GMC Terrain Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.98/5 Average
362 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

For decades, GMC was all about trucks and burly SUVs. But the more recent popularity of car-based crossovers has brought about evolution for the brand, as the GMC Terrain certainly indicates. A small crossover, the Terrain stands out thanks to its stylish cabin, versatile backseat, ample standard features and sophisticated driving manners. Along with its mechanically identical sibling, the Chevrolet Equinox, the Terrain is a smart choice for a new or used crossover.

Current GMC Terrain
The GMC Terrain compact crossover offers a choice of four- or six-cylinder power. The standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder is rated at 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque and comes with a six-speed automatic, while the optional 3.6-liter V6 makes a stout 301 hp and 272 lb-ft, also routed through a six-speed auto. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional across the lineup.

The GMC Terrain boasts a nice ride and handling combination, feeling like a more substantial vehicle than its many rivals. Inside, the Terrain's cabin is impressively quiet, well built and earns top style marks. Fuel economy would seem to be a Terrain strong suit with the four-cylinder engine, given its EPA ratings. But in real-world testing we've found it to be merely average.

Features content is generous, as even the base SLE trim level includes a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, sliding and reclining rear seats, a rearview camera, OnStar emergency communications, satellite radio, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a touchscreen interface. With the latter two items, you can connect to Internet-based features like Pandora and Stitcher radio through a system GMC dubs Intellilink. High-end features such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a lane-departure warning system, a navigation system and premium audio are available as you move up through the SLT and Denali trim levels.

As a family hauler, the Terrain shines. Backseat accommodations are extraordinarily generous by default, and downright limousine-like when you slide that rear seat back. One minor disappointment is the Terrain's 64-cubic-foot maximum cargo capacity, which trails the class leaders despite this crossover's considerable dimensions.

Used GMC Terrain Models
The current-generation GMC Terrain debuted for the 2010 model year and has seen just a few notable changes since. For 2010-'13, the Terrain's power came from a 3.0-liter V6 that was less powerful than the current 3.6-liter engine; it produced 264 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque. A newly standard and updated touchscreen interface arrived for 2012 (previously a touchscreen only came with the optional navigation system), while later that year the Intellilink smartphone integration system debuted. The Denali trim debuted for 2013.

User Reviews:

Showing 161 through 170 of 362.00
  • I Love This Car - 2011 GMC Terrain
    By -

    I lease new automobiles quite often, and this GMC SLT-2 is the most pleasurable car that I have ever had. Its comfort and elegance are top- notch. Because it is a leased car, it did not cost me much more per month to go for the top of the line, a decision that I do not regret in the least. The extras that come with this style is worth the added cost.

  • Great Auto - 2010 GMC Terrain
    By -

    I have driven this Terrain 8000 miles and enjoyed every mile. I have had Park avenues GMC Trucks Olds bravada Roadmasters . This is by far the most enjoyable auto I have ever had. I suspect the folks that are complaining about the mileage have a heavy foot and just want to complain about something so they dont have to take responsibility for the mileage. I have driven through the smokies with this auto and the 4 cylinder has performed well. I have learned how to use the manual shift which helps greatly in mountains and in the city.I always limit the the trans to 5th gear in the city and do the same in the mountains This is a great vehicle and I think Gm is building some great products

  • Back to American - 2011 GMC Terrain
    By -

    I bought a 2011 Terrain after driving Hondas for almost 18 years. Didnt like the style of the CR-V and Pilot was too bulky. Get lots of compliments on the style of the Terrain and interior quality is very good. Picked this over Lexus, Infiniti, and Cadillac. Price was right so time to give American cars another look. So far, so good.

  • Mileage issues - 2010 GMC Terrain
    By -

    I really like my four cylinder, 2010 Gmc Terrain, but it is getting nowhere near the listed mileage of 6.1 L per 100 km.

  • A Great Buy - 2010 GMC Terrain
    By -

    I have had my Terrain 4Cyl now for two months. I am very happy with it. Fun to drive, feels rock solid on the road and delivers good gas mileage. I keep track of every tankful and so far my best mileage is 37 mpg on a highway run and the worst is exactly 30mpg which was a combination of city and highway. However, the engine sounds like a can of marbles when accelerating gently. Sounds like pre-ignition. Dealer says "they all do it." Well, no, they dont. GM is aware of the problem with some of the 4 cyl engines in the Terrain and the Equinox and is planning an ECM upgrade. I have to run the car on Super gas to alleviate the darn noise when accelerating. Other than that, no complaints.

  • 2011 gmc terrain sle-1 AWD - 2011 GMC Terrain
    By -

    Love my new car! rides great very fun to drive! would recommend this car to everyone!

  • Not for the Interstate Hwys - 2010 GMC Terrain
    By -

    The 4 cyl Terrain lacks power to use cruise control on Interstate Hwys if there are any hills at all. The Tach will goes from 2000 to 4000 and roar like hell on any little rise. In town and on flat land highways it performs fine. It is comfortable for driving and looks fine. I suggest, however, if you can afford the extra dollars, buy the 6 cyl.

  • Love My Terrain! - 2011 GMC Terrain
    By -

    Traded my beloved 2005 Town & Country for the Terrain--thought I would miss my van--NOT! The only thing I miss is the power hatch--other than that, nothing. The Terrain drives nice, extremely smooth riding(just about as smooth as my van), the design is oh so cool (as my husband says, it looks "tough"). And I love all the little extras that "didnt cost extra"- -backup camera, bluetooth. And all the leg room in the backseat area-- awesome. We havent quite got the gas mileage as stated we should, but then we only have 700 miles on it. And as for my husband--of course, the 8 speaker Pioneer sound system is the best. We love our Terrain and highly recommend it!

  • Very nice - 2010 GMC Terrain
    By -

    Rides and handles well. Comfortable and roomy. Easy to get in and out of. Surprisingly good performance for a small motor. Drove at interstate speeds and through mountains with 24 mpg avg. (using own calculations). Car has good Visibility.Secure feeling with all the safety features.

  • Keeping track of fuel mileage - 2010 GMC Terrain
    By -

    I have kept track since day one. 15 km to present 8046 km. Driving has been mixed 70/30 city driving. I am averaging 9.474 - 15.67 Ltrs/100 km or 21.89 to 31.98 miles per gallon. My Terrain is a SLE2 AWD 6 cylinder.

GMC Terrain Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area