Jim Cook GMC – Can the 2026 GMC Canyon Tow a Camper with Confidence near Marion, NC?
Shoppers who love the mountains want a midsize truck that tows smoothly up steep grades, remains surefooted on winding descents, and makes hitching easier in tight trailhead lots. That is exactly where the 2026 GMC Canyon shines with its torque-rich TurboMax® engine, intuitive ProGrade® Trailering System, and a suite of available camera views designed to simplify every step.
The heart of confident towing is torque. The Canyon’s TurboMax® delivers a best-in-class standard gas engine torque of 430 lb.-ft. and 310 horsepower, supporting a max towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs. when properly equipped. That’s more than enough for many lightweight travel trailers, pop-up campers, and small toy haulers frequenting Western North Carolina’s campsites. Just as important, the torque arrives early to make low-speed control predictable when you are easing up a gravel ramp or backing into a tight site at dusk.
Hitching and monitoring are easier with built-in tech. ProGrade® Trailering System tools and Hitch View help you line up your receiver confidently, while the HD Rear Vision Camera gives you crisp visibility. If you spend weekends exploring dispersed sites off the beaten path, the available up to 10 camera views—including first-in-class underbody cameras with wash systems—offer extra peace of mind when you’re navigating ruts or rocks with a loaded trailer in tow.
Inside, the 11.3-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment System with Google built-in compatibility puts towing apps and navigation within easy reach. The 11.0-inch diagonal Driver Information Center keeps vital data front and center, and the available 6.3-inch multicolor Head-Up Display projects helpful info onto the windshield so you can stay focused on the road. Pair your phone with Wireless Apple CarPlay® or Wireless Android™ Auto to keep maps and messages handy without cable clutter.
To help you plan your first tow near Marion and beyond, use a simple, purposeful checklist that mirrors how seasoned owners prepare for weekend getaways.
- Match your trailer: Confirm loaded trailer weight, tongue weight, and hitch class are within the Canyon’s rated limits
- Balance correctly: Distribute cargo to achieve appropriate tongue weight and reduce sway
- Dial in mirrors and cameras: Set Hitch View and top-down views, then confirm clear sight lines
- Use the right gear: Pack chocks, a torque wrench for lugs, a spare, and basic recovery gear if you explore forest roads
- Practice backing: Use camera guidelines and small steering inputs to ease into your site
Once underway, leverage the Canyon’s control and visibility. The Off-Road Performance Display can show tire pressures and 3D pitch and roll, helpful when towing on uneven ground. If you choose AT4X, selectable front and rear electronic locking differentials and a 3-inch factory lift bolster traction and clearance when you’re easing through washouts or cresting a rocker-lipped campsite entrance. For those who prioritize an upscale interior during long tows, Denali’s Jet Black interior with Teak accents, perforated leather-appointed seating, and Bose® Premium Audio System adds a quiet, refined atmosphere mile after mile.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do the Canyon’s camera views help when towing?
Available up to 10 camera views, including Hitch View and HD Surround Vision, provide multiple perspectives while you align the ball mount, check your connection, and maneuver in tight areas. First-in-class underbody cameras are especially helpful off pavement when you want to see obstacles beneath the truck while pulling a trailer.
Can I tow a camper through mountain passes comfortably?
Yes. The TurboMax® engine’s best-in-class standard gas engine torque of 430 lb.-ft. helps the Canyon pull smoothly up grades and maintain control on descents. Proper loading, tongue weight, and trailer brakes are key to confident performance across Western North Carolina terrain.
Which trim is best for trailering?
All trims benefit from the TurboMax® engine and available ProGrade® Trailering System. Choose based on your terrain and comfort preferences: Elevation for balanced capability and tech, AT4 for adventure-focused tuning, AT4X for maximum off-road traction and clearance, or Denali for premium comfort on long hauls.
Ready to see if the Canyon is a good fit for your camper, boat, or cargo trailer? Visit Jim Cook Chevrolet GMC for a hands-on trailering demo using Hitch View and camera perspectives, and learn how to optimize your setup for local routes and campgrounds. Our team is proudly serving Spruce Pine, Rutherfordton, and Marion with clear guidance tailored to your gear and weekend plans.
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