Truck buyers have long since grown accustomed to having tons of customization options. Bed lengths, cab sizes, and powertrains often come in varieties. But if you’re taking a closer look at the new 2023 Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon, prepare for fewer options.
While both are proving to be more than capable trucks, you won’t be able to choose which engine comes with yours. Both trucks only feature one engine option. And here’s why it might make sense.
Single engine option for both trucks
So what is this single-engine option for the 2023 Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon? What edmunds describes, GM moved away from the four-cylinder, V6, and diesel options of the previous model. Now both the Colorado and the Canyon only have one engine. You’ll get the only 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four in every 2023 configuration.
Engine options may be limited, but this 2.7-liter is anything but limited. It can power 237 horsepower, which is about 37 more than the current four-cylinder engine. And it also offers 259 lb-ft of torque and maintains its 3,500-pound towing rating.
In addition, GM says that this new 2.7-liter engine is expected to achieve the same fuel economy as the previous four-cylinder, indicating a vast improvement in consumer value. More engine power with a similar MPG? Yes please.
How GM Explains the Single Engine Option Concept
Chief engineer for the 2023 Chevy Colorado and 2023 GMC Canyon, Nick Katcherian, recently spoke about the engineering decision for the single-engine option. engine1 says the reason behind the corporate decision to offer an engine is quite simple. This 2.7-liter is so good, there’s no need to create a second option. And with its power and fuel efficiency, there was no need for a diesel variant either.
Citing the new engine’s ability to outperform all previous engine designs, GM believes there’s no point in over-complicating things with additional options. Katcherian goes on to say in the interview that “this powertrain has all the torque you need.” He adds, “you get it faster,” going on to share that this new 2.7-liter engine is just an overall improvement over all previous options.
Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon Specifications
Don’t get too discouraged about losing the ability to select your engine. Both the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado still have plenty of other design and trim options, so you can get your personalization solution.
For example, the Colorado will be available with rear- or four-wheel drive. Models will include the WT, LT, Z71, Trail Boss, and ZR2. Colorado’s interior design also gets a significant boost, including a new infotainment screen, gauge cluster and steering wheel. Moonroofs are optional, and those lockable storage boxes come standard on the ZR2.
Similar to the Colorado, the GMC Canyon presents many options for consumers who want to create their perfect truck. Trim levels with various trim options include the Elevation, AT4, Denali, and the new AT4X.
Differentiating the Canyon from its Colorado cousin will also be a host of improvements and technology in the cabin, including an optional head-up display. The Canyon is also more off-road focused, with the four-wheel drive standard above the base model. Each model also gets off-road suspension and a wider track, measuring in at a two-inch increase compared to last year’s Canyon.
The 2023 Chevy Colorado is projected to start around $28,000, while the 2023 GMC Canyon will likely cost more, possibly around $40,000. And while you’ll have to forgo choosing an engine, you won’t be disappointed with this engine for either truck.
RELATED: 2023 Chevy Colorado vs. 2023 GMC Canyon: Which one is right for you?