Used 2013 GMC Terrain Denali SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

Performance

The 2013 GMC Terrain Denali SUV Crossover is one of those vehicles you only have to drive a few short minutes to be absolutely hooked. The standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is as lively as it is fuel-efficient. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine offers 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, and returns 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. That’s some of the best fuel efficiency you will see in an SUV with this much cabin space. Terrain Denali also offers an optional 3.6-liter V6 that is good for 301 horsepower and 372 pound-feet of torque, and can tow 3,500 pounds with ease. All-wheel drive is optional, and fuel economy is respectable at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. One thing you will notice is that Terrain Denali does have a fairly large turning circle of 40 feet, so don’t expect to maneuver or park in tight spaces, without a bit of a challenge. That being said, this SUV is incredibly composed on the road. It glides over bumps as if the surface is smooth, as Denali gets special shocks in the rear to cushion the ride.

Technology

• Audio - The Color Touch Radio with IntelliLink is phenomenal. It features voice-activated controls, USB and Bluetooth, a reconfigurable home screen, smartphone integration, iPod control, eight Pioneer speakers, one subwoofer and 250 watts of power.
• Navigation - Find your way quickly and easily with the Color Touch Navigation System. It features multiple map views, IntelliLink connected technology and integrated SiriusXM traffic and weather.
• Universal Garage Door Opener - Three simple buttons allow you to control separate channels to nearly any radio-frequency-controllable device, such as a garage door, community entry gate and home security system.

Safety

The GMC Terrain Denali receives top safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in roof, front and side-impact protection. Plus, when braking was tested, this rather large vehicle was able to stop from 60 mph in only 121 feet, which is shorter than average for this segment. It receives OnStar emergency communications system that gives you an emergency assistance button, automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle assistance and more. Other safety features include:
• Blind spot monitoring
• Cross-traffic alert
• Rear park assist
• Collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Traction control
• Engine immobilizer
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Stability control
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Seatbelt pretensioners
• Rear door safety locks
• Emergency braking assist
• Child seat anchors

Appearance

The bold yet sophisticated design of the exterior is one that will definitely turn heads on the road for all the right reasons. It gets a gorgeous chrome Denali grille, shiny chrome accents, body-colored fascias in the front and rear, new headlamps and taillights, Denali-exclusive wheels and integrated exhaust outlets.

Comfort

The GMC Denali refinement is seen in the Terrain model in a big way. A premium look is accomplished with wood accents and soft leather throughout. A steering wheel that is embellished in leather with mahogany wood grain inserts welcomes you as you sink into a plush leather seat with “Denali” logo stitched on it. Ambient lighting offers the finishing touch. Rear seat passengers have plenty of room and the Terrain Denali comes standard with a sliding rear seat that allows you to optimize whether you need more passenger or cargo space. To ensure the cabin is quiet as a vault, an acoustic windshield and active noise-cancellation system mutes wind and tire noise.

Cargo

Although the Terrain Denali does give you 63.7 cubic feet behind the front seat, this is actually less than some direct competition in this segment. With the rear seat in place, you get 31.6 cubes.