GMC Terrain SUV Review
SUV Reviewer
The GMC Terrain hasn't changed much between the 2010 model and the 2011 model. The major improvement that offers the new 2011 model an advantage is the higher grade voice recognition technology that has improved the OnStar feature. This crossover is a midsize version of what consumers like best about SUVs as well as what they like best about driving a smaller vehicle. It offers a refinement not found throughout many of the "tougher" competitors while still providing a good and solid ride for the towing and hauling needs of today.
With 4 different models to choose from the GMC Terrain is one of the middle of road picks from most of the car critics of today. It definitely has some advantages like the significant room of the back seat but it also has its drawbacks like lacking a sporty feel behind the wheel. Choosing this crossover is most often done by consumers that plan to work it hard and still want reasonable comfort for family trips.
The rearview camera and the reclining backseat are just two simple but effective features when making the GMC Terrain one of the runners in the race. A six way adjustment option on the driver's seat helps to improve driver functionality and comfort while the telescoping steering column creates a personalized feel for maximizing driver functions. An automatic dimming rearview mirror, cruise control, heated mirrors, six speaker stereo with iPod connectivity and CD player make the cabin more functional and fun for all kinds of tasks.
The 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine amps up the 182 horsepower and 172 pounds of torque for the GMC Terrain. The six speed automatic transmission provides power to the standard front wheel drive. Regardless of which model you select there is always the upgrade option of all wheel drive.
The GMC Terrain has been tested and timed from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 9.4 seconds, which is clear evidence of slower than average pick up. The fuel efficiency of the Terrain is above average on paper, which shows 22 city miles per gallon and 32 highway miles per gallon. However, consumers and car testers alike have registered less fuel economy than stated on paper.
The cargo hold of the GMC Terrain is not quite as impressive as its vitally roomy back seat. With the back seat pushed back for the maximum legroom you're going to find that your ability carry gear is significantly diminished. When the rear seat is in its front most position the nearly 64 cubic feet of cargo is still on the shy side. The roomy backseat is a big family selling point. If you've ever tried to stuff a car seat into a less roomy car or SUV you know exactly how important a little room can be.
Overall the GMC Terrain is not going to provide exhilarating performance or knock you over with cavernous space for hauling your gear but it will give you reasonable fuel performance, solid quality, and a good place for the kids to sit when traveling long distances.
With 4 different models to choose from the GMC Terrain is one of the middle of road picks from most of the car critics of today. It definitely has some advantages like the significant room of the back seat but it also has its drawbacks like lacking a sporty feel behind the wheel. Choosing this crossover is most often done by consumers that plan to work it hard and still want reasonable comfort for family trips.
The rearview camera and the reclining backseat are just two simple but effective features when making the GMC Terrain one of the runners in the race. A six way adjustment option on the driver's seat helps to improve driver functionality and comfort while the telescoping steering column creates a personalized feel for maximizing driver functions. An automatic dimming rearview mirror, cruise control, heated mirrors, six speaker stereo with iPod connectivity and CD player make the cabin more functional and fun for all kinds of tasks.
The 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine amps up the 182 horsepower and 172 pounds of torque for the GMC Terrain. The six speed automatic transmission provides power to the standard front wheel drive. Regardless of which model you select there is always the upgrade option of all wheel drive.
The GMC Terrain has been tested and timed from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 9.4 seconds, which is clear evidence of slower than average pick up. The fuel efficiency of the Terrain is above average on paper, which shows 22 city miles per gallon and 32 highway miles per gallon. However, consumers and car testers alike have registered less fuel economy than stated on paper.
The cargo hold of the GMC Terrain is not quite as impressive as its vitally roomy back seat. With the back seat pushed back for the maximum legroom you're going to find that your ability carry gear is significantly diminished. When the rear seat is in its front most position the nearly 64 cubic feet of cargo is still on the shy side. The roomy backseat is a big family selling point. If you've ever tried to stuff a car seat into a less roomy car or SUV you know exactly how important a little room can be.
Overall the GMC Terrain is not going to provide exhilarating performance or knock you over with cavernous space for hauling your gear but it will give you reasonable fuel performance, solid quality, and a good place for the kids to sit when traveling long distances.
The V4 lacks any real power. V6 is better for passing. The ride is extremely comfortable and smooth at speeds up to 85mph. The exterior is sharp and classy. Interior is very roomy and well appointed. There is an annoying red stitch is the cloth seats, but the leather seats look awesome. There are a few blind spots while backing up, but the automatic rear camera is spot on effective. I test drove the Toyota fJCruiser and 4Rav and there was no comparison for quality and ride. FJCruiser's ride reminded me of a Jeep. I think when Toyota makes a luxury edition with some interior upgrades it will be a nice option, but now it is too much designed for off road and so unpractical. The 4Rav was nice on the outside, but appeared cheap and plastic interior was a turn off. THe GMC Terrian has so much standard on it, that it is hard to beat. Pluses for looks, comfort, extras, performance, and warranty. Minus for power, but the v6 models are good with plenty of passing power. One other small minus for exterior antenna, it is about 11 inches and hits my garage door (old house) GMC does not offer a short one, I bought one for $30 called a stubby from cravenspeed.com. On the GMC forum, lots of buyers had this problem. For the money I was extremely pleased. I bought a Terrian SLT2, all wheel drive, with leather seats, power hatch,heated seats, and V6. It also has a sun roof (not an option in FJ Cruiser), @ weeks later i am still grinning at the looks and the ride. Really a classy auto.
I have a GMC Terrain 2011. V4. I experienced that in the city the gas consumption is not what you expect;however, I was able to achieve 32miles/gl on highway. WHat we had experience in the last months are problems with the transmission. I heard at the dealer that other owners are reporting the same problem. The car has only 7 months old and I bought it new. So, if you are experiencing that the changes in the transmission are not ok, go to the service dealer. The problem is real.
Why on earth would you compare the FJ Cruiser to the Terrain? These are completely different types of vehicles for a completely different audience. Toyota is NEVER going to make a "luxury" version of the FJ Cruiser -- it's a competitor of the Jeep Wrangler and Nissan Xterra; it's a vehicle for off-roading enthusiasts. The RAV4 (not 4RAV - lol) and the Terrain are small crossovers -- a totally different market!