2016 GMC Canyon
Bed Covers
Protect your second-generation Canyon with the perfect tonneau cover. Diesel-ready, trail-tough, and built for the first full year of Duramax power.
The Definitive Guide to 2016 GMC Canyon Tonneau Covers
The 2016 GMC Canyon cemented the second generation as a powerhouse in the midsize truck segment. With three distinct powertrains and a rapidly expanding accessories market, Canyon owners had more reasons than ever to invest in a quality bed cover. Whether you drove the efficient 2.5L four-cylinder, the robust 3.6L V6, or the torque-rich 2.8L Duramax diesel in its first full production year, a tonneau cover delivered measurable benefits in fuel economy, cargo security, and overall truck aesthetics.
As the aftermarket for Canyon accessories grew throughout the 2016 model year, manufacturers responded with an impressive array of bed cover options tailored to this truck's dimensions. The result is a mature market where buyers can choose from soft roll-ups, hard tri-folds, retractable panels, and hinged one-piece covers, all engineered for a bolt-free, clamp-on installation that preserves the factory bed finish.
Available in SLE, SLT, and All Terrain trims, the 2016 Canyon appealed to a broad ownership base. A bed cover is one of the single best upgrades you can make, regardless of which trim level or bed length you own. Below, you will find everything you need to know about choosing the right cover for your truck.
2016 Canyon Bed Dimensions and Fitment
Accurate measurements are the foundation of a proper tonneau cover fit. The 2016 GMC Canyon ships with two bed configurations, and every cover on the market is designed around these exact dimensions.
5'2" Short Bed
The short bed measures 61.7 inches from the bulkhead to the tailgate. It pairs with the Crew Cab body style, giving owners maximum passenger room with a compact but highly usable cargo area. Most tonneau cover manufacturers list this as a 5-foot bed in their fitment guides.
6'2" Long Bed
The long bed stretches to 74.0 inches and comes with the Extended Cab configuration. This extra foot of cargo length is ideal for hauling longer items. When shopping for a cover, make sure you match the 6-foot bed specification exactly.
Both beds share the same width between the wheel wells at 44.9 inches, so accessories like bed organizers and toolboxes are interchangeable. The bed depth measures approximately 20.9 inches, providing ample volume whether you choose a flush-mount or above-rail cover design. Always verify your cab style and bed length on the driver-side door jamb sticker before ordering.
Tonneau Cover Types for the 2016 Canyon
Each cover type balances security, access, cost, and appearance differently. Understanding these trade-offs helps you select the style that matches your daily routine and budget.
Soft Roll-Up Covers
Soft roll-up tonneau covers remain the most popular choice for 2016 Canyon owners seeking a balance of affordability and functionality. Constructed from heavy-duty vinyl stretched over aluminum crossbars, these covers roll toward the cab in seconds, granting full bed access when you need it. Installation takes roughly 20 minutes with no drilling required. Budget-conscious buyers often start here because prices typically range from $250 to $450. While they do not offer the same theft deterrence as hard covers, quality vinyl resists UV damage, rain, and snow effectively.
Hard Tri-Fold Covers
For Canyon drivers who want solid panel security with folding convenience, hard tri-folds are the sweet spot. Three rigid aluminum or fiberglass panels fold toward the cab, allowing two-thirds or full bed access. These covers lock flush with the bed rails and can support light loads on top when fully closed. The 2016 Canyon's growing aftermarket made hard bed covers widely available in both matte black and painted-to-match finishes. Expect to invest between $600 and $1,000 for a quality hard tri-fold.
Retractable Covers
Retractable tonneau covers slide open along low-profile rails, stacking into a compact canister behind the cab. This design delivers the best combination of security and instant access because you can lock the cover at any position along the bed. Premium models feature aluminum slat construction that can hold hundreds of pounds of on-top weight. Retractable covers sit at the higher end of the price spectrum, typically $900 to $1,800, but many 2016 Canyon owners consider them worth the investment for the seamless look and daily usability.
Hinged One-Piece Covers
Hinged covers lift on gas struts from the rear, similar to a trunk lid. They offer excellent weather sealing and a sleek, factory-look profile. However, full bed access requires propping the lid open, which adds height to the truck. These work best for owners who haul smaller items and prioritize maximum weather protection over oversized cargo flexibility.
Key Features for 2016 Canyon Bed Covers
The 2016 model year coincided with a growing accessories market for the second-generation Canyon. Here are the features that matter most when selecting a tonneau cover for this truck.
Duramax Diesel Compatibility
With the 2.8L Duramax diesel completing its first full production year in 2016, many owners chose this powertrain for its impressive 369 lb-ft of torque and strong towing capability. Every tonneau cover fits identically regardless of engine choice, but diesel owners especially appreciate the aerodynamic fuel savings a cover provides at highway speed.
Weather Sealing and Drainage
Quality covers use EPDM rubber seals along the side rails and tailgate to keep rain, snow, and dust from reaching cargo. Look for models with integrated drain tubes that channel water away from the bed through the existing bed drain holes at each corner.
No-Drill Clamp Installation
Nearly all modern tonneau covers for the 2016 Canyon use clamp-on rail systems that grip the bed rail without drilling. This preserves your factory finish and allows removal for situations where you need the entire bed open, such as hauling furniture or appliances.
All Terrain Trim Considerations
If you own the 2016 Canyon All Terrain trim, you likely use your truck off-road. Choose a cover that can handle vibration, trail dust, and sudden rain. Hard tri-folds and retractable covers provide the durability rugged driving demands.
Installation Guide for the 2016 GMC Canyon
One of the biggest advantages of modern tonneau covers is straightforward, tool-minimal installation. Most 2016 Canyon owners complete the process in their driveway without professional help.
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1
Unbox and inventory all parts against the included hardware list. Lay the cover panels or roll out the fabric on a clean surface to inspect for shipping damage.
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2
Position the clamp rails on the bed rails, aligning them front to rear. Hand-tighten the clamps first, leaving enough play to adjust lateral alignment before final torque.
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3
Set the cover onto the rails and check that it sits flush with the cab and tailgate. Adjust the rail position as needed so the cover seals evenly on all four sides.
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4
Torque all clamps to the manufacturer's specification. Connect any drain hoses to the bed drain holes and route them away from moving parts.
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5
Test the operation several times, open and close, fold and unfold, to confirm smooth movement and secure latching. Spray water along the seals to verify drainage.
The entire process typically takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on cover type. Hard tri-fold and retractable models may take slightly longer due to additional hardware. No cutting, drilling, or permanent modifications are needed for the 2016 Canyon.
Benefits of a Bed Cover on the 2016 Canyon
Improved fuel efficiency ranks as the most measurable benefit. Closing the open bed reduces aerodynamic drag at highway speeds, and many 2016 Canyon owners report gaining 1 to 3 MPG after installation. Over thousands of miles, those savings offset a meaningful portion of the cover's purchase price, especially for diesel owners already optimizing every gallon.
Cargo security keeps tools, gear, and personal items hidden from view and locked away from opportunistic theft. A tonneau cover transforms your open bed into a sealed storage vault that rivals an SUV's enclosed cargo area.
Weather protection is critical for owners in regions with heavy rain, snow, or dust. High-quality seals prevent moisture from reaching cargo, and the cover itself shields against UV damage that can fade bed liners and stored items over time.
Enhanced resale value is another practical advantage. A well-maintained truck with a quality tonneau cover signals to buyers that the vehicle has been cared for. The cover protects the bed from scratches, dings, and weather wear that lower trade-in offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 2016 GMC Canyon is available with a 5-foot 2-inch short bed (61.7 inches) paired with the Crew Cab, or a 6-foot 2-inch long bed (74.0 inches) paired with the Extended Cab. Measure your bed or check the door jamb sticker before purchasing a tonneau cover to ensure the correct fit.
Absolutely. The 2.8L Duramax diesel was in its first full production year for 2016, and tonneau covers are fully compatible with every Canyon powertrain. Bed dimensions remain identical whether you have the diesel, the 2.5L I4, or the 3.6L V6. Diesel owners often see the biggest benefit from improved aerodynamics at highway cruising speeds.
Many 2016 Canyon owners report a 1 to 3 MPG improvement after installing a tonneau cover. The closed bed surface smooths airflow that would otherwise tumble into the open bed at highway speeds, reducing aerodynamic drag. The exact gain depends on driving conditions, speed, and cover type, with flush-mount and retractable covers generally offering the largest improvement.
All Terrain owners who tackle off-road trails benefit most from a hard tri-fold or retractable cover. These styles withstand vibration, trail debris, and heavy rain better than soft roll-up covers. The rigid panel construction locks cargo securely and resists the bumps and jolts that come with off-road driving. If budget is a concern, a high-quality soft tri-fold with reinforced hinges is a solid alternative.
Find the Right Cover for Your 2016 Canyon
Browse our curated selection of tonneau covers designed for the 2016 GMC Canyon short and long bed configurations.
Also explore: 2017 Canyon Covers