The GMC Canyon II Crew Cab, specifically equipped with the 2.8-liter Duramax TD engine producing 181 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel-drive automatic transmission, was a mid-size pickup truck sold in North America from 2016 to 2018. It represented GMC’s entry into the increasingly popular segment of smaller, more fuel-efficient trucks, offering a blend of capability and comfort. This variant occupied a middle ground in the Canyon II lineup, positioned between the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder models and the more powerful 3.6-liter V6 options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Generation | Canyon II Crew cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8 Duramax TD (181 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 2000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LWN |
| Engine displacement | 2776 cm3 (169.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.6 l (11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2131 kg (4698.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 681 kg (1501.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1169 l (41.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79.5 l (21 US gal | 17.49 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3447 kg (7599.33 lbs.) |
| Length | 5395 mm (212.4 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1794 mm (70.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3258 mm (128.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 214 mm (8.43 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.3° |
| Departure angle | 22.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 310×27 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 324×18 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Canyon variant is the 2.8-liter (2776 cc) Duramax turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the engine code LWN. This engine is an inline-four cylinder configuration, utilizing a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler is standard, boosting power and torque output. The engine’s 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their efficiency. The automatic transmission is a six-speed Hydra-Matic, known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was chosen to provide ease of use and accessibility for a wider range of drivers, particularly those less familiar with manual transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 181 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.8-liter Duramax, when coupled with the six-speed automatic, provided a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and hauling moderate loads. The automatic transmission was tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, sometimes at the expense of immediate responsiveness. Compared to the available 3.6-liter V6, the Duramax offered significantly more low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and off-road driving. However, the V6 provided quicker acceleration and a more spirited driving experience. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling, providing a balance between fuel economy and capability. The 4WD system offered selectable modes for various terrain conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.8 Duramax automatic Canyon typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Crew cab models offered spacious seating for five passengers. Higher trim levels, such as SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a trailering package, and various appearance upgrades. The interior design was functional and durable, reflecting the truck’s work-oriented nature.
Chassis & Braking
The Canyon II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration balanced ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The front brakes measured 310x27mm, while the rear brakes were 324x18mm. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Canyon II with the 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, towing capacity, and comfortable ride. However, some noted that the engine was somewhat noisy compared to gasoline engines and that the acceleration was not as brisk as some competitors. Compared to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder Canyon, the Duramax offered significantly more power and torque, making it a better choice for those who frequently tow or haul heavy loads. Compared to the 3.6-liter V6, the Duramax provided better fuel economy and low-end torque, but less overall horsepower. Reliability reports indicated that the Duramax engine was generally dependable, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter.
Legacy
The 2.8-liter Duramax engine proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain, and well-maintained examples continue to be sought after in the used car market. The Canyon II, in general, has established a reputation as a capable and versatile mid-size pickup truck. While the diesel variant commanded a higher price than gasoline-powered models, its fuel efficiency and towing capacity made it an attractive option for those who needed a truck for work or recreation. The Canyon II helped to revitalize the mid-size truck segment, demonstrating that there was still a strong demand for smaller, more efficient pickups in the American market.
