2012 GMC Terrain - An Impressive 4 Cylinder SUV

The front-wheel drive Terrain is driven by a standard 182-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. All four models can be upgraded to accept E85 Flex Fuel, to use an engine block heater, or to provide all-wheel drive. All models except the base SLE-1 can be selected with a 264-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine. Towing capacity is 1,500 pounds for the four-cylinder engine and 3,500 pounds for the V6. Fuel economy ranges from 17 mpg city/24 highway for the V6 all-wheel drive to 22/32 for the four-cylinder front-wheel drive.

Standard features on the basic SLE-1 include 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, daytime running lights, and heated side mirrors. A chrome appearance package is optional. The SLE-2 adds standard luggage rails and optional luggage crossbars, 18-inch or 19-inch wheels, and power sunroof. Upgrading to the SLT-1 includes the same standard and optional features as the SLE-2 and adds optional Chrome and Technology package and power liftgate. The top-of-the-line SLT-2 gains standard 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, chrome exterior package, power liftgate, and power sunroof. The Chrome and Technology Package, 19-inch wheels, and luggage crossbars remain optional.

The SLE-1 comes with Bluetooth connectivity, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rearview camera, tilt and telescopic steering column, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The SLE-2 adds standard power driver's seat and single-zone automatic climate control, as well as optional cargo package, navigation system, heated front seats, and remote starter. Upgrading to the SLT-1 gains standard heated front seats and remote starter; other options are the same as for the SLE-2. Finally, the SLT-2 comes with standard Rear Park Assist and optional navigation system, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, and IntelliLink.

The SLE-1 includes standard Color Touch Radio System with CD player, six speakers, USB port, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. The remaining trim levels upgrade to a premium Pioneer audio system with eight speakers and add the option of substituting a touchscreen navigation system. The SLT-2 alone can come with a fancier navigation system and rear DVD system.

Standard devices include ABS, stability control, traction control, a full set of airbags including side curtain, and OnStar. On NHTSA tests, the Terrain earned an overall four stars out of five, and on IIHS tests, if was given the highest possible rating on each test.

The automotive press has praised the classy interior, sleek style, fuel efficiency, and comfortable passenger cabin. Cargo space is slightly smaller than that of competitors though.

Some reviewers feel that the four-cylinder engine is adequate for most people's needs, but that the V6 would be an excellent choice for drivers with high hauling needs. The cabin is quiet and the ride quality feels solid and comfortable, although overall the Terrain is not unusually responsive to handling.