When you’re shopping for a compact SUV, a key question you might ask is, is the GMC Terrain a good car? The GMC Terrain positions itself as a more premium option among compact SUVs, warranting a closer look. This review will break down its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
We’ll examine everything from performance and fuel economy to interior comfort and technology. You’ll get a clear picture of where the Terrain excels and where it might fall short compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Is The Gmc Terrain A Good Car
Overall, the GMC Terrain is a good car, particularly for buyers who value a comfortable ride, a quiet cabin, and a premium feel in a practical package. It stands out with its distinctive styling and user-friendly features. However, it does have some compromises in areas like rear-seat space and engine power that you should consider.
Its goodness depends heavily on your priorities. If you want the most engaging drive or the most cargo room, other options exist. But for a daily commuter that feels a bit more upscale, the Terrain makes a strong case for itself.
Key Strengths Of The GMC Terrain
- Smooth and comfortable ride quality
- Quiet, well-insulated interior
- Upscale cabin materials and design
- Excellent standard safety technology
- User-friendly infotainment system
Notable Weaknesses Of The GMC Terrain
- Underwhelming base engine performance
- Rear seat and cargo space are just average
- Higher trim levels can get expensive
- All-wheel drive impacts fuel efficiency
Performance And Engine Options
The GMC Terrain offers two turbocharged engine choices. Understanding these helps you gauge if its performance matches your driving style.
Standard 1.5-Liter Turbo Engine
Every Terrain comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It produces 175 horsepower and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available.
This engine is adequate for city driving and highway merging, but it can feel strained under heavy acceleration. The transmission is generally smooth, though it can sometimes hesitate when downshifting. For most daily uses, it provides sufficient power while prioritizing fuel economy.
Available 2.0-Liter Turbo Engine
For more power, you can opt for the available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine generates a much more robust 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It uses the same nine-speed automatic transmission.
The difference is noticeable. The 2.0-liter engine provides confident passing power and feels more suited to the vehicle’s size. If you frequently carry passengers or cargo, or simply enjoy a more responsive drive, this engine is worth the upgrade. Keep in mind it does come with a slight fuel economy penalty.
Real-World Fuel Economy
The EPA estimates for the Terrain are competitive. With the 1.5L FWD, you can expect around 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The 2.0L and AWD models will see those numbers drop slightly. Your actual mileage will depend on driving habits, but most owners report the estimates are fairly accurate.
Interior Comfort And Design
Step inside the GMC Terrain, and you’ll immediately notice its focus on a premium atmosphere. This is a key area where it differentiates itself from more utilitarian competitors.
Front Seat Comfort And Space
The front seats are supportive and offer good adjustability, even on lower trims. Higher trims add luxury features like heated and ventilated seats, along with leather upholstery. The driving position is commanding, with clear sightlines out the front and sides.
Materials throughout the cabin are generally soft-touch and of high quality. GMC does a good job minimizing hard plastics in areas you frequently see and touch. The overall design is clean and modern, with intuitive button layouts.
Rear Seat And Cargo Practicality
This is one of the Terrain’s weaker points. While adequate for average-sized adults, the rear legroom is less generous than in segment leaders. Three adults across the back seat will feel cramped on longer journeys.
The cargo area is also just average for the class. It offers 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.3 cubic feet with them folded. The load floor is flat, which is helpful, but competitors offer more space. Consider your typical passenger and cargo needs carefully here.
Technology And Infotainment
GMC equips the Terrain with a modern and straightforward tech suite. The system is easy to learn, which is a significant advantage.
GMC Infotainment System
All models feature a standard 8-inch touchscreen. The system has crisp graphics and quick response times. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Physical knobs for volume and tuning remain, which is a blessing for easy operation while driving.
Higher trims like the SLT and Denali offer a larger 8-inch digital driver information display and a premium Bose audio system. The navigation system is effective, though most drivers will likely rely on their phone’s maps via CarPlay or Android Auto.
Standard And Available Safety Tech
Every GMC Terrain comes with a impressive suite of standard safety features called GMC Pro Safety. This includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Alert
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- IntelliBeam automatic high beams
- Following Distance Indicator
Available upgrades include Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a HD Surround Vision camera system. The safety offering is comprehensive and competitive, providing good peace of mind.
Reliability And Ownership Costs
Considering long-term costs is crucial when determining if any vehicle is a good investment.
Predicted Reliability Ratings
Recent model years of the GMC Terrain have shown average to above-average reliability ratings from major automotive publishers. It’s important to check the specific model year you’re considering, as early models of the current generation had more reported issues.
GMC offers a standard 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This is fairly standard for the industry, though some competitors offer longer coverage.
Fuel And Maintenance Expenses
The Terrain requires regular unleaded gasoline, which is a plus over some rivals that need premium fuel. Scheduled maintenance costs are typical for the segment. GMC often offers prepaid maintenance plans that can help budget for these expenses.
Insurance costs for the Terrain are generally in line with other compact SUVs. Its strong safety ratings can sometimes help lower premiums. Always get a few insurance quotes based on your specific location and driving history before purchasing.
How It Compares To Key Rivals
To truly answer if the Terrain is a good car, you need to see how it stacks up against the competition.
GMC Terrain Vs. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is often the sales leader for good reason. It typically offers more rear-seat and cargo space, slightly better fuel economy, and a reputation for stellar reliability. However, the Terrain fights back with a quieter, more premium-feeling interior and a smoother standard ride. The CR-V’s cabin uses more hard plastics, and its infotainment system can be less intuitive.
GMC Terrain Vs. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is known for its rugged styling and bulletproof reliability. It often has a slight edge in cargo space and offers a potent hybrid option the Terrain lacks. The Terrain, again, provides a more refined cabin experience and a less truck-like ride. The RAV4’s interior can be noisy, and its base engine feels less powerful than the Terrain’s optional 2.0L.
GMC Terrain Vs. Chevrolet Equinox
This is the most direct comparison, as they share a platform and engines. The Equinox is usually priced slightly lower and offers very similar mechanicals. The Terrain justifies its higher cost with better interior materials, more sound insulation, and more standard features. It’s the more luxurious sibling of the two.
Who Should Buy The GMC Terrain?
The GMC Terrain is an excellent choice for a specific type of buyer. It will suit you well if your priorities include:
- A comfortable, quiet ride for daily commuting
- A cabin that feels more upscale than the average compact SUV
- Straightforward, easy-to-use technology
- Strong standard safety features
- Distinctive, bold exterior styling
You might want to look elsewhere if you regularly need to transport tall adults in the back seat, require maximum cargo capacity, or prioritize the absolute lowest cost of ownership. The base engine’s performance may also disappoint drivers who enjoy spirited acceleration.
Final Verdict
So, is the GMC Terrain a good car? The answer is a qualified yes. It successfully delivers on its promise of a more premium compact SUV experience. Its strengths in ride comfort, cabin refinement, and user-friendly tech are significant.
Its compromises in rear-seat space and the base engine’s performance are real but may not be deal-breakers for everyone. We recommend test-driving the Terrain with the 2.0-liter engine if possible and paying close attention to the back seat space with your typical passengers. For shoppers who value a serene and stylish daily driver, the GMC Terrain is a compelling and good option that stands out from the crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The GMC Terrain Reliable?
Recent model years of the GMC Terrain have average to good predicted reliability ratings. It’s wise to avoid the first model year of the current generation and research specific year-by-year ratings. Proper maintenance is key to long-term durability.
What Are Common Problems With The GMC Terrain?
Some reported issues across various model years include occasional transmission hesitations, minor electrical gremlins with infotainment systems, and some early build quality concerns. Always have a used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase.
How Does The GMC Terrain Perform In Safety Tests?
The GMC Terrain has earned top marks in safety. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS when equipped with specific headlights. Its standard safety suite is very comprehensive.
Is The GMC Terrain Expensive To Maintain?
Maintenance costs for the GMC Terrain are typical for a compact SUV. They are generally lower than luxury European rivals but might be slightly higher than some Japanese competitors over a long ownership period. Following the factory maintenance schedule is crucial.
Which GMC Terrain Trim Is The Best Value?
The mid-level SLT trim often offers the best balance of features and cost. It adds desirable amenities like leather seats, a power liftgate, and enhanced driver aids without reaching the premium price of the top Denali trim. The base SLE is well-equipped for budget-conscious buyers.