​​Which Mid-Size Pickup Truck is the Best: GMC Canyon or Toyota Tacoma?​

The mid-size pickup truck segment had a very good year in 2025. Consumers are finding that they can do more with less for both work and play. The segment’s best seller is the Toyota Tacoma – a strong pickup truck that offers a lot of what you need. However, we offer a very formidable foe – the 2026 GMC Canyon. We think it is better than the Tacoma in many ways. Recently, Autoblog compared the 2026 Canyon and the Tacoma. Let’s see if the Canyon is the better of the two…

For 2026, the Canyon continues to offer packages with Professional Grade design, performance, and capability. The trims are both work-ready and ready to play, from the well-equipped Elevation trim to the luxurious Denali. Plus, two AT4 models are built to handle the trail ahead.

Powered by the standard 310-horsepower 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder Turbomax engine, the 2026 Canyon offers the best internal combustion engine torque at 430 pound-feet. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, you have the choice of two or four-wheel drive on the Elevation model. The AT4, AT4X, and Denali models have the four-wheel drive system as standard.

One significant advantage the 2026 Canyon has over the Tacoma is its towing capacity. As Autoblog points out, “it packs more towing capability than either of the Tacoma’s powertrains. All models come equipped with a towing package that includes a receiver hitch, trailer brake controller, and connectors. The Elevation, AT4, and Denali models are capable of towing up to 7,700 lbs.”

Another area where the Canyon shines is in its standard technology package. There are two driver-focused screens – an 11.0-inch Driver Information Center and an 11.3-inch diagonal center touchscreen. The latter screen offers up to 10 camera views that assist when towing a trailer and maneuvering through a tough section of a trail.

These technologies are wrapped in a quality-trimmed interior. As Autoblog points out, “the American pickup continues to offer upscale luxury at all levels, but the Denali model is the pinnacle of premium in the range. The Canyon Denali puts passenger comfort at the forefront, with a trim-exclusive black interior with teak accents, heated and ventilated front seats, and 20-inch aluminum wheels. A 6.3-inch head-up display, seven-speaker Bose premium audio system, and an 11-inch digital gauge display are just a few other features that help the Denali deliver a premium driving experience.”

In summary, Autoblog said that “the GMC Canyon is a tough contender. Both midsize models offer impressive performance, but the Canyon takes top prize in towing capability.”

The 2026 GMC Canyon is now available at Ewing GMC of Plano. Contact us to experience one soon!