The Inside

The cabin looks like it's from another truck era, and that's because it is. The Canyon first launched for the 2004 model year, and it hasn't changed a lot on the inside since. Some of the buttons — like the ones for the audio system — look a little crude compared with the newer interiors of GM's full-size trucks. There are also some shoddy trim pieces, like the panel covering the passenger-side front airbag. For the most part, however, the interior is a functional space that's easy to get used to, though I do wish the tilt steering wheel had more range than its few predetermined positions.

While you might think a crew cab would offer comfortable seating for people riding in either the front or rear of the cab, it only fulfills on one end of the deal. Leather-covered front bucket seats are optional, and my test truck had them. They're comfy, if a bit flat — you slide to the side when cornering.

The crew cab's rear bench seat, however, is anything but comfortable. Legroom isn't the problem, as it's manageable for taller people, but the backrest will make your passengers cranky in a hurry — a church pew is more comfortable. The issue is the angle of the backrest, which is nearly vertical and can't be reclined. The situation isn't much better in full-size trucks like the Canyon's big brother, the Sierra, though you can find much more accommodating digs in a model like the Toyota Tundra CrewMax, with its reclining rear bench seat. Now that's what I call living.

    See also:

    Selecting the Alert Timing
    The Collision Alert control is on the steering wheel. Press COLLISION ALERT to set the alert timing to far, medium, near or off. The first button press shows the current control setting on the D ...

    Power Liftgate
    On vehicles with a power liftgate, the vehicle must be in P (Park) to operate. The taillamps flash and a chime sounds when the power liftgate moves. WARNING You or others could be injured if caught ...

    Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces
    Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with water to remove dust and loose dirt. For a more thorough cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap solution. Notice: Soaking or sat ...