New 2024 GMC Terrain Compact SUV Review

2024 GMC Terrain 5-seater compact SUV that has stayed fresh from the redesign includes the addition of an off-road-themed AT4 trim to the lineup. Upgrades to a new bolder exterior and a large front grille flanked by eye-catching LED headlights.

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With a long lineup of standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that sends 170 horsepower to the front wheels or all four.

Terrain’s modest acceleration is offset by some excellent fuel economy figures. Many SUV buyers will be happier with better MPG than the acceleration rate of a sports car.

The roomy cabin and user-friendly infotainment system are complemented by some cheesy-looking plastic trim here and there, along with the awkward push-button shifter controls located on the dashboard.

2024 GMC Terrain Review

Talking about the 2024 Terrain as outlined in a GM Authority Opinion Desk report published earlier this month, General Motors needs a rival Ford Bronco Sport, and that’s pretty bad.

While GM seems content to let Ford and Jeep out of the rugged compact crossover segment, The General could benefit greatly from offering something to rival the new Ford Bronco Sport.

Now, GM Authority is visualizing it with its next-generation rendering of GMC Terrain 2025.

Coming to us from GM Authority reader and friend Brandon L. DeJean, who also provided us with possible future renderings of the Chevy Impala, renderings of the Chevy Traverse 2021, and renderings of the Chevy Equinox 2021, this next-generation GMC Terrain 2025 is built to rival the Ford Bronco Sports in the rugged compact crossover segment.

As such, the first thing to note about this rendering of the GMC Terrain 2025 is the overall length and wheelbase, with the next-generation concept shortening dimensions across both metrics for increased off-road prowess.

While a significant departure compared to past GMC Terrain models, the shorter length will help to underscore the model’s off-road credentials and set it up to rival the popular Ford Bronco Sport.

Higher suspension tuning and further stance would round out the GMC Terrain 2025’s rugged resume, while all-terrain tires would make sense for the options list.

All-wheel drive, locking differentials, underbody skid plates, and tow hooks should also be on the specification sheet, either as standard or as an optional add-on.

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2024 GMC Terrain Redesign

The renderings of the GMC Terrain 2025 also offer a revised styling with signature slim top lighting and horizontal lighting elements placed on either side of the grille.

The black lower cladding helps ward off the wrong parts of the terrain, while the two-tone paint treatment is complemented by an extended C-pillar line that wraps around and covers the roof.

The box-shaped fenders accommodate the higher ride height, while at the rear, we see thin horizontal taillights.

While this GMC Terrain Redesign concept will result in the solid 2025 GMC Terrain, it could also grade as GMC Granite, placed under Terrain as a new B-segment crossover. It should be noted, however, that GMC Granite has become a life-and-death affair for General Motors.

2024 GMC Denali – GMC

GMC Terrains For Sale

However Terrain 2024, for now, cannot be confirmed, the next generation GMC Terrain 2025 is expected to debut in the calendar year 2023 or GMC Terrain 2024.

Prices we can estimate will start at around $30,000 equipped with comfort and safety features that come standard on the base model and with the ultimate all-terrain focused AT4 starting at around $34,000, the Denali model rings in at about $37,000.

Preceding Part

For those shopping for something that looks a little different from the average compact crossover, the looks of the GMC Terrain truck might prove appealing. But upon closer inspection, neither the features nor the price pushes it to the top of its class.

All models are powered by a warm turbocharged four-cylinder engine and, unlike the Yukon SUV brand, the Terrain’s off-road capabilities are quite limited even with its optional all-wheel-drive system.

Buyers can enjoy the chrome-plated Denali models that set the Terrain apart from competitors like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, or Volkswagen Tiguan, but the top-spec model comes with an almost luxurious price tag.

Like its platform counterpart, the cheaper Chevrolet Equinox, the Terrain received a styling refresh for the following year that included a revised grille and front bumper, new LED headlights and taillights, and new 18- and 19-inch wheel designs, updated seats, and Apple CarPlay. Wireless is expected to have significant changes in 2024.

And Android Auto functionality. The sturdier-looking AT4 model joins the lineup while the base SL trim slips off. Also discontinued was the previously optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, leaving the factory 1.5-liter turbo as the only engine option.

HIGHEST
Spacious interior, good fuel economy figures, solid appearance.
LOWEST
Plastic cabin parts, annoying toggle switch, decent acceleration performance.
VERDICT
Despite having a distinctive look, Terrain ultimately falls short when compared to the segment leader.

Read next: 2024 GMC Terrain: The New GMC Terrain 5-Passenger Compact SUV Review

2024 GMC Terrain Refresh

The GMC Terrain is slated to receive a refresh for the next model year.

However, due to complications caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, the update was pushed back to the 2022 model year and we continue to expect significant changes for the next year on the 2024 model.

We expect the 2024 GMC Terrain to receive a mid-cycle upgrade (MCE), otherwise known as an update or refresh for the upcoming model year representing the fifth model year of the second-generation Terrain.

The new GMC Terrain 2024 is expected to update the Terrain compact crossover with a new look and several new features available.
Off-road-oriented AT4 level trim joins the lineup.

The only engine option is the turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four, as the previously optional 2.0-liter inline-four turbo was missing.

The New GMC Terrain 2024 gets a new look, new features, and a new, rugged-looking trim level called the AT4.

Specifically, however, the option of a more powerful upgrade engine will not be offered after it disappears for the 2021 model year.

The 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four with 170 horsepower remains the only engine option, with the previous 2.0-liter turbo four last offered in 2020 not coming back with this refresh.

All-Terrain models of the New GMC Terrain look a little different, with reshaped headlights and taillights and a different front fascia. The wheel design is also new, and there are four new color options.

The off-road-focused AT4 designation seen in other GMC models joins the Terrain lineup for the first time; it’s an appearance package with front skid plates and Goodyear Sport Terrain tires.

GMC also says the interior has different upholstery and trim pieces, and Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities are now standard. There’s a new head-up look which is optional on certain trim levels and standard on the Denali top-dog.

2024 GMC Terrain Model Line

Removal of the base SL trim level (TXL26 SL FWD), making the SLE a new entry-level Terrain model
Added new AT4 (TXC26 AT4 AWD 4SC) model
Denali models will have late availability for the 2022 model year

2024 GMC Terrain Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The spacious and accommodating interior is let down by the subpar build quality and the hefty mix of materials.

Meanwhile, Terrain’s ergonomically challenged pushbutton shifter sprinkles salt in the compact crossover’s interior cuts.

It consists of several switches that look like power window controls, are located low on the center console, and are less intuitive to use.

While it’s something we think owners will get used to over time, we found the small buttons hard to find at a glance, especially when fumbling backward making it difficult to make quick three-point turns or operate the transmission’s manual mode.

The New GMC Terrain is the perfect partner for carrying large loads of any size. Standard 60/40 folding rear seats credit, as well as available flat-folding front seats.

Terrain The cargo area offers a class-competitive space.

In our carry-on test, the Terrain accommodated 24 boxes with the rear seats folded; those looking for absolute maximum cargo space will be better served—albeit just a little bit—by the CR-V.

2024 GMC Terrain Infotainment and Connectivity

Easy to operate and quick to respond to commands, the Terrain infotainment system benefits from clear graphics, logical menus, and the latest in-car connectivity features.

Apple CarPlay wireless, Android Auto, and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot are all standard.

An in-dash navigation system is standard on the top Denali and is available on other models.

The head-up display is available standard on the Denali and optional on the SLT and AT4 but unlike other GM vehicles that project this feature onto the windshield, the Terrain uses a pop-up panel at the top of the dashboard.

2024 GMC Terrain Exterior

Minor revisions to interior styling and materials, including new interior trims
Added new Head-Up Display (HUD), available for SLT and AT4. models
Brandy removal with Jet Black interior color combination
The driver’s seatback map pocket is no longer standard on the SLE model and remains standard on the SLT and AT4. models
Single-zone manual air conditioner removal
Added single-zone automatic air conditioning, which is standard on the SLE
Added urethane steering wheel, which is standard on SLE. models
Added Wireless Apple CarPlay/Wireless Android Auto, which is standard on all models
Removal of 8-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment System with Navigation
SiriusXM Radio Removal Removal

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2024 GMC Terrain Exterior with New Frontend Style

Elimination of high-intensity discharge headlights with C .-shaped lighting
Added the signature LED Daytime Running Light, which is standard for all equipment groups
Three-bar grid removal (LPO level item)
New back style
Removal of Black back number plate app (LPO level item)
Removal of front and rear black fascia inserts (LPO level item)

Removal of four exterior colors:

Metallic Emerald Blue
Metallic Gray Graphite
Metallic Steel Satin
Red Quartz Tintcoat

Addition of three exterior colors:

Metallic Desert Sand
Exclusive to AT4. model
Marine Metal
Metallic Red Chili
Elimination of adjustable heated outer mirror, manual-folding, LED turn signal indicator and auto-dimming
Chrome mirror cap removal
LED fog light kit removal (LPO level item)
Black painted mirror cap removal (LPO level item)
Removal of 18-inch x 7-inch machined aluminum alloy wheels with gray painted accents (RPO code: RV6)
18-inch x 7-inch silver (RSX) aluminum alloy wheels are no longer available on the SLE model and are now standard on the SLT model
P225/60R18 all-season Blackwall tires (RUB) are no longer available on SLE models
Added 17-inch Gloss Black (PJE) aluminum alloy wheels with 17-inch all-season (QEN) tires, exclusive to the AT4 model

GMC Terrain 2024 Engine

Added engine auto start-stop switch

GMC Terrain 2024 Package

Elevation Edition Removal
Removal of Dark Accent Pack (LPO level item), which is exclusive to SLT models
Added Driver Technology Package
Front Park Assist is now included and only available with the Technology Package (BGP) on SLT and AT4

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GMC Terrain 2024 Body Style

The 2022 GMC Terrain continues to be offered as a compact five-door crossover utility vehicle (CUV).

2024 GMC Terrain Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The New Terrain engine comes standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a nine-speed automatic and front or all-wheel drive.

We haven’t tested it yet, but we put the engine through our test regimen mounted on its mechanical twin, the Chevrolet Equinox; it took 8.9 seconds to reach 60 mph.

The New GMC Terrain 2024 provides its passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

While the cushioned suspension is a boon on long road trips, the comfort-oriented setup drains the compact crossover from driver engagement once the asphalt becomes twisty.

Similarly, the direct but sweet steering, which provides easy turn-ins at low speeds, proves to be as uninformative as the mob bosses in the police interrogation room.

2024 GMC Terrain Real-World Fuel Economy and MPG

The EPA section estimates the front-wheel-drive 2022 Terrain will deliver up to 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway; going with all-wheel drive lowers the highway estimate to 28 mpg.

We haven’t put the Terrain through our real-world highway fuel-economy test yet, but we’ll update this story when we do. For more information on Terrain fuel economy, visit the EPA website.

2024 GMC Terrain Price

GMC Terrain Refreshed to add the Off-Road Model slightly increased the price on the $36,195 stylish AT4 and new features were on board, but the option of a more powerful 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine didn’t return to the lineup.

Pricing for the New GMC Terrain 2024 is expected to start at $30,095 for the front-wheel-drive SLE and range up to $38,795 for the front-wheel-drive Denali.

All-wheel drive is a $1700 option on most trim levels but comes standard on the AT4.