Head-to-Head: the 2026 GMC Canyon vs the 2026 Toyota Tacoma

If you want a capable pickup but not a full-size or heavy-duty truck, the 2026 GMC Canyon and the 2026 Toyota Tacoma will quickly emerge as top contenders. With that in mind, a comparison of the GMC Canyon vs Toyota Tacoma is inevitable. Luckily, we've already compared the pickups so you can see why the GMC truck at Gillman Chevrolet GMC is the better pick between the two.

Engines

Both the 2026 GMC Canyon and the non-hybrid Toyota Tacoma are available with one engine, with the one motivating the Toyota pickup offered in two states of tune. In low-output form, the Toyota pickup's engine produces 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. That engine is standard in the Toyota pickup's base trim, but higher models come with the high-output powerplant. That engine generates 278 or 270 horsepower and 317 or 310 lb-ft of torque depending on the truck's drivetrain.

Even the Toyota pickup's high-output engine can't deliver as much oomph as the powerplant that's standard for the GMC Canyon. A turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine powers the GMC truck, and it produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. That increase in power makes the GMC Canyon more capable than its rival.

Towing

More specifically, the 2026 GMC Canyon can tow more weight than the Toyota Tacoma can manage. With the right equipment, the GMC truck can tow up to 7,700 lbs. The maximum tow rating for the Toyota pickup is a comparatively scant 6,500 lbs., which is 1,200 lbs. short of the GMC truck's rating.

Standard Equipment

While new GMC trucks are made to work, they're also thoughtfully appointed with desirable features that competing pickups often lack. Whereas the Toyota Tacoma has an eight-inch touchscreen and a seven-inch digital gauge display, the 2026 GMC Canyon has an 11.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch digital gauge cluster. The Toyota truck's four-speaker sound system pales in comparison to the GMC pickup's six-speaker stereo.

The Teen Driver system is standard for the GMC Canyon. That system enables you to set parameters for other operators, such as a maximum speed limit. No matter how far you make your way through the Toyota Tacoma lineup, you won't find a comparable feature.

Choose the 2026 GMC Canyon in San Benito, TX

Are you eager to own or lease the superior truck? If so, visit our San Benito, TX GMC dealership to get a 2026 GMC Canyon. So you'll be ready to bring the pickup home today, apply for GMC financing now.