Used 2022 GMC Terrain

Just about every automaker has a compact SUV in its lineup, and most of them tend to blend together. The 2022 GMC Terrain is one entry that manages to stand out in its crowded segment. It’s a good execution of the GMC brand DNA that is both rugged and refined. We wouldn’t call the Terrain a luxury SUV per se, but the range-topping Denali model is an appealing and more affordable alternative to a similarly appointed SUV from a luxury brand.

The updated 2022 GMC Terrain takes an often overlooked crossover and makes it more interesting. A new AT4 model has been added with an emphasis on off-road capability. Additionally, the look has been updated for the whole model range and there’s some newly available technology. The sole engine option is nothing to write home about, but overall the GMC Terrain deserves a look for anyone seeking something a little different in a compact crossover.

Driving the 2022 GMC Terrain is a rather unremarkable experience, but for most drivers in the market for a compact crossover that’s not a bad thing. The sole engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 that makes adequate power and torque to motivate the Terrain, but it’s a bit pokey compared to competitors with more exciting engine options. It’s pretty good on gas, a positive trait if you prioritize efficiency over performance.

While the engine doesn’t excite us, the GMC Terrain is a pleasure to sit in. The seats are comfortable and there’s plenty of room in both rows of seats. The ride is smooth and refined, which contributes to the upscale character of this SUV.

Off-road chops are about average for this segment when equipped with AWD. The new AT4 model is a premium and capable off-road trim with a Traction Select System with an off-road mode, hill descent control, and a rugged appearance package with a front steel skid plate.

The interior of the GMC Terrain has truck-like simplicity, but with a decidedly upscale nature. Inspired by its bigger, more expensive stablemates like the GMC Sierra and Yukon, the inside of the Terrain is a pleasant place to be with user-friendly controls and tech features. One notable frustration is the learning curve of the odd, horizontally-mounted gear-shift buttons.

Interior space is good for both rows of seats. However, cargo space is a little tight. If you’re not planning on regularly hauling a whole lot of cargo it won’t be an issue, but if you’re looking for maximum space from a compact SUV, then you may want to look elsewhere.

Unique exterior design is one of the highlights of the 2022 GMC Terrain. Refreshed for 2022, the Terrain has a bold and premium appearance that’s not quite like anything else in its segment. It does a good job looking different than the mechanically similar Chevy Equinox, and its look can change quite a bit depending on which model you go with.

For example, the Terrain AT4 and Terrain Denali have quite different personalities aesthetically. The Elevation Edition available for the SLE and SLT models adds a moody look with black exterior accents and special wheels. The Terrain is good for shoppers desiring a practical compact SUV that doesn’t blend in with the crowd.

RUGGED AT4 MODEL
We like what we’ve seen so far from the AT4 sub-brand, and we’re glad the Terrain has joined the club. The new Terrain AT4 isn’t an insane off-roader, but it has the capability to tackle moderate off-roading while looking great doing it. It’s great for drivers looking for an SUV that will rarely leave the pavement but is still up for an adventure.

PREMIUM DENALI MODEL
The GMC Terrain Denali gives more expensive compact luxury SUVs a serious run for their money. Not only does it have a premium look and feel inside and out, but it’s loaded with modern technology like a color head-up display, the GMC Pro Safety Plus system, and a premium suspension with enhanced shock control.

Standard equipment on the 2022 GMC Terrain is quite generous, making the lower trims a good value. Standard kit includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus the GMC Pro Safety suite (which includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist). There’s also a premium cloth interior, a Traction Select System, and LED headlights and taillights.

The 2022 GMC Terrain can get pretty fancy when you work your way up the model range and add available options. Starting with the mid-range SLT model, you get leather seats (which are perforated and heated in front), a heated steering wheel, and a hands-free power liftgate. The available Elevation Edition for the SLE and SLT trims adds 19-inch gloss black wheels, a dark front grille, black roof rails, mirror caps, and exterior badging, and more black exterior accents.

The new Terrain AT4 is positioned as an upscale off-roader with features like Goodyear Sport Terrain tires, a Traction Select System with off-road mode, hill descent control, AT4 embroidered headrests, and a special appearance package that includes a front steel skid plate.

Most Terrain models come with the aforementioned GMC Pro Safety technology suite, but the Denali model includes GMC Pro Safety Plus, which adds more features like blind-spot monitoring and rear park assist. Other Denali luxuries include a special appearance package, premium suspension with enhanced shock control, wireless device charging, a head-up display, and some more available features like ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

The 2022 GMC Terrain has one engine choice. It’s a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 that makes enough power to get around but doesn’t offer much excitement. If good fuel economy is more important to you than performance, then you’ll have no complaints about this engine. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. As always, AWD comes with a slight fuel economy penalty.

1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
170 horsepower
203 lb-ft of torque
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/30 mpg (FWD), 25/28 mpg (AWD)