The 2008 GMC Canyon 2WD is a truck that carries on the trend of auto makers replacing their compact trucks with slightly larger models. GMC watched this trend along with everyone else, and a few years ago they supplanted their Sonoma with the Canyon, just as Chevrolet replaced the S10 with the Colorado. The truth is, people just weren't buying compact trucks. The vehicles had all the liabilities of a truck. They got worse gas mileage than cars, and were harder to maneuver within the city. However, the compacts had none of the pros of a true truck, being not large enough to be truly useful as a work vehicle.

The GMC Canyon was the manufacturer's fairly successful response to this consumer need. The midsize truck is not so large that it feels ridiculous taking the kids to school in it, but the 185 hp that the smaller engine model provides makes a person feel like they are driving a vehicle that can still be put to work. Of course, for those that need a little more bang for their buck, there is also a 3.7L engine option that will put out 242 hp instead.

The Canyon 2WD was timely in its arrival, just when most automakers realized they needed to have a strong competitor in the midsize truck market. Chevrolet also put out its Colorado, and the two vehicles have much in common in terms of the market they appeal to.

Trucks have been known to fall somewhat short in terms of elegance and comfort features but, with several different option packages available, the Canyon does not too bad of a job of offering customers what they want. With the possibility of leather bucket seats, XM satellite radio and other technological, a consumer can personalize this truck very nicely. While the 2008 Canyon might not be offering a luxury ride, it certainly offers enough to satisfy the needs of most people that are looking at a truck in this price range.

The 2008 GMC Canyon 2WD looks very similar to the 2007 model. The trucks are easily identified through the distinctive GMC style grille along with the nameplate that is featured in the center of the grille. It's an appealing enough truck visually, with just enough character to keep it from blending into the woodwork.

Of course, the greatest downfall of a vehicle this size is the gas mileage. With rising fuel costs, it is hard to justify using a vehicle on a regular basis that can get only 15mpg in the city. However, the Canyon 2WD can get slightly better fuel efficiency if the driver is using the manual transmission, rather than the optional automatic, but it is still very hard to justify that gas use unless this is a vehicle that is truly needed for work.

So, as far as trucks go, the 2008 GMC Canyon 2WD measures up fairly well. It's attractive, powerful enough and has some nice options. These factors just have to be weighed carefully against what the actual purpose of using the vehicle is to truly justify the purchase of a Canyon. Therefore, for those who need a perfect midsize truck, the 2008 GMC Canyon 2WD can be a great fit. Those who really don't require a midsize truck should stick to more fuel efficient and cost effective vehicles.