Overview & Reviews

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:

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  Great car so far - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By julie - March 19 - 4:56 am

  Good car so far, hope it holds up

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  Many great characteristics but a few annoying ones - 2016 GMC Terrain
  By Sensible - February 16 - 10:26 pm

  This is an SUV. Supposed to be suitable for sports and utility use, right? The materials in the cargo area need to be better suited for that use. Even with the factory cargo mat, burrs, dirt, sawdust etc impregnates into the surrounding carpet like on the seat back. Its like Velcro! Vacuuming only pushes it deeper into the fabric. The plastic in the cargo area dents and scratches too easily - materials should be more resilient. Inside of the tailgate should be faced with rubber not semi-hard plastic that is easily damaged. Mechanically this SUV is great. 11k mile and zero issues. Quiet, comfortable ride. Once the 4 cyl engine was broken in, it has adequate power for everyday driving. Controls are easy to see, Bluetooth phone connection was simple. Handle for tilting drivers seat is award to reach when door is closed. Very nice vehicle for road trips. When folded, rear seat has an angle to it which makes loading long items problematic. Should fold flat. I have to go to a side door and pull cargo the rest of the way into the area.

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  Homerun - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By Chad - December 1 - 6:36 pm

  I was looking at the Terrain over the past month as we comparison shopped. We look strongly at the Toyota Venza, Hyundai Santa Fe, Ford Edge and CR-V. But these couldnt match the standard features, comfort, ride and looks that the Terrain had. I had first taken a new Equinox for a drive and even though it is pretty much the same vehicle, I found the Terrain to have better interior finishes and a more confident stance and feel than its Chevy counterpart. I also preferred the red ambient lighting compared to the blue of the Equinox. Also liked the truck looking front end better. Ended up with the SLE-2 V6 in Mocha Steel.

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  Dontbuyone!!! - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By dontbuytheGMCterrai - November 12 - 4:26 pm

  I am disappointed and I feel serious buyers remorse. Had to take it to the dealers twice already. Rides rough and hard to keep in lane. Phone has hollow sound and people ask was that star trac when first starting. Fuel economy - lies - just plain lies, yes I have complain, no response back NEVER - 32mpg.the car on highway at 55mph will only get 25.3 far cry from 32. Next time GMC wants to BK, they can go chapter 7. I dont want to bail them out they are like a bad family member that keeps borrowing money, if you know what I mean

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  2010 Terrain with V6 AWD - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By Jesse - November 7 - 5:33 am

  This a great vehicle. I am taller than most people and find that it has more than enough space for me from leg room to head room. If you are looking for great compact SUV this your car. You cannot beat it when comes to all the features you get for the price.

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  Buy something else - 2018 GMC Terrain
  By Michael - November 3 - 3:13 am

  Buy something else

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  SLE 2 - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By Ronald M - October 12 - 3:53 pm

  I tried to fight off purchasing a new vehicle, but saw the Terrain on the road and loved it. I thought it would be bad on gas,actually gets better mileage than my Saturn I traded, and has much more room. I like it that it can tow my motorcycle or my fishing boat. Last but not least, I get more compliments on this vehicle than any other I have purchased. I seriously was giving up on GM after they dropped Oldsmobile,Saturn and Pontiac, 3 of my last four vehicles. But they hooked me with this dang Terrain and saved a customer. Keep up the good work and Ill stay a customer.

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  Finally a GMC crossover! 4Cyl-FWD-SLE2 - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By K Hoffman - October 11 - 4:20 pm

  I have only had for 10 days now, but so far love it! I have worked for GMC for 10 years and never owned one until now. Finally they have a crossover SUV! I commute 45 miles a day and needed good gas mileage. I did allot of research on many different crossovers before choosing. This has allot to offer and affordable. It has plenty of power for my needs, very comfy/roomy, quiet/smooth ride. Lots of detail in the design. Very stylish and fun to drive!

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  Maybe the Ride with Improve with Time - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By tommygun - September 7 - 2:16 pm

  Traded in 07 GMC Yukon XL. Wanted something to fit in my garage year round -- i.e. a big downsizing move. No need to look for small SUVs - most competing dealers would have lauged me off their lots. Got $1000 for loyalty. 14.2 mpg on first tank. The V6 - 19" chrome wheels make ride way too stiff.

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  Love this dependable vehicle - 2013 GMC Terrain
  By Ann - July 13 - 9:37 am

  I purchased this vehicle new in 2013 and love it. Ride, handling, gas mileage, are great with no complaints.