2027 GMC TERRAIN

MSRP: From $30,400

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Overview

The 2027 GMC Terrain compact SUV - the sister car of the Chevrolet Equinox - is settling in nicely, three years after its redesign. It comes in three trims with a choice of FWD or AWD and an 8-speed automatic transmission, all motivated by the same 175-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, but no hybrid options are offered. The AT4 adds some off-road focus, while the Denali occupies the luxury compact corner, but all have the same big 15-inch touchscreen. It’s compact but has a roomy interior, and will appeal to people looking for a no-nonsense compact and don’t mind the lack of engine power.

What's New for 2027

For the 2027 Terrain Elevation trim with FWD, GMC has replaced the CVT automatic with the same 8-speed torque converter automatic the two upper AWD trims already use. This also means the FWD Elevation gets a 19-lb-ft hike in torque to 203 lb-ft. The only other tweak is that the Technology package now also contains remote-viewing cameras.

Exterior

The Terrain is bold and attractive, drawing from GMC’s larger SUVs, and looking smart with its contrasting C-pillar, C-shaped DRLs, and LED front and rear lights. The Elevation and AT4 have a black grille with horizontal chrome slats, but the Denali has a more ornate Galvano Silver affair. The AT4 has some off-road intent with red tow hooks, all-terrain tires, and more ground clearance. The base trims have 17-inch wheels, upgradable to 19s on the Elevation, and the Denali rides on 19s, upgradable to 20s.

Interior

The Terrain has a roomy cabin, with nearly 40 inches of rear legroom, yet still offers competitive cargo space that maxes out at over 60 cu-ft. Base amenities include cloth upholstery, a heated steering wheel and front seats, a 15-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, and 6-speaker audio. AT4 adds more durable CoreTec upholstery and dual-zone climate control, while Denali comes with leather upholstery, power front seats with ventilation, heated outboard rear seats, and more. A panoramic sunroof is an option on all trims.

Price Range and Best Value Trim

Last year, the Elevation AWD with its more torque and better transmission was our top choice, but the 2027 FWD Elevation has fixed those problems, so it’s great value at just over $30K, complete with more than 16 safety features, heated front seats, and the big 15-inch touchscreen. Of course, you can always add the AWD for $2K if you need it.

2027 GMC Terrain Specs Overview

All trims share the same engine and transmission; the only choice on the base Elevation is FWD or AWD (all the others are AWD).

Powertrain Options

Performance and 0-60 MPH

Performance is not a strong point, and with only 175 hp on tap to motivate close to 4,000 pounds, the Terrain accelerates to 60 MPH in around 8.5 to 9.4 seconds, depending on the drivetrain and test weight. The AWD drivetrain - standard on AT4 and Denali trims - incorporates hill-descent control.

Fuel Economy (MPG)

Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of the base FWD Elevation increases from 800 to 1,500 lbs, matching the AWD models, thanks to its new 8-speed automatic transmission. AT4 and Denali trims are equipped with a trailer hitch and wiring.

Drivetrain

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard on all Terrains. The Elevation can be had with either FWD or AWD; the top two trims are AWD only. The FWD drivetrain comes with Normal and Snow driving modes, but the selectable AWD system adds AWD and Off-Road modes, along with hill-descent control. The AT4 has off-road-tuned suspension, and AWD models have 0.77 inches more ground clearance than FWD models - up from 5.75 to 6.52 inches.

Dimensions

Interior Space (Front and Rear)

Cargo Space

Warranty

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Bold exterior design
• Standard 15-inch touchscreen
• Many standard safety features
• Comfortable, spacious interior and strong cargo volume
• Google Built-In with wireless smartphone integration

Cons:

• Underpowered 175-hp engine
• No hybrid powertrain available
• AT4 and Denali significantly more expensive than Elevation
• Gas mileage mediocre compared to hybrid rivals

Verdict

The Terrain is a great option in the compact class if you prioritize cabin space and class-leading in-car tech, including a huge touchscreen, while the Elevation gives you the core experience with the most important features at just over $30K. There’s a big price jump to the other trims, making them harder to recommend at around $40K and more, especially considering the weak engine. It struggles on the highway with a load on board and is best for city environments, though the AT4 can master light trail work within the limits of its ground clearance. Another negative remains the lack of any hybrid options.

Competitors

• Hyundai Tucson
• Kia Sportage
• Ford Bronco Sport
• Honda CR-V
• Mazda CX-50

2026-08-04T18:29:39Z