What’s Happening with 2021 GM Truck Models?

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt production and supply chains around the world. As a result, many automakers are pressing the pause button on their vehicle development programs. GM told suppliers last month that it was postponing several new models in an effort to conserve cash, including the well-received, redesigned 2021 Escalade. But while full-size SUVs are a major cash cow for the Detroit automaker, its truck lineup presents even more financial potential. So, what’s happening with 2021 GM truck models?

Well, sad to say, the Silverado and Sierra 1500s—which were poised to receive updated interiors for 2021—have been pushed back. And it looks like the planned tech upgrades for the recently-revamped HD trucks are on hold, too. But if you’re in the market for a new midsizer—you’re in luck. According to GM Authority who spoke to sources near the matter, the redesigned GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado are “still on track for their scheduled rollout.”

A true, generational redesign for the Colorado/Canyon isn’t expected until 2023 or 2024, but the automaker serves up some exciting facelifts for the 2021 model year while we wait. Check out the details below.

2021 Chevy Colorado

While it’s remained a respectable offering in the midsize segment, we can all agree: respectable ain’t gonna cut it anymore. With the return of the Ford Ranger and the arrival of the Jeep Gladiator, GM has a lot more to contend with than just a plucky and ultra-reliable Taco.

What’s New?

First up for the 2021 Chevy Colorado is some bold, new styling. Every trim gains a refreshed front fascia and new CHEVROLET embossed logo across the tailgate, replacing the traditional Chevy bowtie on the rear end. The WT, LT, and Z71 trim levels all receive updated center bars, lower fascias, and front skid plates. WT and LT models will also feature all-new gold Chevy bowtie logos, while the Z71 receives a black bowtie logo.

Standard 17-inch wheels are new too, and provide the 2021 Colorado with a more imposing stance, while three new exterior paint colors (Cherry Bomb Tintcoat, Sand Dune Metallic, and a blue Pow Zinga Metallic) offer some personal customization.

Inside and under the hood, the midsizer carries over largely untouched. The current range of engines remains a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6, and an exclusive 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel four-cylinder. The cabin stays comfortable and quiet, with optional leather-appointed heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a Bose sound system. Drivers stay connected with a Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with Apple/Android compatibility and available wireless charging and WiFi hotspot capability.

One big change is that Chevy is cutting the base model, so the 2021 Colorado will now start at the Work Truck trim level. That translates to a significant price increase of about $4,000—on top of an already planned $500 bump. Despite the higher price tag, the Colorado still remains one of the more affordable options in the segment—which says a little something about current truck prices…

Zhuzhed-Up ZR2

The ZR2 off-road performance variant receives the most attention, as Chevy works to create more differentiation between trims, though they too are mostly stylistic.

Like its siblings, the ZR2 trim sees a revised front end—although it will be the only Colorado model to feature the all-new, lettered grille with “flowtie”. Chevy says this new fascia offers drivers better visibility and “looks even more aggressive, which adds to its dynamic, ‘segment of one’ appearance.”

All of the ZR2’s rugged features carry over, including a standard 3.6L V6 engine with best-in-class horsepower, segment-exclusive Multimatic DSSV position-sensitive dampers, standard front and rear electronic locking differentials, a 2-inch suspension lift, 3.5-inch wider track, off-road rocker protection, cast iron control arms, Autotrac transfer case, and multiple skid plates. Joining the list are new, standard red tow hooks.

We won’t deny the new 2021 Colorado certainly looks cooler. But, overall, considering the price increase—and the steep competition—we expected a little more from this refresh.

Meet the UnderCover ArmorFlex

Looking to add a little stylish protection to that Chevy Colorado? Then check out the ArmorFlex, the newest hard-folding truck bed cover from UnderCover.

Using a popular tri-fold design with multiple riding positions, the ArmorFlex offers easy partial or full access to the bed, while a low-profile design lends some modern good looks.

Heavy-duty LINE-X®-coated panels ward off dents and scuffs, and rail channels and drain tubes to move water away from the bed. These features ensure your truck bed and its cargo remain safe and dry—even in the most extreme weather conditions.

A dual-action tailgate seal offers universal tailgate operation, allowing you to close the tailgate with the last panel of the cover-up or down. Plus, the ArmorFlex secures your cargo with the help of a tailgate lock. The only access point is the pull cord underneath to open the cover, so if your tailgate is locked, your cover is locked.

Proudly made in the USA and backed by a 5-year warranty, the ArmorFlex can usually be installed in about 45 minutes with basic hand tools. Plus, the cover is compatible with BedRug, spray-ins and any under-the-rail bed liner, as well as many aftermarket bed caps. Check out the video below to see the ArmorFlex in action.

2021 GMC Canyon

Offering some of the best towing capacity in its class, the GMC Canyon also boasts a cushy interior, great styling, and impressive road manners. We understand how it can get dismissed as a better-dressed Chevy. (After all, you’re getting the same powertrain and capability as the Colorado.) But, it seems GM understands this too, as the automaker serves up a few new trims for 2021 to ensure you can take all that luxury a little further off-road.

What’s New?

AT4 Off-Road

First up, is the addition of a new off-road-ready trim level, the AT4. Replacing the All Terrain variant in the former lineup, the all-new AT4 delivers rugged capability in a premium package.

Accenting the bold styling are dark chrome finishes, a new black chrome grille and grille surround, and plenty of AT4 badging. Rounding out the look are 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires fitted to 17-inch aluminum wheels and, like the ZR2 Colorado, some red recovery hooks. The interior shares a true-to-GMC vibe, with plenty of leather-appointed seating featuring AT4 embroidery on the head restraints and Kalahari stitching.

Meant for adventure, the AT4 does boast some impressive standard equipment, including a 308-hp 3.6L V6 engine, off-road tuned suspension, four-wheel drive, transfer case skid plate, automatic locking rear differential, and Advanced Hill Descent Control.

“The new 2021 Canyon AT4 broadens the appeal to midsize truck customers who live an active lifestyle,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Buick and GMC. “The Canyon AT4 will attract outdoor enthusiasts looking for a premium midsize truck to GMC with the capability, technology and refinement they’ve come to expect.”

We’re inclined to agree!

Denali, Refined

Speaking of refinement, the top-tier Denali trim sees an update for 2021, as well. Tailored sculpting freshens up the iconic, Denali chrome grille, which is nicely complemented by 5-inch chrome assist steps, 20-inch Diamond Cut aluminum wheels, new body-color front and rear bumpers, and LED fog lamps. A new Denali-exclusive color joins the paint lineup, too: Hunter Metallic.

The 2021 Denali sees a new color inside as well (Cocoa/Dark Atmosphere), plus embroidered front head restraints, authentic open-pore ash wood trim, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, soft-touch instrument panel, and leather-appointed six-way front driver and four-way passenger bucket seats.

Tech-wise, customers can enjoy an 8-inch diagonal touch screen with GMC Infotainment System and Navigation, a Bose premium audio system, and standard wireless charging.

New Elevation Trims

Slightly more “outdoorsy-oriented” than “off-road-ready,” the new Elevation and Elevation Standard trim levels aim to bring extra versatility and capability to the 2021 GMC Canyon. Details on these trims remains a little vague, though.

For example, the current Canyon already offers “Elevation Edition” (pictured below) and “California Elevation Special Edition” packages which seem to sport similar features to the new trim, i.e. “more stylish exterior design elements than ever before, including 18-inch black cast aluminum wheels with black GMC center caps and a new bold black front grille with body-color surround.”

There’s no official word on whether or not these packages will merely be absorbed into the new trims or remain available. However, GMC does advertise, via press release, that “styling, premium materials and technology can be elevated even further” by tacking on a point-of-sale package, dubbed High Elevation.

Leveling up to High Elevation brings Jet Black leather-appointed seating, heated driver and front-passenger seats, power driver seat lumbar control, a heated steering wheel, and more confusion about this whole naming convention.

You’ve likely worked out by now that GM is working some trim magic on the 2021 Canyon. For clarification, here’s a helpful breakdown from GM Authority:

Meet the RetraxPRO MX

If you’re really looking to ramp up style and capability on your GMC Canyon, while also protecting your investment, consider adding a new RetraxPRO MX retractable truck bed cover to your setup.

Combining an industrial-strength aluminum construction with an incredibly resilient matte finish, the new RetraxPRO MX not only stands up to your dirty jobs and off-road excursions but also looks stylish in the process. The cover sports a patented low-profile design that keeps it looking factory-fresh, while also providing a firm, dependable seal to help to keep the truck bed dry.

The heavy-duty aluminum slats are engineered to retract into a compact storage container, using a sealed ball-bearing roller system that glides along the rail. This feature translates to easy bed access, without the need for pull straps, Velcro, snaps or springs. Additionally, a unique spiral track system prevents the cover from coming into contact with itself as it opens and closes, ensuring the slats don’t freeze or wear out. The RetraxPRO MX is also key-lockable in any position, ensuring unlimited flexibility in your hauling capacity.

Installs with basic hand tools, works as advertised, and comes backed by a lifetime warranty? We’re pretty sure that’s what you call a win-win-win. Check out the video below to see this top-of-the-line bed cover in action with Retrax’s integrated Trax Rail system. This unique racking system allows for personalized customization above the truck bed cover.

What do you think? Are you excited about GM’s midsize refresh? Or will you be waiting for the next generation to arrive?