The 2022 GMC Terrain has a comfortable interior and easy-to-use technology features. But a weak base engine, unresponsive transmission and bouncy ride, along with a high price, hinder the Terrain from standing out in the small SUV class.
Part of the second Terrain generation introduced for 2018
What is the Terrain?
The GMC Terrain is the brand's entry-level small crossover SUV. It's related to the Chevrolet Equinox and shares technology features and powertrains. The second-generation Terrain debuted just a few years ago, but some drawbacks, including a weak base engine and bouncy ride, keep it from taking on Edmunds' top-ranked Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Rogue.
GMC is going to make some changes for 2022. Expect the Terrain to sport updated styling and some new technology features. While we don't expect passenger or cargo space to improve with the refresh — that's one of the vehicle's minuses — the updated Terrain should build on the current model's strong points of comfort and ease of use.
Edmunds says
The GMC Terrain is a solid but unexceptional crossover in a crowded field of small SUVs. Updates for 2022 should help it better compete against class leaders.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Had a 2018 Terrain and now have a 2022. I have nothing negative to say about the Terrain. No, the 1.5L isn’t a powerhouse, but it’s completely adequate around town, and it’s surprisingly quick entering the freeway with ample passing capabilities. Anyone who says the 1.5L is a slug hasn’t driven the car. The ride is firm and well controlled, never bouncy. The upscale cabin is comfortable … and extremely quiet. Gas mileage is very good. Build quality and paintwork are excellent.
2021 GMC Terrain
4 out of 5 stars
S.M., 06/11/2021
2021 GMC Terrain SLT 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
It’s been a about a month with my 2021 GMC Terrain and I absolutely love it. It’s not the fastest car in the world but it’s 4 Cylinder engine can actually run hard and smooth at the same time. As far as the milage it runs on gas, I honestly can’t complain. it’s the perfect size efficient vehicle anyone can ask for.
2021 GMV Terrain SLT
4 out of 5 stars
Stgcret, 04/19/2021
2021 GMC Terrain SLT 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
As of today, April 19/2023 I still own my Terrain purchased in November 2020. It has, so far, not given me a minute's issue.
The 1.5L Turbo is "okay" but the 2.0L Turbo is so much better. The Terrain is a very well thought out vehicle. Back seat flip flat at the push of a button and easily clicks back in to place. Seats are at hip height, which at 71, makes them very easy to slide … in and out. The front bucket seats are fairly comfortable with many power adjustments. The front seats could use another 1/2" to 1" of width. I would buy this beauty again.
UPDATE: I purchase my 2021 GMC Terrain brand new in November 2020 before the chip shortage, that isn't an issue with the 2021 at all. I just hit 20,000 miles a couple of weeks ago and all-in-all has been a pleasure to drive. I'm a big guy of 6' 2" and 285 and I easily slide in and out of my Terrain. Quiet ride and efficient and peppy 1.5L Turbo motor, although I would have preferred the 2.0L Turbo like I had in my 2018 Terrain, but the 2020 was the last year for the 2.0L
On the SLT, that I have, are many positions to adjust the front seat and I do prefer the leather over cloth seats. For a 2-row seat SUV, there is plenty of room and the seats fold down at the touch of button or pull that works with the effort of one finger. I really like the info system and Sirius Radio. I have not used the Navigation or phone interface because I just don't need to. One oddball fact I discovered though is that when you want to take out the Cabin Filter, you have to use a 5.5 mm socket and that size is difficult to find. They need to go to a more conventional size like a 6 mm or 1/4 inch.
UPDATE: I drove my 2021 Terrain SLT Elevation Edition out of the dealer showroom on 11/27/2020. I am 6' 2" and 72 yrs old. I specifically like the way I can slide in and easily slide out of the Terrain. I also find the front seat very comfortable and easy to adjust and has a nice lumbar support. I don't find the road noise so bad, but maybe that is because I have Talk Radio on all the time. I do agree that a 2.0 Turbo would be a better engine option. I owned a 2018 Terrain Denali with the 2.0L and I thought I was in a rocket when I stepped on the gas. I have owned my 2021 for 31 months now and have put 21,530 miles on the ol' girl and have not had a single issue, but there was one "what were they thinking moment" the screw for the driving compartment air filter is a 5.5 mm! I did change that filter at 18,000 miles although the manual called for 30,000 miles. Such an odd and hard to find size. I have changed the oil and filter every 5,000 miles and rotated the tires.
I would like to see the same vehicle but 10" to 12" longer and maybe 4" to 6" wider to fit just a bit more beefy seat like the Tahoe has. Other than that I will most likely buy another Terrain and for sure if they reinstate the 2.0L Turbo.
Ingot rid of my 2020 acadia as wife complained too big. Well got a 2022 at4 terrain and wife loves it and really like it too. Going from my 6 cyl in acadia had me worried but that 9 speed tranny takes care of any doubts i had . Shifts smooth , no hunting like my wifes former crv cvt.
Mileage is great ,ride solid . Glad we bought and would buy again.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2022 GMC Terrain, so we've included reviews for other years of the Terrain since its last redesign.
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