Following a minor cosmetic touch-up in 2016, GMC's smallest crossover model moves into 2017 with a new Nightfall Edition trim package as its only update. While it doesn't sound like much with its blacked-out exterior trim and wheels, it's actually a sharp-looking package that softens the Terrain's blocky shape.
Terrain's powertrains are carried over: all trims start out with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine, and a 3.6L V6 is the option in SLE-2, SLT and Denali models. Both engines can be had with front- or all-wheel drive, and all versions share a six-speed automatic transmission.
Sharing its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Equinox, the Terrain competes along with its Chevy sibling in the compact crossover class against popular models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Santa Fe. Interior space is decent, but a rear seat that slides fore-and-aft creates the illusion of a cabin larger than this one is.
The V6 is a powerhouse with its 301 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque, but it's happier when it's revving rather than cranking out low-end grunt. This is one of the smoothest-riding small crossovers on the market.
If we have a complaint it's that higher-end models are not as well-equipped as many competitive models: the Denali lacks dual-zone climate control, intelligent keyless entry, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel -- all features you'll find in a number of other cars in this class, not to mention some slotting into the crossover class below.
Fuel consumption estimates range from 10.5/7.3 L/100 km (city/highway)with four-cylinder and FWD to 14.9/10.1 for one with the V6 and AWD.
Standard features in the entry-level SLE-1 trim include a backup camera, wi-fi hotspot, projector beam headlights, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, 17-inch aluminum wheels, rear wiper/washer, six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, USB input, cruise control, driver information centre, carpeted floor mats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power door locks, keyless entry, two-way manual driver's seat, cloth seats, air conditioning, tilt-and-telescopic steering column, tire pressure monitoring and power windows.
SLE-2 models add remote engine start, eight-way power driver's seat, leather-trimmed steering wheel, eight-speaker stereo, automatic climate control, heated front seats, LED daytime running lights and GMC's IntelliLink infotainment system.
SLT models come with standard AWD, and add a chrome exterior package, 18-inch wheels and perforated leather seating.
Finally, the Denali trim piles on a sunroof, satin chrome exterior trim, Denali-specific 18-inch wheels, leather/wood-trimmed steering wheel, power tailgate, rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, blind zone alert, foward collision alert, lane departure warning, navigation and a garage door opener.
Prices start at $28,590 for the SLE-1 FWD and range up to $42,740 for the Denali with its standard AWD.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed