When it appeared last year, the Canyon put a new face on GMC's mid-size pickup. No more Mr. Nice Guy: The black center grille with its floating GMC logo is surrounded by brightwork that extends to either side of the truck. It separates a complex looking array of lights composed of daytime running lamps, turn indicators, and high and low beams. Unlike the old Sonoma with its rounded lines, the Canyon has an edge. A slight dihedral at the front outer edge of the hood enhances its aggressive appearance.

Whether regular cab, extended cab, or crew cab, the Canyon has a balanced look. The regular and extended cab have 6-foot, 1-inch beds. The crew cab has a 5-foot, 1-inch bed in exchange for its larger cabin. Regular and extended cab models have steps in the rear fender ahead of the rear wheels, making it easier to reach and load things in the front of the bed. Extended cabs have door handles inside the door jam, at the front edge of the rear-hinged doors. Crew cabs have front-hinged rear doors with reach-through door handles that are easy to grip and pull open.

The tailgate can be opened fully (89 degrees) or dropped 57 degrees to provide support (level with the tops of the wheel wells) for a 4x8-foot sheet of plywood.

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