Are Gmc Terrain Good Cars For Your Drives? Exclusive Review

The GMC Terrain is a standout in compact SUVs. Learning are gmc terrain good cars? It balances style, comfort, and function well.
It keeps up with competitors like the Chevrolet Equinox thanks to updates over the years. The Terrain is known for its top-notch safety features.
These include advanced help for drivers to make driving safer. It also has modern systems for staying connected and entertained.
Plus, it’s spacious and comfy inside, making long journeys pleasant for everyone. The GMC Terrain blends flexibility with performance, marking it as a top pick for a compact SUV.
Its design and features aim to please a variety of drivers. This makes the Terrain a smart choice for your next car.
Engine Performance of The GMC Terrain
The 2024 GMC Terrain comes with impressive engine specs, great for everyday use. At its heart is a strong 1.5L turbocharged engine. This enhances how it drives overall.
Turbocharged 1.5L Four-Cylinder Engine
This engine delivers 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. It enables quick acceleration and smooth handling.
The 1.5L turbo engine also balances power with fuel efficiency well. This is a big step up from previous models, providing more horsepower but still keeping the drive quality for all sorts of trips.
Transmission Overview: 9-Speed Automatic
The GMC Terrain’s engine works with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This pairing boosts acceleration and makes driving feel better.
You’ll notice smooth shifting at any speed. This transmission aids the engine’s fuel efficiency, leading to better gas mileage and smoother performance as you go.
Are GMC Terrain Good Cars?
The GMC Terrain gets high marks for performance, reliability, comfort, and safety. It’s well-made, showing that a lot of thought went into its design.
This makes the GMC Terrain a reliable choice. The Terrain is great for daily use and weekend trips.
It performs well in the city and off-road. Its roomy inside and top safety scores make it a top pick among compact SUVs.
When looking at SUVs, think about how the Terrain’s features fit what you need.
GMC Terrain Reliability Insights
The GMC Terrain is known for its strong reliability scores. Here, we’ll dive into what makes this vehicle reliable.
We’ll cover ratings from J.D. Power and discuss its lifespan and maintenance needs.
Reliability Ratings From J.D. Power
The GMC Terrain scored between 83% and 88% in J.D. Power’s reliability ratings over five years.
These high scores show GMC’s commitment to making quality vehicles. It makes the SUV a top pick for those who want a dependable car.
Lifespan and Maintenance Considerations
The GMC Terrain is built to last, thanks to its solid engineering. Keeping up with regular maintenance is key to its reliability.
Following the service schedule recommended by the manufacturer helps your Terrain run better and longer.
Getting oil changes, checking brakes, and maintaining fluids ensure your car works well. These steps also keep you safe and worry-free while driving.
GMC Terrain Features and Specifications
The GMC Terrain is built to give you top comfort and the latest in technology. It has a beautiful and useful interior.
You’ll find high-quality materials and cutting-edge tech inside. These features make driving a joy.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Enter the GMC Terrain and feel the cozy, modern vibe. It comes with optional leather seats and heaters to boost your comfort.
It’s roomy, offering plenty of leg space and storage for all your journeys. The easy-to-use infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This means you’re always just a click away from your friends and tunes.

Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is key in the GMC Terrain, which boasts cutting-edge safety tech. It has adaptive cruise control, lane departure alerts, and auto emergency braking.
These features help it earn top safety scores. On busy roads or long trips, you drive worry-free.
GMC Terrain Performance in Various Conditions
The GMC Terrain shines under different driving conditions. Its strong design and optional all-wheel drive (AWD) make it agile.
It handles well, whether on busy city roads or rough off-road paths. In the city, the Terrain moves smoothly, perfect for urban life.
Its smaller size makes parking easy and it’s quick in tight spots. On highways, it’s stable and secure, giving drivers a sense of confidence at high speeds.
Off-road, the Terrain stands its ground. Its AWD system works flawlessly, keeping the car steady on slippery or rough grounds.
This ensures the Terrain is safe and dependable, no matter the weather.
GMC Terrain Fuel Efficiency
The GMC Terrain is a great pick for anyone who values fuel economy in a compact SUV. It offers top-notch fuel efficiency.
This means you can save on fuel costs but still enjoy great performance and comfort.
Fuel Economy Ratings
This compact SUV has excellent economy ratings. It uses 9.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on the highway.
These numbers show how the GMC Terrain is ideal for daily drives while being easy on your wallet. It’s perfect for city trips and long highway drives.
FWD vs. AWD Fuel Efficiency
Choosing between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) affects fuel efficiency. FWD models are more fuel-efficient, which is great for saving on fuel.
On the other hand, AWD models offer better traction but use slightly more fuel.

Common Issues with The GMC Terrain
The GMC Terrain is known for being dependable. But, some common issues have come up among its owners.
A major problem is with the electronic stability control, especially in the older models. This can lead to unpredictable handling during certain driving situations.
Owners are advised to keep an eye on their system. In the 2017 model, some problems with the airbags have been reported.
There have been a few cases of the airbag system not working right. Even though these are not very common, they remind us to stay up-to-date with GMC Terrain’s potential issues.
To help you out, here’s a list of problems that have been reported:
Issue Category | Specific Issue | Model Years Affected |
---|---|---|
Electronic Stability Control | Unpredictable handling | Older models |
Airbags | Deployment system malfunction | 2017 models |
Comparisons with Competing Models
The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox often get compared because they are built on the same platform and share many features.
However, they have subtle differences that show off each vehicle’s strengths. For those who value a touch of luxury, the Terrain offers a more luxurious interior and better safety features.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevrolet Equinox
When looking at these two compact SUVs, keep in mind:
Feature | GMC Terrain | Chevrolet Equinox |
---|---|---|
Interior Quality | Upscale materials with a sleek design | Functional yet less luxurious interior |
Safety Features | More advanced safety tech available | Standard safety features are solid |
Technology Integration | Infotainment system with a focus on user experience | Good tech but fewer upscale options |
Price Range | Generally higher due to premium features | More budget-friendly options available |
In the face-off between GMC Terrain vs Chevrolet Equinox, things like interior quality, safety, and tech play a big role.
Your choice will depend on what’s more important to you: luxury or value. Think about these factors to see which SUV fits your needs best.

Trim Levels and Pricing For The GMC Terrain
The 2024 GMC Terrain has different trims to fit everyone’s taste. You can pick a model that matches your budget and what features you want.
Knowing about the trims and prices helps you choose wisely.
Overview of Available Trims
The GMC Terrain is available in four trims: SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Each one has standard features and options to add more comfort, style, and usefulness.
Here’s a quick look at what you get with each trim:
- SLE: Base model offering essential features and advanced safety options.
- SLT: Adds more luxury with upgraded materials and additional tech features.
- AT4: Off-road oriented trim with enhanced durability and rugged styling.
- Denali: Top-tier trim featuring premium materials and advanced technology.
MSRP Breakdown
Let’s talk about the cost. Below is the MSRP for each trim of the GMC Terrain:
Trim Level | MSRP |
---|---|
SLE | $29,900 |
SLT | $33,000 |
AT4 | $34,700 |
Denali | $38,000 |
Each GMC Terrain trim has unique features for different needs and budgets. This info helps in picking the right model for you.
Warranty and Maintenance of The GMC Terrain
The 2024 GMC Terrain comes with a solid three-year or 58,000 km warranty. It covers many parts of the car, giving you confidence as a car owner.
The powertrain warranty lasts for five years or 100,000 km. It includes the engine and transmission.
It’s important to take good care of your GMC Terrain to keep the warranty valid. Sticking to a regular maintenance plan helps your car stay in great shape.
This plan includes several key activities:
- Tire rotations every 6,000 to 8,000 miles
- Oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
- Brake inspections at each service interval
- Fluid level checks every few months
By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your GMC Terrain running well. Doing so also makes sure your warranty covers your car when needed.
Taking early action with your car’s maintenance can prevent expensive fixes later on.

Consumer Reviews and Owner Experiences
GMC Terrain consumer reviews often show high praise for the SUV. Owners love its great fuel efficiency, a big win for a compact SUV.
They also enjoy long rides thanks to its roomy inside and comfy seats. Some owners report small issues, especially in older Terrains.
These include electrical problems and the need for software updates. Yet, most people are very happy with how the Terrain drives and its tech.
Owners say the GMC Terrain handles well, feeling nimble and quick. Its good looks and family-friendly design also get thumbs up.
Many reviews say it’s reliable and makes them feel safe while driving.
Conclusion
The GMC Terrain is a top choice in the compact SUV market. We looked at its engine, reliability, and safety. These make the Terrain a trusted vehicle.
If you need a car good in all driving conditions, think about the Terrain. Is the GMC Terrain a good car? Absolutely.
It has a nice interior, runs well, and saves on gas. It’s great for any driver. No matter what you want in a car—tech, comfort, or safety—the Terrain has it all.
In the end, the Terrain stands out among compact SUVs. If you’re shopping for a new SUV, don’t forget the GMC Terrain. It might just be the right choice for you.
FAQs
Q: Are GMC Terrain good cars?
A: Yes, the GMC Terrain is reliable, comfortable, and full of advanced features. It’s a top choice in the compact SUV market.
Q: What is the engine performance of the GMC Terrain?
A: The 2024 GMC Terrain has a turbo 1.5L engine. It gives 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. This mix means it’s both strong and efficient.
Q: What are the reliability ratings for the GMC Terrain?
A: J.D. Power gives the Terrain high marks for reliability. Over the last five years, it’s scored between 83% and 88%. This shows it’s a dependable car.
Q: What safety ratings does the GMC Terrain have?
A: The GMC Terrain has great safety features and ratings. This makes it a good option for families.
Q: What fuel efficiency can I expect from the GMC Terrain?
A: The GMC Terrain uses 9.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on highways. It’s a smart pick for saving on fuel costs.
Q: What are common issues reported with the GMC Terrain?
A: Mostly, the Terrain is reliable. But, some older models had issues with stability control and airbags. These problems were not common, though.
Q: How does the GMC Terrain compare to the Chevrolet Equinox?
A: The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox are similar. But, the Terrain is seen as more luxurious. It has a nicer interior and more safety tech.