a Top Safety Pick3 with six "Good" ratings across multiple categories. Both have robust airbag systems and crisp rear view camera systems to help you stay alert while on the road. The two also have Head-Up Display systems available for hands-free, eyes-always-on-the-road benefits.
What are the key differences between the Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon?
The key differences between the Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon include powertrain availability, power output, and seating capacity. The Toyota Tacoma has a more fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain available, whereas the Canyon operates on gas-only power. The greater available horsepower of the Tacoma is also a significant factor in their comparison, as are the multiple bed and cab sizes, making the Toyota truck more versatile.
Make an Inquiry
* Indicates a required field
1Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
2GM-estimated. Maximum trailering ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Toyota/tacoma-crew-cab-pickup/2025
4Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
5EPA-estimated mpg for the TurboMax engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
