The 2009 GMC Canyon 4WD is a carryover from the prior model year. This pickup is available in three different cab sizes and can be fitted with either 2WD or 4WD. The intro I4 engine model might be too small for some buyers, but consumers can upgrade to a more powerful I5 selection. The GMC Canyon features an affordable price, generous towing and hauling capabilities, and a sleek exterior design. Nevertheless, those that are looking for a heavy-duty truck will need to look elsewhere, as the Canyon is compact and efficient.

Under the hood, the Canyon can be fitted with either a 185 horsepower 2.9L I4 or a 242 horsepower 3.7L I5. Several other compact pickups on the market have more powerful engines, but the Canyon's 17 city MPG and 23 highway MPG is hard to beat. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, but buyers can upgrade to a four-speed automatic with overdrive if necessary. Unfortunately, traction control is only available on the 2WD automatic transmission models. The Canyon 4WD can handle a payload of up to 1,535-lbs and has a towing capacity of up to 5,500-lbs (extended cab and crew cab trims). However, the regular cab only has a towing capacity of 4,000-lbs, which might disappoint some potential buyers.

Inside, the 2009 GMC Canyon comes standard with cruise control, two auxiliary power outlets, and a tire pressure monitoring system. This system features a digital display in the instrument cluster that continuously monitors the pressure in each tire. It will alert drivers if a tire has too much or too little pressure as well. The OnStar program is included with a free one-year subscription. Buyers can expect instant accident alerts, airbag deployment sensors, hands free calling, and turn-by-turn navigation. However, the turn-by-turn directions are provided by a live OnStar advisor, so some buyers could be disappointed without an LCD screen and digital readout.

Buyers have the opportunity to upgrade their Canyon 4WD with a number of packages like the Sun and Sound Package. This includes a power sunroof, premium sound system, and XM Satellite Radio. However, consumers should be aware that additional packages will tack on fees that can sometimes end up being quite expensive.

Overall, the 2009 GMC Canyon 4WD is a solid pickup built for consumers that only do hauling and towing every once in a while. With a base MSRP of $19,685, the Canyon is comparable with other compact pickups on the market. Nevertheless, without a V6 or V8 engine choice, those that want big power will need to look elsewhere.