Are you looking for a vehicle that looks tough and rides like a dream? Need an SUV that can handle a large number of suitcases while still providing its driver and passengers with modern conveniences, occupying you for hours whilst stuck in traffic, helping you navigate through new areas, and allowing everyone to have their preferred entertainment? The 2023 GMC Terrain is a bold compact SUV with plenty of space for your friends, family, and luggage, and it has the power to get you all where you need to go without a hitch.
GMC’s long-standing reputation as the provider of upscale and premium vehicles is still going strong, thanks to the company’s innovation with new and luxury features, which means the Terrain is no different; although it may appear tough and rugged, you won’t have a rough experience in one. GMC Terrain sales are through the roof, so if you’re lucky enough to find one at your local dealership, you may want to grab it quick before someone else takes it home.
Performance
Each of the four Terrain trim levels comes standard with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder DOHC engine, with direct injection and variable valve timing, providing the driver with 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. What this means is that not only are you using less gas, but you’re also limiting gas emissions and improving performance. The direct injection method of providing a vehicle with fuel is quite common in newer vehicles, as it does so with cooler air and gas, and that lack of heat is also helpful for improving both efficiency and performance. When all is said and done, the 1.5L four-cylinder is, according to GMC, able to net 24 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway—commendable numbers, especially for a compact crossover.
The 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. Unsure if you want all-wheel or front-wheel? Typically, if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, or has trails you want to explore, then the all-wheel drive option is better; but if you’re looking for a daily commuter for city living, then you might want to consider the front-wheel drive option, especially as it is typically cheaper to purchase and maintain.
Safety Features
GMC has standard safety features that come with every trim level, as well as additional safety features you may want to include in your purchase. Standard safety features include three years of the OnStar and Connected Services plan, which includes the Onstar Security Plan and Connected Vehicle Plan. The Security Plan adds the Onstar Guardian app, stolen vehicle assistance, roadside assistance, automatic crash response, and emergency services. The Connected Services Plan adds a Wi-Fi hotspot with data, a remote access plan, and the ability to connect with in-vehicle apps like navigation and popular entertainment options. When you’re stuck on the side of the road, or you’ve been hit, it’s a relief to know that help is already on the way and that your vehicle can help responders locate you.
Other standard features among the four trim levels include automatic emergency braking, a dual-note horn, hill descent control, IntelliBeam, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, StabiliTrak, Teen Driver mode, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Most notable are the Teen Driver mode, IntelliBeam, and StabiliTrak. IntelliBeam can turn your automatic headlights on and off depending on your location and the number of fellow drivers on the road; StabilitTak acts as a helper during such experiences as driving over slick pavement, while also adjusting power and brakes so that you stay on the road.
Cargo Space
In spite of its diminutive size as a compact crossover SUV, the 2023 GMC Terrain can hold a lot. It’s almost like it’s bigger on the inside. Some reviewers say it can hold up to 24 suitcases after folding the backseat; and, if you decide you need that room for passengers, it can still hold plenty of bags, boxes, duffels, etcetera, to ensure you have everything you need for your trip, whether it be a family holiday celebration, a much-needed vacation, or a quick road trip with some friends. If you’re packing up to move cross-country or even to take a ferry, boat, or plane to another country, you can opt for the co-pilot seat that folds down flat, thereby affording you additional space for another two or three pieces of luggage. Now you have room for that box of memorabilia you didn’t want to trash.
If you’re inclined toward towing, the Terrain also has your back—for up to 3,500 lbs. You’ll want to check which engine setup is built for the highest towing capacity, but even at 1,500 lbs (the standard towing capacity) you can tote some dirt bikes, a recreational vehicle, or a camper along with you and the family for a weekend away enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
Packages & Editions
Along with all the standard equipment and features, the GMC Terrain has a long list of available editions and packages to make your GMC Terrain unique and specific to you. Are you more interested in aesthetics? You can look into the Black Diamond Edition, which comes with a power sunroof and 19-inch wheels, painted the same Ebony Twilight Metallic as your ride. You can also look at the Elevation Edition, which covers mirror caps, side roof rails, the front grille, and other exterior pieces of the vehicle in black and also comes with 19-inch wheels.
More interested in features and luxury amenities? You should check out the Driver Convenience Package that adds roof-mounted luggage rack side rails, an eight-way power seat with lumbar control, heated seats for both the driver and front passenger, and a remote start, all to alleviate the pressure of driving, allowing for a more fun, comfortable experience. You can also take a look at the Comfort Package—which adds ventilation to the driver and front passenger seats, as well as heat to the rear outboard seats—or the Memory Package, which allows two drivers to set up their seat and mirror preferences, and—with a touch of a button—can change from one to the other; a helpful bonus for those who share a car with a roommate, spouse, or teen.
Plenty of Benefits Without the Drawbacks
The 2023 GMC Terrain is equipped to handle all your daily driving and weekend event chauffeuring without working up a sweat. You can take the kids to the county fair, visit friends the next city over, or drive cross-country to introduce your family to famous historical sites. Whichever Terrain catches your eye, you’re guaranteed a comfortable ride, safety features that can prevent accidents, third-party assistance in case of travel mishaps, and plenty of Wi-Fi for watching videos, listening to podcasts and music, or playing games.
With four trim levels to choose from, a multitude of additional packages and editions, and plenty of standard features providing comfort, safety, and excellent performance, the 2023 GMC Terrain is a ready and willing partner in all your family’s activities. If you haven’t yet been able to see one up close, it’s worth a visit to either a dealership or a friend that owns one. You’ll be amazed at all that the GMC Terrain has to offer.
