The 2018 GMC Terrain is an exciting contender in the mid-size crossover segment. It uses the same platform as the Chevrolet Equinox and shares a general aesthetic with both the Acadia and the latest Chevrolet Malibu, though its unique styling helps to set it apart. The Terrain's rocker panels are integrated into the doors, narrowing the area over which a passenger must step. The body is stiffened with single-piece side stampings plus high-strength steel in critical areas.
The Terrain benefits from three efficient engine choices, each making use of variable valve timing, direct injection and now diesel. A new standard 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 170 horsepower with an impressive 30 mpg on the highway. A more powerful 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder is optional producing 252 horsepower and 262 foot pounds of torque. Finally the new turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine makes less horsepower rated at 137 but makes up for it with 240 foot pounds of torque and up to 39 mpg on the freeway. A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard for all trims except the diesel which is paired with a 6-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrains, but all-wheel drive is available.
Storage areas are everywhere in the cabin, including an oversized glovebox, an expanded center console with pass-through storage underneath large enough for a laptop computer. The rear seats feature MultiFlex, which allows the seats to move back and forth a total of eight inches for the best rear legroom in the segment.
Standard equipment on base SL includes Bluetooth, a rearview camera, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, six air bags, an anti-theft system, an XM Satellite Radio-ready audio system, iPod and MP3 capability and six months of OnStar service. Power windows, door locks, remote keyless entry, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, as well as power mirrors and automatic headlamps round out the generous standards list.
Equipment on the SLE trim includes satellite radio and heated front seats, and upgrades include LED daytime running lights, a leather steering wheel, 8-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control, an 8-speaker audio system and IntelliLink with Bluetooth audio streaming.
The uplevel SLT trim includes luggage rails, a Bose 8-speaker stereo, heated power seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and remote start standard. Options on the SLT include a rear entertainment system, navigation system, a power sunroof and 18- or 19-inch chrome wheels.
The Terrain Denali is immediately recognizable by its unique wheels, chrome grill, satin chrome accents and unique headlight and tail light design. Inside, the Denali comes with black leather seating surfaces with contrasting stitching, a soft touch instrument panel with French stitching, smoked mahogany wood trim, 8-way power adjustable front seats and a sunroof. The Denali also includes a lane departure warning system, a cross traffic detection system and a power liftgate as standard features. Options on the Denali include a rear seat entertainment system and a navigation system.
Powerful Engine Selections
Sharp Styling Inside And Out
Available All-wheel Drive
The GMC Terrain gets quite an exterior facelift for 2018 adding sharper, bolder lines and a cleaner appearance all the while adding a new turbocharged diesel engine and a host of new safety and tech features heading into its second generation of production. Inside the interior is also revitalized utilizing authentic aluminum trim accents and active noise canceling for all models. Adding more cargo capacity was also a priority making a fold flat passenger seat and expanded center console storage.
Starting about $26,400, the 2018 GMC Terrain is one of the most affordable crossover vehicles in its class -- a class that also includes the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The interior features a dual-cockpit design with ice-blue ambient lighting and sophisticated, classy appearance touches that make it look much more expensive than it is.
