With the 2.5, a 6-speed manual transmission is standard on 2WD SL and Extended-Cab models. The 3.6 benefits from a 6-speed automatic, as does the 2.8 diesel. When properly equipped, Canyons with the 2.5 have a tow rating of up to 3,500 pounds; the figure jumps to 7,000 pounds on the 3.6 and an impressive 7,700 pounds for the diesel.
Buyers are given the choice of three different body styles and four different trims. Crew Cabs with four full-sized doors are available with in long or short bed styles, while an Extended Cab with a smaller rear seating area is available only with the longer bed. Four-wheel drive is an option across all body choices; however it is only available in SLE and SLT trims.
The Extended Cab version is the only Canyon that can be had in the stripped out SL trim. Costing a couple of thousand dollars less than other Canyon models, the SL has no rear seat and is equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission. It does however, come with a rearview camera.
The base trim on the Crew Cab versions is simply called Canyon. This trim level adds a power driver's seat, projector beam headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels and a corner step rear bumper.
The SLE trim adds a slew of interior features, including an 8-inch color touchscreen, OnStar with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot technology, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, four USB ports and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Other additions to the SLE trim include 17-inch aluminum wheels and a nicer rear tailgate.
The top-of-the-line SLT trim adds plenty of upscale goodies as well as a bit of bling. Additions include leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, heated and powered outside mirrors, a powered passenger seat, a remote starter, chrome exterior highlights, and 18-inch polished aluminum wheels. Options on the SLT include a Bose stereo and a navigation system.
Like most modern vehicles, safety concerns are eased by a combination of airbags and electronic systems designed to help prevent an accident. The Canyon comes standard with a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control. Features such as forward collision alert and a lane departure warning system are optional.