2016 GMC Terrain Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2016 GMC Terrain gains refreshed exterior styling that includes a power dome hood design, chrome-accented grille in higher trim levels, LED daytime running lights, and new 18- and 19-inch wheel designs. Light Titanium/Jet Black two-tone leather is now available in the Denali trim while Saddle Up leather has been added to the SLT grade. Revised center stack and instrument cluster with a storage shelf and updated graphics and a chrome-trimmed transmission shifter round up the changes inside the cabin. SLT models are now available with eight-way power adjustable seats.
Vehicle Summary
The 2016 GMC Terrain is a five-passenger two-row crossover that's mechanically related to the Chevrolet Equinox and is available in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. A 182-hp 2.4-liter I-4 serves as the base engine while a 301-hp 3.6-liter V-6 is optional. Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Overview
Inside the 2016 Terrain, there's plenty of room for four passengers while cargo space is generous behind the split-folding rear seats at 31.6 cubic feet. Folding down the second row increases the Terrain's cargo volume to 63.9 cubic feet; however, this is down compared to some of its competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Additionally, the Fiat 500L tall hatchback and Volkswagen Golf SportWagen offer more space without sacrificing fuel economy. Denali models offer more upscale equipment to distinguish it from lower-grade models in the Terrain lineup.
The optional 301-hp V-6 provides plenty of power to get the car moving even when loaded with passengers or cargo. Denali models also come with dual-flow dampers, which improve ride quality and handling especially over less than perfect surfaces. Handling is respectable for the class but the Terrain's two-ton curb weight means it's not as agile as lighter competitors even with the dual-flow dampers in the Denali model.
Available safety features include blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and forward collision warning.
What We Think
While it remains a relatively decent choice in the two-row crossover segment, the GMC Terrain is showing its age. In a comparison test that pitted the pre-2016 Terrain against the Kia Sorento, we said that the Denali model provides a good ride and controlled body motions thanks to the standard dual flow dampers. We also tested the Terrain's mechanical twin, the Chevrolet Equinox, and in a 2013 First Drive, we noted that the base 182-hp I-4 was sluggish and struggled to pull the two-ton crossover when loaded with people or cargo.
Key Competitors
- Honda CR-V
- Mazda CX-5
- Toyota RAV4
- Nissan Rogue
- Ford Escape
