The short answer is no. No GMC Canyon has ever been offered with a factory V8 engine in any model year. The midsize pickup has relied on smaller-displacement gasoline engines, typically four- or six-cylinder configurations, and in some generations a diesel option, with no V8 option available.
This article examines how the Canyon’s powertrains have evolved across generations, why GM steered away from a V8 in this segment, and what that means for buyers and enthusiasts today.
Context: the midsize truck market and GM’s strategy
The GMC Canyon sits in the second tier of GM’s pickup lineup—smaller and generally lighter than full-size trucks. To optimize fuel economy, payload, and on-road manners in this segment, GM has historically paired the Canyon with smaller gasoline engines and, in later years, a diesel option, rather than a traditional V8. That approach has kept the Canyon distinct from GM’s full-size trucks, which have long offered V8 powerplants.
Engine options by generation
First generation (2004–2012)
Across its initial run, the Canyon’s engine lineup consisted of four- and six-cylinder gasoline engines. There was no factory V8 option offered for this generation.
Second generation and current lineup (2015–present)
In the modern Canyon, GM has continued to omit a V8 option in favor of smaller, more modern powertrains. The lineup has included turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder configurations, and in some markets a diesel option, but never a factory V8.
Takeaways for buyers
If a V8 is a priority, buyers would need to consider GM’s full-size trucks (such as the Silverado) rather than the Canyon, as the latter remains a V8-free proposition in its current and recent generations. For most buyers, the Canyon’s offered powertrains focus on balanced power, efficiency, and towing within the midsize segment.
Summary
In short: no GMC Canyon has ever shipped with a V8 from the factory. Across its generations, the Canyon has stayed with smaller-displacement gasoline engines and, in some years, a diesel option, trading raw V8 power for efficiency and mid-size practicality. For those seeking V8 performance, GM’s full-size pickups remain the relevant option.
What GMC Canyon to stay away from?
If you need to get an older GMC Canyon, both a 2007 and 2008 might be a reasonable option despite their problems. Overall, in terms of cost of repair, the severity of problems, and when the problems start happening, the 2015 and 2016 models perform worst even among the GMC Canyon years to avoid.
What year is the best year for a GMC Canyon?
Best GMC Canyon Years to Buy Used
- 2020 GMC Canyon. The 2020 GMC Canyon has top-ranking scores, making it a dependable model year to buy used.
- 2021 GMC Canyon. The 2021 GMC Canyon introduced a new lineup of trims with valuable enhancements.
- 2022 GMC Canyon.
- 2023 GMC Canyon.
- 2024 GMC Canyon.
Did the GMC Canyon ever have a V8?
There are several V6 and V8 engines that have been put in the GMC Canyon over the years, and all of them are great options to maximize your performance. Also, in newer GMC Canyon vehicles, you can find diesel engine options to give you good fuel economy and excellent torque.
Did any Chevy Colorados come with a V8?
For model year 2009, the Colorado was facelifted again and a new 5.3 L (323 cu in) LH8 V8 engine was added, producing 300 hp (224 kW) and 320 lb⋅ft (434 N⋅m).