If you’re not keeping an eye on the 2019 GMC Terrain SLE/SLT and Terrain Denali, then it’s time to take a look and see what’s in store. These are the small SUVs that you’re going to notice all over the place really soon, that’s all we’re saying. GMC has loaded these two with features from one end to the other, from the bold headlamps and accent lighting on the front of both of them to the programmable liftgate at the rear of the Denali. There’s great power and performance with both of these models, and the difference really comes down to the features you’re looking for and the options you need.
Both of the 2019 GMC Terrains are excellent choices for small SUVs, and the distinction really comes down to the standard and available features. The SLE/SLT is meant as the introductory Terrain model, with great available and optional choices but somewhat more paired down standard features. Meanwhile, the Denali is the luxury model that has everything you want and need, with a few extras available just in case. So let’s take a closer look and see what GMC has up its sleeve for the 2019 model year.
2019 GMC Terrain SLE/SLT
While there are some differences between the SLE and SLT, for the most part they have many of the same features and available upgrades. For example, they are both front-wheel drive SUVs but are available as all-wheel drive models if desired. In general, however, it is easiest to look at both vehicles together when considering what they can do and what’s inside.
Power and Performance
The SLE comes with a 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine that offers 170-HP and 203 lb.-ft. of torque standard, with a 2.0L Turbo available. It includes automatic stop/start, hill descent control, and StabiliTrak functionality with a 4-link rear suspension. StabiliTrak is a traction control system that helps when the vehicle detects that the direction the vehicle is traveling is different from that intended by the driver. It has a 9-speed automatic transmission with an electronic precision shift for additional interior space.
Design
The look of the 2019 GMC Terrain SLE/SLT is definitely one of the first things you’ll notice about this ride. Its overall shape and curves are sleek, particularly for an SUV, with a bold front grille. One of its most striking features is the front High-Intensity Discharge headlamps that turn on and off automatically and are surrounded by C-shaped LED lighting. This keeps the road clearly visible at night and makes the GMC Terrain unmistakable when someone else sees it coming.
Interior
The interior is designed to be comfortable and functional, with numerous features that help with safety and usability. This starts with front-to-back flattening seats that provide up to 8-feet of storage space for long objects. There is seating for five passengers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and steering-wheel-mounted controls for easy adjustments without the driver taking his or her hands off the wheel. A passenger-sensing system detects when another person is in the 2019 GMC Terrain and there are multiple airbags for driver and passenger safety.
Technology
GMC hasn’t held back with tech features in the 2019 GMC Terrain SLE/SLT, and even more features are available if desired. There are multiple 12-volt power outlets for charging devices, a rear-vision camera, keyless open and start functionality, and a 4-inch multi-color driver information screen. There is also a 7-inch Infotainment center, multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. A larger Infotainment center with navigation, additional USB ports, and even an SD Card reader are all available.
2019 GMC Terrain Denali
While the baseline 2019 GMC Terrain is excellent, the Denali is simply exquisite and provides numerous upgrades and additional features. This is a true luxury SUV that needs to be seen to be fully appreciated.
Power and Performance
The 2019 GMC Terrain Denali comes with a standard 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that offers 252-HP and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. This offers towing power for hauls up to 3,500 lbs. to be pulled behind the Denali. It has automatic stop/start, hill descent control, and dual-outlet exhaust. The Denali also has StabiliTrak with traction control, which is very important in poor weather such as rain, snow, and ice. Even in dirt and mud, traction control can help keep the Denali on the road and keep the driver and passengers safe. The Denali has a 9-speed automatic transmission with electronic precision shift switches.
Design
The look of the Denali is just as sleek and impressive as the 2019 GMC Terrain SLE/SLT, with a few extra features worth mentioning. It has HID headlamps that keep the road well illuminated and are surrounded by C-shape LED lighting for a bold and unique front appearance. The rear liftgate on the GMC Terrain Denali includes hands-free programmable functionality. The liftgate can be opened from the outside with the kick of a foot underneath the rear bumper, making it easier to open when carrying a heavy load. This liftgate can be even be programmed to remember how high to open up each time, making it ideal for repeat loads.
Interior
Luxury runs all throughout the 2019 GMC Terrain Denali, starting with dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows for specific comfort levels for both the driver and front passenger. An interior humidity sensor adjusts temperatures automatically inside the vehicle to keep humidity levels low and adjusts for both the driver and passenger. Heated driver and front passenger seats, front and rear carpeted floor mats, and leather-appointed seats complete the look and feel of the luxurious interior.
Technology
While the Denali shines as a luxurious small SUV, technology is really where GMC pulled out all the stops in its design – not just in terms of what’s available, but what comes standard. Standard tech features include numerous 12V power outlets, a 110V power outlet, remote start, and a universal home remote pad that allows for multiple programmable inputs such as garage door openers.
Wireless charging technology is included with the 2019 GMC Terrain Denali, which uses induction for compatible portable devices, such as smartphones, to charge them without a cord. There is a 4-inch multi-color driver information screen, including a compass display and tire-pressure monitoring system, along with an 8-inch Infotainment system that includes navigation functionality. Multiple USB ports, an SD Card reader, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot all come standard.
The Denali also includes a Bose premium 7-speaker audio system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and power driver and front passenger seats. Available features include automatic parking assist, heated rear seats, and even tablet holders.
Navigating the Road Ahead
The point of all of this is that GMC is coming out swinging in 2019 in the small SUV market with the updated and impressive Terrain. Other manufacturers are going to need to step up their game and match what GMC is doing if they want to stay relevant, or else get steamrolled by what the 2019 GMC Terrain has to offer. But will they? That remains to be seen. All we know is more and more 2019s have been showcased and the features and available options all point toward one thing: the road ahead will be well-traveled by some of the most beautiful and impressive cars, trucks, and SUVs ever made.
