2017 GMC Terrain Review
2017 GMC Terrain Review





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Used Terrain for sale
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2022 TERRAIN
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*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. See your GMC dealer for details.
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Edmunds' Expert Review

byJosh Sadlier
Director of Content Strategy
Josh Sadlier has worked in the automotive industry since 2008. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.Pros
- Spacious backseat that slides and reclines for added comfort
- Optional V6 engine makes this crossover faster than most competitors
- Interior stays quiet at highway speeds
- Supple suspension soaks up impacts on rough roads
Cons
- Four-cylinder engine feels sluggish and real-world mpg falls short of EPA ratings
- Less cargo space than many rivals
- Touchscreen is hard to reach
- Dated interior design reflects the Terrain's advanced age
What’s new
Largely unchanged from last year, the 2017 GMC Terrain gets standard 18-inch alloy wheels and adds a black-trimmed Nightfall appearance package to its options list.
Vehicle overview
Crossover SUV shoppers just can't quit the strong-selling 2017 GMC Terrain. But the current-generation Terrain is now in its eighth year on the market, and every major rival has received an overhaul during that stretch. How does the Terrain stay in the game? The roomy backseat certainly helps, as does the powerful optional V6 engine. We'll also mention the quiet, comfortable ride as a relative strength in this class.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 GMC Terrain SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A) 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 $3.76 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$184/mo
Terrain SLE-1
vs
$208/mo
Avg. Compact SUV

The Denali version of the 2017 Terrain receives special styling details. The model's overall look is getting pretty familiar, though.
But as you might imagine, time hasn't been kind to the Terrain in some other respects. The base four-cylinder engine provides both underwhelming acceleration and disappointing real-world fuel economy, while the dashboard is showing its age thanks to a hard-to-reach touchscreen and some ergonomic faux pas. Furthermore, smartphone users -- i.e., just about every car shopper these days -- should note that Bluetooth audio connectivity isn't even available on the two lowest trim levels (SL and SLE-1).
The 2017 Terrain remains a versatile and generally competent crossover, but we'd recommend taking a close look at a number of its rivals before making a final decision. Segment leaders include the enduringly well-rounded Honda CR-V, the significantly refreshed Toyota RAV4 and the sporty yet practical Mazda CX-5. We also like the redesigned Kia Sportage, which has a big backseat like the Terrain, along with contemporary cabin technology. Faced with distinguished competitors like these, the 2017 GMC Terrain has its work cut out if it wants to win your heart.
The 2017 GMC Terrain is fitted with standard antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags and a rearview camera. Also standard is GM's OnStar emergency communications system, which includes automatic crash notification, an emergency assistance button, remote door unlock and stolen vehicle assistance.
Lane-departure warning, forward-collision alert, rear parking sensors and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert are optional on the SLE-2 and SLT trim levels and standard on Denali.
In Edmunds testing, a Terrain Denali V6 AWD stopped from 60 mph in a satisfactory 122 feet.
In government crash tests, the Terrain earned an overall score of four stars out of five, with four stars for overall frontal-impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Terrain the best possible rating of "Good" in its small-overlap frontal-offset, moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. The seat/head restraint design was also rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Are you searching for a compact crossover SUV with a big backseat? The 2016 GMC Terrain fits the bill, and it also offers a powerful V6 that will leave most rivals in the dust. Read on to see if the Terrain has what it takes to keep up with the pack in other respects.
Driving
Ride quality is excellent in the 2017 GMC Terrain. The comfort-tuned suspension soaks up road imperfections, and extensive sound-deadening measures make this affordable crossover unusually quiet on the highway. The cushier suspension in the Denali version makes the ride even more agreeable. There's a price to be paid for the soft ride, however, as the Terrain is out of its element when the road starts to bend. If you want a more engaging driving experience, the Mazda CX-5 would certainly suit you better.

The 2017 Terrain's imposing grille is backed up by potent acceleration with the optional V6 engine.
The four-cylinder GMC Terrain doesn't feel very potent in most situations. You'll have the gas pedal floored during routine merging and passing maneuvers, which can get on your nerves over time. If you're looking for a more enjoyable driving experience, the V6 is definitely the way to go. With 301 horses on tap, it's one of the most capable engines in any crossover in this price range.
Interior
Although GMC is primarily known as a truck brand, the tastefully appointed interior of the GMC Terrain shows a softer side. The dashboard is styled in two graceful curves, with gauges and secondary controls treated to bright red back lighting. The center stack has survived nearly untouched since the Terrain's debut in 2010, however, so it unsurprisingly looks dated when compared to most other vehicles in this segment. In particular, many of the buttons are small and hard to differentiate at a glance.

We like that this 7-inch touchscreen comes standard on every 2017 Terrain, but its ergonomics and responsiveness leave something to be desired.
The standard 7-inch color touchscreen display lends a high-tech feel to even the base model Terrain, and the IntelliLink interface (standard starting on the SLE-2 model) is a worthwhile enhancement, as it thankfully includes Bluetooth audio as well as Pandora and Stitcher integration. On the downside, the slanted screen is more than an arm's length away from the driver, and the small, fiddly virtual buttons make it difficult to navigate the on-screen menus. In addition, the system's occasional slow or missed responses to touch inputs can be frustrating.
The front bucket seats are comfortable, and the standard sliding rear seat allows you to optimize rear-seat legroom or cargo capacity, depending on your needs. But even when primed for cargo, the Terrain can't carry as much stuff as some other crossovers. With the rear seats folded, the Terrain's 63.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity is noticeably less than that of the Honda CR-V, among other rivals. With the rear seats carrying passengers, the Terrain offers a so-so 31.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
2017 GMC Terrain models
The 2017 GMC Terrain is available in five trim levels: SL, SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT and Denali.
Standard equipment for the base SL trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera, cruise control, a power height-adjustable driver seat with power lumbar, a 60/40-split folding rear seat with sliding and reclining functions, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, rear privacy glass, OnStar (with an onboard WiFi hotspot), Bluetooth phone (but not audio) connectivity, a 7-inch touchscreen interface and a six-speaker sound system with an auxiliary audio jack and a USB port.
Move up to the SLE-1 and you get heated mirrors and satellite radio. More importantly, all-wheel drive becomes available.
The SLE-2 builds upon the SLE-1, adding LED daytime running lights, automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat (with power lumbar), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a Pioneer eight-speaker audio system and GM's IntelliLink system, which includes Bluetooth audio, voice controls and compatibility with Pandora and Stitcher smartphone apps. The available Convenience package adds heated front seats and remote engine start.

LED daytime running lights come standard on the SLE-2 trim level and above.
The SLT comes standard with the Convenience package and adds chrome exterior accents, ambient interior lighting and perforated leather upholstery.
Two Driver Alert package levels are available for the SLE-2 and SLT. The first level includes a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors and (on the SLT only) an adjustable power liftgate. The second level adds forward-collision and lane-departure alerts. The SLT-only Memory package includes driver memory settings and an eight-way power passenger seat (with power lumbar).
Also optional on SLE-2 and SLT is the Nightfall package, which includes special 18-inch wheels and various gloss-black exterior accents.
The range-topping Denali has the SLT features as well as 19-inch wheels, an exclusive comfort-oriented suspension and Denali-specific exterior and interior trim. It also includes the Memory and Driver Alert I and II packages.
A navigation system is optional on Terrains in the SLE-2 trim and above.
The 2017 GMC Terrain comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. Optional on SLE-2, SLT and Denali is a 3.6-liter V6 that churns out a hefty 301 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional on all trims except the base SL model.
In Edmunds testing, a mechanically comparable four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox LT with FWD accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds, which is notably slower than average for a small crossover. A Terrain Denali V6 AWD went from zero to 60 in a quick 7.1 seconds.
According to EPA fuel economy estimates, the four-cylinder engine should return 25 mpg combined (21 city/31 highway) with FWD, although we've been unable to match those numbers in our test vehicles. With AWD, the four-cylinder drops to 23 mpg combined (20/28). The V6 is rated at 20 mpg combined (17/24) with FWD and 18 mpg combined (16/23) with AWD.
With the four-cylinder engine, a properly equipped Terrain can tow 1,500 pounds; the V6 increases towing capacity to 3,500 pounds.
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2022 TERRAIN
SLE, SLT, AT4 and Denali
$27,900starting MSRP
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*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. See your GMC dealer for details.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2017 GMC Terrain.
5 star(40%)
4 star(22%)
3 star(16%)
2 star(10%)
1 star(12%)
37 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Best car I ever owned - this is my second one!!
Ingrid,12/21/2016
SLE-2 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
The Terrain not only stands out for it's looks, but it drives great, is dependable, comfortable, offers great features, and is decent on gas. I loved my first one so much that I got a new one. I did look at a few other vehicles, but none in the same class even compare. I have owned almost every make of car out there and the GMC Terrain has been the only one I ever considered owning a … second time around!
5 out of 5 stars
1st Terrain - could not be happier
Southern Newhampshire,04/26/2017
SLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
Chose the SLT AWD with V6 3.6L option. Leather and everything but driver memory feature. Extremely comfortable to drive, V6 has great response. Only observation is down-shifting when coasting around corner then up-hill; seems to hard shift but learned to work the pedal differently.
3 out of 5 stars
HOT IN THE BACK SEAT!
Betty,07/10/2017
SLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
No air vents in the back seat. You have to freeze in the front in order for the back seat to have air. HOT HOT HOT...IT IS AN SLT. ITS NOT THE CHEAPEST TERRAIN. BUT IS IS HOT IN THE BACK.
5 out of 5 stars
GMC Terrain is a good ca
CD,02/18/2018
SLT 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
Leasing my 2nd terrain and I love my car. Road noise is a problem could be much better. Seats could be softer. Tires might hydroplane on wet roads a little. If GMC upped the quality a little it would be perfect. Gas mileage around 26mpg. Engine not gutsy enough on pick up. Love my car. Don't think any car is perfect
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat4 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover19.1%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2017 GMC Terrain
Used 2017 GMC Terrain Overview
The Used 2017 GMC Terrain is offered in the following submodels: Terrain SUV. Available styles include SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A), SLE-2 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A), SLE-2 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A), SLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A), SLT 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A), SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A), Denali 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 6A), Denali 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A), and SL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 6A). Pre-owned GMC Terrain models are available with a 2.4 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 182 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2017 GMC Terrain comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. The Used 2017 GMC Terrain comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2017 GMC Terrain?
Price comparisons for Used 2017 GMC Terrain trim styles:
- The Used 2017 GMC Terrain SLE-1 is priced between $17,590 and$23,998 with odometer readings between 20669 and108446 miles.
- The Used 2017 GMC Terrain SLE-2 is priced between $18,590 and$25,590 with odometer readings between 13849 and109596 miles.
- The Used 2017 GMC Terrain SLT is priced between $17,300 and$27,998 with odometer readings between 21899 and105709 miles.
- The Used 2017 GMC Terrain Denali is priced between $21,500 and$30,998 with odometer readings between 27679 and80256 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2017 GMC Terrains are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 GMC Terrain for sale near. There are currently 120 used and CPO 2017 Terrains listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $17,300 and mileage as low as 13849 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2017 GMC Terrain.
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Should I lease or buy a 2017 GMC Terrain?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out GMC lease specials
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