GMC Terrain — Motor Trend Full Test

Overall Rating: 3.8/5 | Editors' Choice: No | Best For: Versatile Family Use | Starting Price: $28,400

Overview — What This Car Represents

The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that aims to combine rugged charm with everyday practicality. Positioned in a fiercely competitive market segment, it seeks to attract buyers looking for a blend of style, efficiency, and versatility. Its design language leans towards the robust and distinctive, catering to those who want their vehicle to have a commanding presence. Our initial impressions from the test car reveal a competent all-rounder, though it faces stiff competition from the likes of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Terrain aims to solve the problem of needing a family-friendly vehicle that doesn't compromise on aesthetics or features.

Our Testing Protocol — Methodology

We utilize a rigorous and uniform testing protocol to ensure all our vehicle assessments are both consistent and reliable. Our Motor Trend 0-60 mph testing is conducted using a fully instrumented drag strip to ensure precision, while our handling course tests the vehicle's dynamics through a series of slalom and skidpad exercises. Fuel economy is evaluated via an EPA combined-equivalent protocol in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, we conduct long-term ownership assessments over a 12-month period to gauge reliability and maintenance aspects.

Acceleration & Braking — The Numbers

The GMC Terrain recorded a 0-60 mph time of 8.9 seconds in our Motor Trend tests, slightly lagging behind class leaders. Its quarter-mile performance was clocked at 16.7 seconds. Braking from 60-0 mph required 131 feet, which is competent for its class. These figures suggest the Terrain provides adequate performance for daily driving but doesn't particularly stand out for those seeking a more spirited drive.

Handling — What the Test Course Reveals

On our handling course, the Terrain achieved a skidpad lateral acceleration score of 0.81 g, showcasing decent grip for a compact SUV. Its slalom speed was measured at 62.5 mph, which is respectable but not class-leading. The steering is responsive enough for city and highway driving, though it lacks the precision of sportier rivals. The suspension is tuned for comfort, smoothing out road imperfections well but introducing noticeable body roll in tighter corners. Compared to competitors like the Mazda CX-5, the Terrain is more about comfort than sharp handling.

Fuel Economy — Real-World Testing

The Terrain's EPA combined rating is 26 mpg, but during our Motor Trend real-world testing, we observed an average of 24 mpg. On the highway, it achieved a commendable 30 mpg, while city driving saw it drop to around 22 mpg. The Eco-driving mode, if equipped, marginally improved efficiency but didn't make a significant difference. With its 15.6-gallon fuel tank, the Terrain offers a practical range for long-distance travel, although frequent city commuters might find themselves refueling more often. Annually, expect a fuel cost of approximately $1,500, depending on driving habits.

Interior, Comfort & Practicality

The GMC Terrain offers a spacious interior with a passenger volume of 103 cubic feet, comfortably accommodating five adults. Its cargo capacity stands at 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet when folded, making it versatile for family outings or road trips. Seat comfort is satisfactory for both short and long trips, with ample support. Interior materials are a step above the base competition, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring an intuitive interface with both physical controls and touchscreen options, ensuring ease of use for all drivers.

Technology & Features

The Terrain comes equipped with a range of standard and optional tech features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system proved reliable throughout our testing, offering seamless smartphone integration. Over-the-air updates help keep the system current without requiring dealer visits. The backup camera provides a clear view, aiding parking maneuvers, while available autonomous features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist enhance safety. However, the effectiveness of these systems can vary depending on driving conditions.

Safety — Ratings & Real-World Protection

The GMC Terrain has earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, while the IIHS awarded it high marks in crashworthiness, though it missed out on the Top Safety Pick designation due to headlights performance. Standard active safety features include automatic emergency braking and forward collision alert. During our collision mitigation testing, these features performed adequately. The lane keeping assist system works well on highways, though it can struggle with poorly marked roads. Overall, the Terrain offers competitive occupant protection in its segment.

Value Proposition — Is It Worth the Money?

Starting at $28,400, the GMC Terrain is priced competitively within its segment, especially considering its array of features. Financing options and manufacturer incentives make it an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers. Leasing may be advantageous given the Terrain's moderate depreciation rate. Compared to segment pricing, the Terrain offers good value, particularly in its mid-range trim which balances features and cost effectively. Long-term cost projections are reasonable, though the higher trims approach pricing that brings luxury models like the Audi Q3 into play.

Reliability & Long-Term Ownership — What to Expect

In our Motor Trend long-term test, the GMC Terrain demonstrated reliable performance over 12 months. Warranty coverage includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Common owner issues reported include occasional infotainment glitches and transmission hesitancy, though these are not widespread. Based on GMC's brand track record, reliability predictions are solid, with maintenance costs estimated at around $500 per year over three years of ownership, assuming regular servicing.

Which Car Should You Choose?

1. → GMC Terrain
2. Best for: Families seeking a blend of comfort and practicality in a stylish package.
3. Why it wins: Offers a spacious interior, user-friendly tech, and robust safety features.
4. → Honda CR-V
5. Best for: Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and interior space.
6. Why it excels: Superior fuel economy, excellent cargo space, and a well-rounded package.
7. → Mazda CX-5
8. Best for: Enthusiasts looking for a sportier drive.
9. Why it's worth it: Offers engaging driving dynamics, premium interior quality, and stylish design.

The Drive — Real-World Character

Driving the GMC Terrain reveals a vehicle that balances comfort with adequate performance. Steering feel is light and generally precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban settings. The suspension is tuned to favor comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces, albeit with some body roll during aggressive cornering. Road and wind noise are well-contained at highway speeds, contributing to a serene cabin environment. The throttle response is smooth, though not particularly quick, while the transmission shifts seamlessly, enhancing the overall sense of refinement despite lacking the sporty edge of some rivals.

Motor Trend Scoring

1. Performance: 3/5
2. Handling: 3/5
3. Comfort & Convenience: 4/5
4. Technology: 4/5
5. Safety: 4/5
6. Value: 3/5
7. Design: 4/5
8. Reliability: 4/5
9. Overall Rating: 3.8/5

Recommendation & Verdict

The GMC Terrain is a solid choice for those seeking a well-equipped, comfortable, and safe compact SUV. It's best suited for families who prioritize cabin space and technology in their daily drives. However, if driving dynamics or maximum fuel efficiency are top of your list, you might find better alternatives in the CR-V or CX-5. Overall, the Terrain excels in providing a pleasant driving experience with practical features, making it a recommended buy for those who value comfort and style over outright performance. When negotiating, consider mid-level trims for the best balance of features and price.