Special edition trucks are all the rage these days and General Motors->ke1024 is on the leading edge of the trend. The automaker’s latest case is the GMC->ke32 Canyon Nightfall Edition. It combines the also-popular monochrome “murdered” look with some extra features that don’t normally come standard. Still at the foundation is the new-for-2015 Canyon midsize truck with two engine, transmission, and drive wheel options, along with numerous cab and bed configurations. Selecting the Nightfall Edition, however, means first choosing the mid-range SLE trim level with the crew cab. Obviously, the truck->ke242 only comes in black.

So what’s included? Well, things like a unique black grille, dark painted 18-inch aluminum wheels, black side steps, and a polished exhaust tip. Other non-cosmetic changes include a spray-in bedliner, automatic climate control, the remote start system, rear view camera, and the eight-inch IntelliLink infotainment system.

The SLE trim package already adds some relevant features important to the modern truck buyer, including the G80 automatic locking rear differential on four-wheel-drive models, the auto-dimming rear view mirror, and SiriusXM radio.

Like its corporate twin, the Chevrolet Colorado, the Canyon offers other options for further customization. One of the most interesting is the GearOn cargo management system for the bed. Multiple accessories like dividers and cargo racks for skis and kayaks can be attached to the GearOn bed rails.

Such niceties as these reinforce the fact trucks are purchased more as a lifestyle choice than a necessity. GMC’s Sales and Marketing vice president Duncan Aldred reiterates this. “The Canyon is a lifestyle enabler and its accessories lineup matches lifestyles of all types,” he says. “The accessories take their inspiration from how customers use their vehicle.”

Click past the jump to read more about the GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition.

2015 GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 306
  • Torque: 269
  • Transmission: six-speed automatic
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The Nightfall Edition is all about looks. The dark tones present on the truck replace bright chrome work and trim, making it a more imposing machine. Save for the wheels, the truck takes after the monochromatic “murdered-out” style. The black front grille and side steps really pull the look together.

Standing out from the black background are the LED-infused headlights, lower fog lights, and the bright red GMC logo. Touches of chrome still remain on the doors with the Canyon badge and the trim work under the side windows.

Interior

Standard Canyon interior shown

Things on the inside follow the “business as usual” approach. The color schemes and hues are all standard production, but still match the exterior theme. The options list is where all the changes reside. The Nightfall Edition basically packages together some of the Canyon’s more popular features in a one-box check-off. Included is the upgraded infotainment system with satellite radio and the rear-view camera, a leather-covered steering wheel, the auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot.

Drivetrain

While the Canyon does come standard with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder, selecting the Nightfall Edition means getting the SLE trim package. Coming standard with that is the 3.6-liter V-6. The all-aluminum engine makes 306 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque on regular gas thanks to direct injection and variable valve timing. In a 2WD truck, the engine is capable of achieving an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Selecting the 4WD options costs one mpg on the city rating and two on the highway side.

A six-speed automatic transmission is the only option with the V-6. It offers a manual shift mode and Tow/Haul Mode for managing the truck’s 7,000-pound maximum towing capacity.

Prices

GMC has yet to announce pricing information on the Nightfall Edition option. However, the SLE trim package and crew cab configuration on which it’s based has a starting price of $29,460. Expect to pay an additional $1,000 or so when checking the Nightfall option box.

Competition

Chevrolet Colorado

There’s nothing like a little sibling rivalry. The GMC’s fraternal twin, the Colorado, has its own set of options and color combinations – black being one of them. While the Colorado doesn’t have a specific special edition to match the GMC’s Nightfall, the Chevy can be customized with all the optional features and accessories. Plus, it’s only a matter of time before Chevy announces special editions for the its midsize truck.

The Colorado enjoys the same two powertrains as the GMC. Cab and bed configurations are the same as well. For those looking for extra towing power or fuel efficiency, 2016 promises the release of the 2.8-liter Duramax four-cylinder turbodiesel for both trucks.

Pricing for the Colorado generally undercuts the higher-marketed GMC. Expect to pay $27,985 for the mid-level LT trim package in the crew cab, short bed configuration.

Toyota Tacoma

The Tacoma is on the brink of replacement for the 2016 model year. But while we wait on that truck to hit showrooms, we have to stick with the current generation. Also offered in a crew cab configuration, the Tacoma offers plenty of capability and functionality, but lacks similar special edition visual packages like the GM trucks do. Of course, Toyota offers such things as the TRD Pro version of the Tacoma, which makes the pickup into a near Baja-ready off-roader with upgraded shocks, wheels, tires, and skidplating.

Powering the majority of Tacomas is the 4.0-liter V-6. The venerable engine has seen its fair share of decades pass by but still offers decent power and fuel economy. Rated at 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, the V-6 is capable of towing up to 6,500 pounds. The EPA rates it at 17 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for 2WD models equipped with the five-speed automatic transmission.

Prices start at $17,875 for the base truck in single cab configuration and goes north, topping out at $28,285 for the Double Cab 4WD with the long bed.

Conclusion

With trucks being associated with active lifestyles more than farm or construction equipment, it’s no wonder automakers are pouring so much attention into making more appealing option packages for these work horses. The Nightfall Edition package not only adds some uniquely good looks, but also groups together some pretty desirable electronic, mechanical, and functional options not otherwise found in the same place at once – unless ordered A la carte, of course.