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Identifying the First-Gen Ford Mustang2024 GMC Terrain Review
GMC’s smallest SUV has a lot to offer those looking for upscale features. We take a look at powertrain, interior quality, and more in our review.
2024 GMC Terrain – gmc.com | Shop 2024 GMC Terrain on Carsforsale.com
What’s New for the 2024 GMC Terrain?
Part of the 2nd generation that arrived 6 years ago, the 2024 GMC Terrain is getting long in the tooth. Updates over the 2023 Terrain, which is reviewed here, are limited to a pair of new paint colors – Riptide and Downpour Metallic – and the addition of blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard fare on the AT4 model.
The smallest option in GMC’s SUV lineup, the compact Terrain trades on an upscale vibe over its mechanical twin, the Chevy Equinox. The segment it swims in is fiercely competitive, so let’s see if the 2024 Terrain has what it takes to keep up.
Carsforsale.com Score
7.7/10
Powertrain
Score
7/10
Interior
Score
8/10
Technology
Score
8/10
Value
Score
7.75/10
The Breakdown
Flexible cabin layout
Plenty of tech
Tough-looking AT4
Light on power
Expensive Denali
Smallish touchscreens
A middle-of-the-road SUV
2024 Terrain Specs
- 175 horsepower from base engine
- 203 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 4 available trims
- 30 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 63 cu-ft of cargo capacity with seats down
- 5-star overall rating from NHTSA
- Wireless smartphone mirroring
- First maintenance visit is complimentary
2024 GMC Terrain Powertrain 7/10
A single powertrain motivates the 2024 GMC Terrain in the form of a turbocharged 1.5L inline-4 that makes 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. A 9-speed automatic routes power to the front wheels on base models, which can be equipped with AWD for $1,600. Both the AT4 and Denali variants come standard with AWD.
If pulling a trailer is a priority for you, look elsewhere as the 2024 Terrain is only rated for 1,500 pounds. The 2020 model, which we look at here, had an optional 252-horse motor that moved the Terrain around with authority. It also made this older model a contender for our list of best compact SUVs that can tow 3,500 pounds.
That bigger motor is gone, but at least the existing setup is reasonably fuel-efficient. Front-wheel-drive Terrains are rated for 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Opting for the AWD running gear brings those figures down to 23 and 28, respectively.
2024 GMC Terrain Interior 8/10
You’ll find it easy to hold a conversation inside the 2024 Terrain as it comes standard with Active Noise Cancellation and an acoustic laminated windshield. Base models come with premium cloth upholstery, but from the SLT on up, perforated leather is included. For a bit of style, the AT4 trim is stitched with orange and red accents, while the top-dog Denali brings French stitching and the option for beige leather to break up the sea of black.
Cargo space is ample with 30 cubic feet behind the second row and 63 when that seat is folded down. It does fold flat and in a 60/40 configuration on all models. A thoughtful feature is the front passenger seat also being able to fold completely flat. GMC notes this allows for hauling objects up to 8 feet long, which should delight anyone looking to haul two-by-fours or a surfboard.
2024 GMC Terrain Technology Features 8/10
Every 2024 GMC Terrain comes with wirelessly integrated Apple CarPlay and Android, two must-have features that we look at in detail here. Only the SLE trim has a 7-inch touchscreen interface, the rest of the lineup gets an 8-inch variant with a matching-sized gauge cluster screen on the Denali. A Wi-Fi hotspot is standard, but you’ll need a package or a Denali to access the Bose 7-speaker audio system.
GMC Pro Safety, the automaker’s suite of advanced driver aids, is fitted to every Terrain. It includes forward collision mitigation, a lane-keeping system, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control are standard on the AT4 and optional elsewhere in the lineup. Though the IIHS has not yet rated the 2024 model, the NHTSA has and gives it a 5-star overall crash-test score.
2024 GMC Terrain Trims & Pricing
SLE – $30,095
The base 2024 Terrain SLE comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and all-LED exterior lighting. Cabin amenities include black cloth seats, single-zone automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. On the infotainment side, wireless smartphone integration and a Wi-Fi hotspot are managed via a 7-inch touchscreen. Other features include dual USB ports and GMC Connected Services capability.
SLT – $34,095
SLT models add a hands-free liftgate, 18-inch rims, and remote engine start to the mix. Interior upgrades like heat and leather for the steering wheel and front seats, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats, and ambient lighting up the luxury ante. From here on up, an 8-inch infotainment display is included along with a household-style power outlet and the option for a panoramic sunroof.
AT4 – $36,890
A steel front skid plate, gloss black wheels, and an Off-Road drive mode give the AT4 an appearance of rough-and-tumble abilities. But it’s an all hat and no cattle situation that moves further into the hat category with snazzy red and orange cabin accents, and AT4 seatback logos. Looks neat though. These models do add some functionality in the form of rear parking sensors and the Safety Alert Seat that shakes and shimmies in the name of safety.
Denali – $39,995
A monochromatic exterior, 19-inch wheels, and an extra-bright front end distinguish the Denali from lesser Terrains. As does French stitching on the seats and embroidered Denali logos. These top-spec models also come with connected navigation, a head-up display, a 7-speaker Bose stereo, and a wireless charging pad. Options include an automatic parking system, a surround-view monitor, ventilated front seats, and heated rears.
2024 GMC Terrain Overall Value 7.75/10
In SLT trim, the 2024 Terrain offers the most value thanks to the larger infotainment screen and longer list of creature comforts. That being said, a Hyundai Tucson undercuts the Terrain on price across the board while offering a more robust level of features and a far better warranty.
GMC’s warranty includes one complimentary service, a 3-year/36,000-mile basic term, and 5 years or 60,000 miles on the powertrain. Before you hit the dealership, check out the latest new car incentives for opportunities to save a couple bucks.
CarsForSale.com Overall Score 7.7/10
2024 GMC Terrain – gmc.com | Shop 2024 GMC Terrain on Carsforsale.com
On the whole, the 2024 GMC Terrain ambles down the middle of the road, not too exciting, not too dull, but not really just right either. It’s more expensive than competitors like Hyundai’s Tucson, which are serious displays of value, and the single powertrain is uninspired.
There is a nice level of standard driver aids and infotainment systems, but the really good stuff requires an expensive package. Given it’s been in production for 6 years and the limited level of model year updates, this latest Terrain feels like a vehicle being idled in anticipation of a new generation. Our advice would be to sit tight and wait for it.
2024 GMC Terrain FAQ
Does the GMC Terrain have a third row?
No, the GMC Terrain only comes with two rows of seating.
How long is a GMC Terrain?
The 2024 Terrain measures 182 inches long or just over 15 feet.
Are GMC Terrains Reliable?
Though the 2024 model has not yet been tested, according to J.D. Power, the 2023 Terrain scores an 85/100 for reliability, which is relatively high.
