GMC Terrain

The Redesigned 2018 Terrain and its twin, the Chevrolet Equinox, bring tidier dimensions, in line with the small SUV segment. The new Terrain aims to be a more premium small SUV. The base engine is a 170-hp 1.5-liter, and the uplevel choice is a 252-hp 2.0-liter. Both the 2.0-liter and the available four-cylinder diesel are mated to a nine-speed automatic. Unlike the Equinox, the gear selector is controlled by an unintuitive dash-mounted push buttons. GMC's IntelliLink infotainment system, one of the better ones out there, comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. For active safety, forward-collision warning and low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning, and blind-spot warning are offered.

Like its Chevrolet Equinox twin, the GMC Terrain straddles the small- and midsized-SUV categories. The Terrain has a taut yet supple and controlled ride, with responsive and secure handling. Both the 3.6-liter V6 and the more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine feel sluggish and have to work hard. The reluctant transmission blunts the performance of the V6, and its gas mileage is mediocre. Visibility to the side and rear is limited. At least the rear seat is roomy. Rearview camera is standard and blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available. Reliability has been above average but the Terrain scored too low for us to recommend. A 2018 redesign goes on sale soon.

The Terrain is GMC's entry in the small to midsized SUV segment. While a decent enough offering, the model's competition is significantly better. The five-passenger mid-size SUV consumes fuel more like seven-passenger full-size models. That said; if you're considering getting one, look for at least an SLE-2, which comes with the power driver's seat. A rearview camera is standard regardless of trim. While the standard four-cylinder engine manages to get the job done, the optional V6 is a more enjoyable choice. Terrain's 2013 freshening brought a more powerful 3.6-liter V6, as well as a revised interior with new infotainment technology. For 2015, changes include a standard built-in WiFi hotspot. Advanced optional safety features, including blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, joined forward-collision and lane-departure warning systems for 2016.