History/Overview
Introduced in 2010, the Terrain is GMC’s first compact crossover model. It was redesigned into a second generation in 2018 with sleeker styling and new turbocharged power.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
There are no changes to the Terrain for 2021, but as of this writing GMC is offering only the entry-level SLE trim level. We expect the mid-range SLT and upscale Denali to return later in the 2021 model year.
Available Trims
Terrain SLE comes with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine matched with a nine-speed transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and AWD is available.
Standard Features
Among the Terrain’s exterior and mechanical features are engine auto stop/start, 17-inch aluminum wheels, auto on/off HID headlights, LED signature lighting, passive keyless entry, heated side mirrors, and LED taillights.
Inside, there’s a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple and Android smartphone integration, push-button start, active noise cancellation, heated front seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, passive keyless entry, a 4.2-inch driver info screen, a six-speaker stereo, dual-zone A/C, heated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The standard package of driver safety assists comprises automatic high beams, forward collision alert with automatic braking, following distance indicator, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and tire pressure monitoring.
Key Options
An infotainment package adds an 8.0-inch touchscreen with navigation, satellite radio, a 110-volt power outlet, and extra USB ports. A Pro Grade package combines those features with a sunroof.
The Pro Safety Plus pack brings blind spot monitoring with lane change assist, adaptive cruise control, and mirror-mounted turn signals.
An Elevation package gets 19-inch wheels and tires and black exterior trim. There’s also a bright exterior trim pack that adds chrome to the grille, side mirrors and rear bumper protector.
Fuel Economy
GMC’s fuel consumption estimates for the Terrain are 9.2/7.8 L/100 km (city/highway) with front-wheel drive, and 9.6/8.3 with AWD.
Competition
As a compact crossover, the Terrain faces off against a wide range of competitive models. Those include popular Japanese models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue. GMC’s biggest domestic competitor is the Ford Escape, but it also goes up against another GM model, the Chevrolet Equinox. South Korea has two entries here in the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. Germany competes here, too, with the Volkswagen Tiguan.