#10 of 13 in Compact SUV Sales | Next
Starting Price: $24,995 | Build
Above Average: Spacious second row, comfortable ride, quiet, attractive interior
Below Average: Top-of-the-line is pricier than most, materials quality needs improvement
Consensus: Still good-looking, but the Terrain is overdue for a major overhaul
Upmarket, but not upcountry.
GMC is General Motors’ venerable outlet for all things truck, and it had a big hit with the introduction of its compact crossover SUV, the GMC Terrain. Although its truck-like styling dynamic isn’t for everyone, neither will the Terrain be confused with the more ubiquitous entries from Honda, Toyota or Subaru. And despite its truckish appearance, with its base four-cylinder engine it rivals Honda’s CR-V in economy, while an available V6 will rival many Audis in acceleration. After last year’s styling update, the only change for 2017 is the addition of the Nightfall appearance edition.
Driving It
"If a comfortable cabin and quiet ride are high priorities, few compact crossover SUVs compare to the 2017 GMC Terrain. A combination of laminated glass, triple-layer door seals and GMC’s active noise-cancellation technology conspire to put the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 to shame." Read our 2017 GMC Terrain full review.
GMC Terrain Shoppers Also Look At
Terrain Denali
When it comes to GMC’s trucks and SUVs, the most upscale model you can get carries the Denali badge. The Terrain Denali comes with uplevel features like chrome accents, special Denali wheels and a dual exhaust. On the inside, there’s soft-touch Jet Black leather with contrast stitching, wood accents and an 8-way power seat for the driver. Engine options are the same as with the regular Terrain, but the Denali’s suspension uses different shocks for a smoother ride.
Consumer Reviews
Terrain owner and KBB.com visitor new carzforme has this to say about GMC’s small SUV: "Overall I like the car. It has been very reliable. The only major downfall it has is it is gutless when you push on the gas pedal." See more GMC Terrain consumer reviews.
Build and Price
The Terrain can be purchased in SL, SLE and SLT guise, while the Terrain Denali essentially constitutes its own sub-brand and price point. The cost of entry for the base Terrain — just under $25,000 — is surprisingly modest for what is almost a near-luxury purchase experience. Head up to Denali and the trailhead begins at $35K and can quickly ascend to over $42K. Build and price your own 2017 GMC Terrain to unlock this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own and more.
2018 GMC Terrain
Expected to arrive at dealerships this summer, the all-new 2018 GMC Terrain introduces a new design direction for GMC. Riding on a stronger, lighter platform, the upcoming Terrain will offer three efficient engines and an upscale interior with more premium features and amenities.
Others to Consider
With a price range that spans from $25,000 to more than $40,000, the 2017 GMC Terrain competes to varying degrees in both the small SUV and midsize SUV segments. Check out our Compact SUV Buyer’s Guide and Midsize SUV Buyer’s Guide to become an instant expert on both groups.
Photo Gallery: GMC Terrain Inside and Out
