Automatic Sport Cars

 

The Canyon series was introduced by the General Motors Corporation (GMC) in the year 2004. Ever since then, the company has continued to bring high quality and powerful models into the lineup that always manages to tap the last release. The same trend is continued on with the 2011 GMC Canyon pickup and there are a lot in store here.

With a maximum payload of 1,422 pounds (645 kg) and an available 5.3L V-8 that enables a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg), the midsize GMC Canyon delivers big-time capability. The 5.3L V-8 is available on extended cab and crew cab models, delivering 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 320 lb.-ft. of torque (434 Nm).

The WT sports single-zone manual air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, four wheel antilock brakes with front discs, rear drums, cruise control, front 60/40 split-bench with vinyl, integral outboard head restraints and dual cup holders, tire pressure monitor and 15-inch steel wheels.

The SL adds color-keyed carpeting on the floors, front 60/40 split-bench with Pewter SL Cloth, integral outboard head restraints and dual cup holders, and 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

SLE1 builds on top of the SL with some chrome accents on interior bits, a couple of grab handles, CD and MP3 capability to the audio system with speed compensating volume control, front 60/40 split-bench with SLE Deluxe Cloth, manual recliners, integral outboard head restraints, armrest with integral storage and dual cup holders.

 the exterior styling for the 2011 GMC Canyon remains largely unchanged. In fact, it has not seen any significant revision since the 2007 model. Although largely similar to the design of the previous years, the grille remains to be one of the most notable stylish features for this vehicle. Indeed, there are more surprises waiting for you on the inside.

the 2011 GMC Canyon’s interior is built using subpar materials, such as hard plastic. The main reason for this was the fact that they have retained the basic construction for the earlier models and things have changed since. If only the Canyon series could keep up with its future models, then this should not prove to be a problem at all. One thing that critics have continually praised about the 2011 GMC Canyon is the quality of its ride. The pickup vehicle  runs smoothly and quietly, while the handling has been superb for this vehicle.

Engine and drivetrain details
The base engine in all but Z71-equipped crew cabs is a powerful, 2.9L DOHC four-cylinder with variable valve timing (VVT) that delivers 185 horsepower (138 kW) and 190 lb.-ft. of torque (258 Nm).* Available in all models – and standard in the crew cab with 4WD – is a 3.7L DOHC five-cylinder with VVT that is rated at 242 horsepower (180 kW) and 242 lb.-ft. of torque (328 Nm).*

Both the 2.9L and 3.7L engines are based on GM’s modular inline engine design, which features dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing, electronic throttle control and other features that contribute to high levels of operating efficiency and fuel economy. Balance shafts help ensure smooth operation of the engines, providing a higher level of refinement.

The 5.3L V-8 is also available. It is based on GM’s legendary small-block V-8 architecture, delivering exceptional power and torque that is rare in the Canyon’s class. Horsepower is rated at 300 (224 kW)* and torque is 320 lb.-ft. (434 Nm)*.

Transferring the Canyon engines’ torque to the axles is an Aisin five-speed manual transmission or a Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The manual transmission is standard with the four-cylinder engine – except for crew cab models, where it is not available. The automatic is standard with the available five-cylinder engine and V-8; and available with the four-cylinder (standard with crew cab models).

Safety feature
Canyon includes standard head curtain side air bags. They act like a protective curtain when deployed, unfolding from the roof rail between the A-pillar and side window header. When the bag deploys in a moderate to severe side impact, it is angled somewhat toward the window to help provide protection for front- and rear-seat outboard passengers.

Other safety features include: energy-absorbing steel structure, standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes, rack-and-pinion steering and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system anchors for child safety seats.

Pricing Details

The pricing information for the 2011 GMC Canyon has not been fully detailed yet. However, the base model is expected to begin at $17,000 and could go up to as much as $30,000.

reference:starredreviews.com,www.distroauto.com