2024 GMC Terrain SUV

　　

2024 GMC Terrain Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　The 2024 GMC Terrain is a compact SUV with seating for five and standard or optional all-wheel drive, depending on trim. It's a worthy choice if you like the muscular exterior design and classy, understated looks, or simply have an affinity for the GMC brand, but the Terrain's competitors outshine it on nearly every level. The interior is accommodating, trimmed with high-quality materials and upholstery, and insulation that tames most wind and road noise. The fold-flat front passenger seat is also handy for loading long items. But these few high points can't overcome a weak engine, small cargo area and a premium GMC price.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 GMC Terrain SLE 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$146/mo  for Terrain SLE

　　Terrain SLE

　　SLE 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) (Most Popular) - $28,700 MSRPSLE 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $30,300 MSRPSLT 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $32,700 MSRPSLT 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $34,300 MSRPAT4 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $35,495 MSRPDenali 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $38,600 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

zzdcar spotlight: Marking time

An all-new, redesigned Terrain is likely to debut next year, so the 2024 GMC Terrain is really just a placeholder until the next generation arrives. Not surprisingly, changes are minor. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are moved to the Terrain's package of extra driver aids, which is now standard on the top two trims (optional for the others). Despite flaws, the Terrain has some things going for it. A power liftgate, standard on most trims, and low rear bumper make loading cargo easy. Active noise cancellation helps keep the cabin quiet. But to better compete, the next Terrain will need more power and better driving dynamics. A larger engine from the GM portfolio could help, as could an electric assist system.

　　

Competitors to consider

The abundance of good compact SUVs makes the Terrain a tough sell. In fact, it ranks dead last in our small SUV ratings, a list topped by the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V. Both offer snappier performance, similarly upscale interiors and more cargo space. Both are also simply more fun to drive, especially the Mazda. The Kia Sportage is stylish, loaded with features, costs less and has cavernous cargo space. The Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan and Ford Escape are also all solid choices, and the Subaru Forester is a good pick if you need genuine off-road capability.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Below Average

　　6.5

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

6.0/10

　　How does the Terrain drive? Unfortunately, the Terrain's base engine lacks power, the transmission is slow-witted, and the powertrain's focus on fuel economy eliminates snappy acceleration. In zzdcar' testing, it took 9.3 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is very slow.

　　Elsewhere, this SUV performs better. The brakes bite smoothly and evenly, with a good relationship between pedal pressure and actual stopping power. The steering is slow and a bit mushy, but steering effort weights up nicely at highway speeds, imparting more confidence and a sense of stability. The Terrain is capable and balanced on twisty roads and keeps body roll in check. It's not sporty, but the Terrain remains stable and composed through turns at reasonably high speeds.

　　

Comfort

6.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Terrain? The Terrain is prone to regular low-impact shocks, vibration and jostling on even moderately rough surfaces like bumpy streets. Road and tire noise is limited to a muted, dull hum on most road surfaces. The front seats are firm but comfortable, and they hold up well over long road trips. The rear seats, meanwhile, are relatively firm and flat. 

　　There's a simple control layout besides the four buttons for the vent mode, which is excessive. The central vertical vents distribute air poorly, though. The seats offer cushion-only or cushion-and-seatback heating, which is a nice feature.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below