(April 13, 2015) CHICAGO — Cars.com has named the 2015 GMC Canyon the winner of its Midsize Pickup Truck Challenge. The challenge pitted four of the most popular 2015 pickup truck models against each other in a series of intensive tests. Trucks tested were the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Z71, 2015 GMC Canyon SLT, 2015 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X and the 2015 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.

"The last time we tested this segment was in 2012 when there were seven midsize pickup trucks, and now just four remain," said Mark Williams, Cars.com's pickup truck expert. "Two of the trucks were all-new entrants, and two are longstanding contestants starting to show their age. While the segment has shrunk, we think there's going to be a resurgence as indicated by two brand-new entries from General Motors and booming pickup truck sales."

The four trucks were tested for a range of capabilities including performance, seating and ergonomics, tech and entertainment, ride quality, visibility, value and off-road capability.

The trucks were taken to the track to be tested for braking and acceleration. They were tested on a true off-road course, and endured a 200-mile mileage drive on varying road types to test for real world fuel economy. Lastly, a real-world pickup truck shopper was brought in to test each of the trucks for overall ride, comfort and features.

"The GMC Canyon scored well throughout our tests, and offered a capable and luxurious ride and feel that clearly separated the it from the rest of the pack," said Williams. "We were especially impressed with its road manners and performance with a full load in the bed. What really sets the Canyon apart from its competitors are its looks and high-end materials, however that comes at a higher price tag than other trucks, like its sister-truck the Chevrolet Colorado."

This is the first win for the GMC Canyon. Its sister-truck, the Chevrolet Colorado was recently named Cars.com's Best Pickup Truck of 2015.