Is The GMC Terrain a Reliable Vehicle?
Is The GMC Terrain a Reliable Vehicle?
Posted on April 26, 2024
Are you one of many SUV owners or next car buyers considering reliability as a top priority when purchasing a vehicle? The GMC Terrain, a compact SUV that has carved its niche in a crowded market, stands out for more than just its rugged looks. It's the promise of quality that has piqued the interest of many prospective SUV buyers.
Okotoks GM provides an in-depth look at the GMC Terrain's reliability, from safety features to consumer satisfaction. We'll highlight performance in various conditions, standard advanced safety systems, and the comfort and technology available. This overview will equip you with the essential information to assess if the Terrain is reliable enough for life and work in Okotoks, Alberta, and Canada.
Key Takeaways
- The GMC Terrain relies on reliable 1.5L, 4-cylinder engine performance, with all wheel drive (AWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD) options and smooth handling.
- Safety is a standout feature, with the Terrain earning multiple passes from Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and GMC Pro Safety Plus.
- While on the drive, users report intuitive infotainment, with reliable integration with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant.
- Standard LED headlamps and tail-lights, optional off-road mode, and standard traction select system make for reliable driving experience in good-to-fair conditions.
- The average lifespan of a well-maintained GMC Terrain is approximately 320,000 Km (200,000 miles).
- J.D. Power rates multiple years of the GMC Terrain from 88-83% in the reliability category in the last five years, with a score of 88 for 2023/2024 releases.
GMC Terrain: Performance and Reliability
The GMC Terrain's reliability begins with engine and transmission, but overall vehicle reliability score has to do with many more factors!
The GMC Terrain excels in performance, much like the similarly reliable Chevrolet Equinox. This compact SUV shines with a smooth ride, powered by a hardworking and efficient 4-cylinder engine.
Among the GMC Terrains, this engine can take you from 0-100km/h in 9.3 seconds, and its handling on winding roads is notably stable and composed, allowing for carried momentum through mountain passes and freeway.
Many car buyers prioritize reliability, and the Terrain meets this expectation impressively. It’s not just about the solid build quality, but also about the thoughtful engineering and design that goes into every detail.
The Terrain sports a high reliability score on J.D. Power, which is a testament to GMC’s commitment to quality and durability. So whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, you can count on the Terrain to deliver a reliable performance every time.
Engine Performance
The 2024 GMC Terrain houses a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine. This powertrain churns out 175 horsepower and 203 feet-pounds of torque, offering enough power for most daily driving needs. This output is a step up from the 2021 Terrain model, which offered a 170-horsepower base four-cylinder engine.
It's got a great balance between raw power, reliable control, responsive torque, and lots of acceleration whenever it's needed.
Transmission Performance
The 2024 Terrain’s 9-speed automatic transmission enhances the performance of the engine in several ways:
- Ensures smooth gear changes.
- Provides optimum power delivery at all speeds.
- Delivers the right amount of power when you need it, whether you’re accelerating from a stop or overtaking on the highway.
With the Terrain’s advanced transmission system, you can trust that you’ll have a smooth and powerful driving experience.
Safety Features and Standards
For any car buyer, safety is a critical concern, and the GMC Terrain confidently addresses this need. It has passed Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations - Schedule III over multiple years, reinforcing its status as a safe and reliable SUV.
Beyond ratings, the Terrain is equipped with tons of safety features aiming to secure you and your passengers. From its advanced active safety systems to its passive safety features, the Terrain goes the extra mile to ensure you enjoy a safe and secure ride every time you hit the road.
Active Safety Systems
The infotainment screen serves reliably as a part of an integrated active and passive safety system.
The 2024 GMC Terrain includes GMC Pro Safety Plus as a standard feature suite, providing an extensive array of driver assistance technologies. In the Terrain SLE, standard safety features include:
- LED headlights
- Automatic high beams
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keep assist
- Rear-seat alert
But the Terrain’s active safety system doesn’t end there. It also includes:
- Forward collision alert
- Following distance indicator
- Front pedestrian braking
- Adaptive cruise control with camera technology
- Lane change alert with side blind zone alert
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- IntelliBeam automatic headlamps
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
These systems collaborate to enhance road safety and reduce the likelihood of collisions.
Passive Safety Features
Apart from its active safety systems, the GMC Terrain also provides substantial passive safety features. It is equipped with parking sensors, dual-stage frontal airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags for front and rear outboard seating positions, and head-curtain airbags for all rows. This comprehensive airbag system provides enhanced protection for all passengers in the event of a collision.
Additionally, the Terrain’s safety cage is constructed with high-strength steel to enhance passenger protection. For families with small children, the Terrain also offers two complete sets of LATCH connectors for securing child safety seats and a safety alert seat feature that vibrates, ensuring the safety alert seat vibrates effectively.
In compliance with Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, all vehicles must pass Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations - Schedule III to qualify for sale in Canada. The GMC Terrain has passed almost all approved tests including:
- Roof Crush Resistance
- Light Vehicle Brake Systems
- Seat Belt Anchorages
- Mirrors and Rear Visibility Systems
- Fuel System Integrity - Rear
- Ejection Mitigation
- Occupant Protection in Frontal Impacts
- Fuel System Integrity
Interior Comfort and Features
Interior comfort features like heated bucket seats and robust technological systems last years and are guaranteed by the 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty
A comfortable and finely equipped interior can make trips in this vehicle a pleasure. The front and rear seats offer firm support and comfort, best for long drives. The Terrain also connects you with a range of standard technological features, including a 7-inch touch screen, built-in Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
Higher trims of the Terrain, such as the SLT, come with additional upgrades like:
- an 8-inch touch screen
- dual-zone automatic climate control
- ambient lighting
- a 120-volt power outlet
The GMC Terrain stands out for its quiet ride, keeping road and tire noise to a minimum, conveying a muted hum on most road surfaces. The dashboard controls, including the steering wheel, are simple and easy to use, adding to the overall cabin ambiance.
Lastly, the Terrain features a spacious stow area and is outfitted with quality materials in higher trims. Of course, the best way to test reliable comfort is by taking it for a test drive yourself!
Seating and Cargo Space
For practicality and versatility, the GMC Terrain is a standout. It provides 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which increases to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats down, plus a fold-down front seat for extra-long items.
The Terrain offers reliable comfort with standard cloth seats and power adjustments, upgradeable to leather upholstery with purchase of an AT4 or Denali Terrain.
Infotainment System
A 7-inch infotainment screen comes standard but AT4 and Denali models come with an 8-inch screen.
In terms of tech, the GMC Terrain is equipped with a powerful infotainment system. The standard infotainment features include:
- 7-inch touch screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Satellite radio
- Wi-Fi hot spot
- Single-zone automatic climate control
You can expect clear graphics, easy-to-navigate menus, and a quick response to touch commands, ensuring a seamless user experience. Should you wish to upgrade, optional enhancements for the Terrain include:
- 8-inch touch screen
- Navigation
- Wireless device charging
- 120-volt power outlet
- Sunroof
- Heated steering wheel
Connectivity in the Terrain is facilitated by an intuitive touchscreen interface and the inclusion of standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a built-in Amazon Alexa feature, all with the option to upgrade to an advanced Bose sound system. With these features at your fingertips, the Terrain ensures every journey stays reliably entertaining.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy
Fuel efficiency is a significant consideration for any car buyer, and here, the GMC Terrain does not disappoint. It averages 9.8 L/100 km added a link, since seemed like it's a fact we want to show a source for in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice among compact SUVs.
If efficiency is your goal, the FWD Terrain model is a cost-effective choice, offering up to 9.41 L/100km in urban settings and 7.84 L/100km for highway driving. The AWD variant, while slightly less efficient in highways at 8.4 L/100km, still presents a balanced option. If you're curious how that affects performance, test drive both at Okotoks GM!
Common Issues and Concerns With The GMC Terrain
Even the most reliable cars have their quirks depending on the model year and the GMC Terrain is no exception. That said, the issues reported by recent model Terrain owners are relatively minor and don’t detract from the car’s reliability in general.
Some owners of the 2017 GMC Terrain have reported airbag issues, and older models, including the 2015 version, might need fixes in their electronic stability control systems.
Other reported issues include some units' problems with the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system in the 2014 model. However, it’s important to note that these are isolated incidents and don’t reflect the overall reliability of the GMC Terrain. Newer models have redressed most issues you'll find.
On the whole, the Terrain remains a reliable and well-regarded compact SUV, offering excellent performance, comfort, and safety features. Check out available GMC recall information if you aren't sure about your GMC Terrain.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The SLT base model has all the most essential features, with a choice between FWD and AWD at different price points.Four trim levels are available for the 2024 GMC Terrain. The great thing about these trims is that they share common features and a name with trims on other GMC vehicles; you can get the same trim on the GMC Acadia or GMC Sierra as well as the GMC Terrain. Trim levels are named as follows:
- SLE
- SLT
- AT4
- Denali
Each package offers a unique combination of features and specifications adding to overall reliability; you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
The starting MSRP for the 2024 GMC Terrain entry-level FWD SLE trim will only cost around $35,674, offering a great balance of features and value. And don't forget that a different year might offer the price point and features you're looking for! You can always check out our used vehicles inventory and filter for a GMC Terrain with various trims based on availability.
For those seeking a bit more luxury and the latest features, the MSRP of the 2024 GMC Terrain mid-range SLT AWD starts at $37,774 and the AT4 AWD is upwards of $42,074 MSRP in Okotoks, Alberta. These trims come with additional features and enhancements that elevate the driving experience:
- Leather-appointed seating
- Heated front seats
- Power liftgate
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 8-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment System
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Warranty and Maintenance
With a three-year/58,000 km bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a five-year/100,000 km powertrain warranty, the 2024 GMC Terrain offers peace of mind with your purchase. As for maintenance, the Terrain’s recommended schedule suggests the following tasks:
- Tire rotation every 12,000 km
- Oil and filter change every 12,000 km
- Door lubrication every 12,000 km
- Air filter replacement at specified mileages, noted in user manual
These are just a few examples of the maintenance tasks recommended for the GMC Terrain. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for the complete maintenance schedule. If you already have a GMC Terrain from Okotoks GM, schedule a service mechanic before winter and summer each year!
Ask Your Local GM Expert In Okotoks About Getting Into The GMC Terrain
The GMC Terrain model that's right for you, depends on your needs; ask a sales expert for advice on the most reliable trim for you!
The GMC Terrain stands out as a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. With its impressive performance, high reliability, comprehensive safety features, comfortable interior, robust infotainment system, and excellent fuel efficiency, it offers a well-rounded package that’s hard to beat.
If you're serious about discovering the reliability of this vehicle, the best thing we can do is to invite you to Okotoks GM for a chat about the year and trim that's right for you. You can even reserve upcoming 2025 editions of the Terrain with us!
Whether you’re a city dweller in need of a versatile daily driver or an adventurer looking for a capable off-roader, the Terrain has got you covered. So why wait? It’s time to hit the open road with a new GMC Terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2024 GMC Terrain have?
The 2024 GMC Terrain is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque, offering a good balance of power and efficiency. Whether you choose AWD or FWD trims can impact how that power translates to performance!
What safety features does the GMC Terrain have?
The GMC Terrain has city and highway safety features such as GMC Pro Safety Plus, forward collision alert, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. You can always ask an expert at Okotoks GM for information on the Terrain's Canadian safety standards compliance.
How much cargo space does the GMC Terrain offer?
The GMC Terrain offers 29.6 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, and it can be expanded to 63.3 cubic feet when shifting the rear seats. Perfect for all your hauling needs!
How fuel efficient is the GMC Terrain?
The GMC Terrain averages 9.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on the highway, according to Natural Resources Canada. So it's quite fuel efficient for its class. However, higher trims like AT4 and Denali get 10.1 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 L/100 km on highways, mostly due to a standard AWD. Try adaptive cruise control for optimal fuel economy.
What is the warranty for the GMC Terrain?
The GMC Terrain is backed by a limited warranty for three years or 36,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,000 miles. If you're looking for peace of mind, building up a service history at the same dealership that sold to you is a great move. Ask a service technician with access to your Terrain's service record about how to get the most out your warranty!