GMC Terrain Model Review
GMC Terrain
Key Features
- Starting at $29,900 MSRP*
- Standard 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine (175 HP / 203 LB-FT TQ) and CVT (FWD models) or 8-speed automatic (AWD models)
- 15-inch diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment System and 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center
- Standard GMC Pro Safety (suite over 15 driver-assist technologies)
- Available perforated-leather seat upholstery with heating/ventilation functions for front seats
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Wireless Android Auto capability for compatible phones
- OnStar® & GMC Connected Services capable
- Available Black Edition package with blacked-out exterior design cues
About The GMC Terrain
The Terrain brings a high level of comfort and functionality to the compact segment. The Terrain shares a platform with the Chevrolet Equinox, but sets itself apart with bolder styling and a more luxurious interior. The Terrain is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that expertly balances power and efficiency. All-wheel drive is available, and the AT4 gives you a much higher level of off-road capability than you’ll find in competing compact SUVs. If you prefer a more luxury-oriented version, the Denali takes the already impressive looks and feel of the Terrain to a whole new level. With a surprising amount of cargo space and an available hands-free power liftgate, the Terrain also stands out in the area of practicality.
What the Critics Say
“It looks terrific, offers plenty of passenger room, and has a long list of standard advanced safety features. And its slick portrait-oriented touchscreen gives the interior of the Terrain a design that’s distinct from its corporate cousin, the Chevy Equinox.” — Edmunds
“With gruff styling reminiscent of GMC’s macho pickups, the Terrain is a compact SUV with truck-like attitude. From straight on, the boxy mini-ute looks similar to the giant GMC Sierra, but with a rear hatch and adequately sized cargo hold around back instead of a bed.” — Car & Driver
What’s New for 2026
The Terrain got an extensive redesign for 2025, but it included just one trim, the Elevation. So GMC brought out the 2026 model early with two new trims, the AT4 and the Denali. In keeping with GMC naming conventions, the AT4 is an off-road-focused trim, while the Denali elevates the level of luxury, and both come with standard all-wheel drive.
GMC Terrain Features
Sleek Styling & Capable Performance
Depending on the trim and options, the Terrain can be a daily commuter, an off-road-ready adventure vehicle, or a luxury highway cruiser, with styling that works extremely well for all of these functions and more. Power comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 175 horsepower and can tow up to 1,500 pounds, depending on equipment. Front-wheel drive versions come with a CVT, while all-wheel drive versions are equipped with an 8-speed automatic. If you opt for the AT4 off-road trim, it comes with a dedicated “Terrain” driving mode designed for dirt and mud. It also comes with a set of all-terrain tires, tow hooks, and a front skid plate. The Denali comes with a bigger set of wheels and striking exterior chrome trim.
Luxurious Interior
Even more than the bold exterior styling, it’s the well-appointed interior of the Terrain that sets it apart from its Chevrolet platform-mate, the Equinox. Quality materials are found throughout the cabin, and things like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard. Active Noise Cancellation is also standard, and it makes the Terrain a luxuriously quiet place to sit. Each trim has its own seat upholstery material that is specific to the task the trim was designed for. For Elevation models, you find seats covered in premium cloth. The AT4 uses the easily washable CoreTec upholstery, so you don’t need to worry about it coming home from an outdoor adventure. And the Denali comes with leather upholstery to accommodate the breathable perforated surface.
Cutting-Edge Technology & Safety
One of the first things you’re likely to notice about the interior of the Terrain is the large 15-inch touchscreen, your control for the GMC Premium Infotainment System. This system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Google built-in is offered as an option. Additional available convenience features include Traffic Sign Recognition and HD Surround Vision. Safety is big for the Terrain, and it comes with features like Blind Zone Steering Assist, Hill Descent Control, Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, and Reverse Automatic Braking, all as standard equipment. The Trailering Package, which comes standard on both the AT4 and Denali, adds a trailer hitch and Hitch Guidance with Hitch View to help you take the guesswork out of hooking up your trailer.
Trims & Specs
Elevation
- Starting at $29,900 MSRP*
- 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine (175 HP / 203 LB-FT TQ) with your choice of standard FWD or available AWD
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility
- 15-inch diagonal GMC Premium Infotainment System with available Google built-in
- Premium cloth seat upholstery
- 11-inch Driver Information Center multi-color digital high-contrast display
AT4
- Starting at $38,600 MSRP*
- All-wheel drive
- AT4-exclusive selectable Terrain drive mode
- Lifted ride height with red front recovery hooks
- Front skid plate with steel underbody shield
- 17″ Dark Machined aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires
Denali
- Starting at $41,100 MSRP*
- Heated and ventilated front and heated rear outboard seats
- Animated headlamps and taillamps
- High Definition Surround Vision and Rear Camera Mirror
- 19″ Midnight Silver machined-face aluminum wheels and all-season tires
- Available Panoramic sunroof
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
