Best GMC Terrain Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each Terrain model year against what used-SUV buyers actually care about, using data from Car and Driver, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Consumer Reports, the IIHS, the EPA, and General Motors. The weighting:

• Reliability and known-problem history — 25%
• Powertrain and drivability — 20%
• Safety equipment and ratings — 20%
• Comfort, quietness, and interior quality — 15%
• Value and used pricing — 15%
• Infotainment and tech — 5%

A year that fixed earlier engine or transmission complaints, added standard safety gear, or improved the controls climbs; a problem-prone or barely-equipped year drops.

1. 2022 GMC Terrain Denali 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2022 GMC Terrain Denali

Engine: 1.5L turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft, 9-speed automatic | Best for: Buyers wanting the most polished, best-equipped Terrain

The 2022 Terrain Denali is the high-water mark of the line. After the 2022 refresh, GMC ditched the unloved push-button transmission controls for a conventional shifter, updated the styling, and improved standard driver aids. The 1.5-liter turbocharged four makes 170 hp and 203 lb-ft through a nine-speed automatic, with available all-wheel drive and an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (FWD). The Denali adds leather, a heated steering wheel, and the quietest cabin of the range. It is the most complete Terrain you can buy used.

Pros:

• Refresh fixed the push-button shifter
• 170-hp turbo with 203 lb-ft and 27 mpg
• Plush Denali cabin and standard aids
• Available all-wheel drive

Cons:

• Highest used price of the Terrains
• 1.5L turbo is adequate, not quick

Verdict: The most refined, best-equipped Terrain — the one to buy if budget allows.

2. 2023 GMC Terrain AT4

2023 GMC Terrain AT4

Engine: 1.5L turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft, 9-speed automatic | Best for: Newest tech with a light off-road look

The 2023 Terrain carried the refreshed second-generation design forward, with the rugged AT4 trim adding all-wheel drive, hill-descent control, and a more capable appearance. The 1.5-liter turbo four continues with 170 hp and 203 lb-ft, and standard safety includes forward-collision alert and automatic emergency braking. As one of the newest examples here, it offers the most current tech and the lowest available mileage.

Pros:

• Newest pre-redesign tech and safety
• AT4 adds AWD and rugged styling
• Proven 203-lb-ft turbo four
• Low used mileage available

Cons:

• Premium used pricing
• AT4 is appearance-focused, not a true off-roader

Verdict: The newest Terrain with a tougher look — great for low-mileage shoppers.

3. 2021 GMC Terrain SLT

Engine: 1.5L turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft, 9-speed automatic | Best for: Near-refresh features at a better price

The 2021 Terrain SLT is the last pre-refresh year and a strong value. It carries the 1.5-liter turbo four (170 hp / 203 lb-ft), standard active-safety features, and the comfortable SLT cabin with leather and heated seats. It still uses the push-button transmission controls, which some buyers dislike, but the lower price versus the 2022 refresh makes it a sensible pick for those who do not mind the layout.

Pros:

• Same turbo engine as the refreshed cars
• Well-equipped SLT cabin
• Lower price than 2022+ models
• Standard driver-assist features

Cons:

• Push-button shifter remains
• Pre-refresh styling and tech

Verdict: A well-equipped Terrain just below the refresh — good value if the shifter doesn't bother you.

4. 2019 GMC Terrain SLE 💎 BEST VALUE

2019 GMC Terrain SLE

Engine: 1.5L turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft, 9-speed automatic | Best for: Maximum used value in a modern Terrain

The 2019 Terrain SLE is the smart-money buy. As an early second-generation model it has depreciated sharply, yet it still has the 1.5-liter turbo four (170 hp / 203 lb-ft), the nine-speed automatic, available all-wheel drive, and modern safety options. Used prices now make it one of the most affordable ways into the newer body, and the SLE trim covers the essentials without paying for leather. For value hunters, it is the standout.

Pros:

• Strong depreciation means low used prices
• Same 203-lb-ft turbo as later years
• Available AWD and safety tech
• Comfortable, quiet ride

Cons:

• Push-button shifter
• SLE lacks leather and upgrades

Verdict: The best value in the lineup — modern Terrain mechanicals for the least money.

5. 2020 GMC Terrain SLT

2020 GMC Terrain SLT

Engine: 1.5L turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft, 9-speed automatic | Best for: Mid-cycle second-gen with more standard gear

The 2020 Terrain SLT added more standard safety equipment than the earliest second-gen cars, including forward-collision alert and lane-keep assist on many trims. The 1.5-liter turbo (170 hp / 203 lb-ft) carries on, and the SLT cabin is comfortable and quiet. With a year of depreciation behind it, the 2020 splits the difference between the cheapest and the newest second-generation Terrains.

Pros:

• More standard safety than early second-gen
• Proven 170-hp turbo
• Comfortable SLT interior
• Reasonable used pricing

Cons:

• Push-button shifter remains
• Pre-refresh styling

Verdict: A nicely equipped mid-cycle Terrain at a sensible price.

6. 2018 GMC Terrain (second-gen debut)

2018 GMC Terrain (second-gen debut)

Engine: 1.5L turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft, 9-speed automatic | Best for: Cheapest entry to the newer body

The 2018 Terrain launched the lighter, more modern second generation with the 1.5-liter turbo four (170 hp / 203 lb-ft) and an available 1.6-liter turbo-diesel on some trims. As the debut year it carries the deepest depreciation of the generation, making it the cheapest path into the newer design. Buyers should verify maintenance history given first-model-year status, but the fundamentals are solid.

Pros:

• Cheapest second-generation Terrain
• Modern turbo engine and platform
• Available diesel on some trims
• More efficient than the old V6 cars

Cons:

• First-model-year build
• Push-button shifter and base tech

Verdict: The budget route into the modern Terrain body.

7. 2017 GMC Terrain Denali (first-gen)

Engine: 3.6L V6, 301 hp / 272 lb-ft (available), 6-speed automatic | Best for: Buyers who want the strong V6 power

The 2017 Terrain Denali is the last first-generation year and the one to choose if you want real power. The available 3.6-liter V6 makes 301 hp and 272 lb-ft, far stronger than the later turbo fours, through a six-speed automatic. The first-gen Terrain is larger-feeling and more truck-like, and a clean Denali offers a quiet, plush cabin. Fuel economy is the trade-off, with the V6 returning around 20 mpg combined.

Pros:

• Available 301-hp V6 power
• Last, most-refined first-gen year
• Quiet, plush Denali cabin
• Strong towing for the class

Cons:

• Thirsty V6 around 20 mpg combined
• Dated platform and tech

Verdict: The first-gen power pick — choose it for the strong V6.

8. 2016 GMC Terrain SLT (first-gen)

2016 GMC Terrain SLT (first-gen)

Engine: 2.4L I4, 182 hp or 3.6L V6, 301 hp, 6-speed automatic | Best for: Affordable, roomy first-gen comfort

The 2016 Terrain SLT offers either the 2.4-liter four (182 hp) for efficiency or the available 3.6-liter V6 (301 hp) for power. The first-gen cabin is roomy with a sliding rear seat, and the SLT adds leather and heated seats. Used prices are low, and the conventional six-speed automatic is simple and durable. It is a comfortable, value-focused first-generation pick.

Pros:

• Choice of efficient four or strong V6
• Roomy cabin with sliding rear seat
• Low used prices
• Simple, durable drivetrain

Cons:

• Older safety and infotainment
• Four-cylinder feels slow with the V6's weight

Verdict: A roomy, affordable first-gen Terrain with an engine choice to suit you.

9. 2015 GMC Terrain SLE (first-gen)

2015 GMC Terrain SLE (first-gen)

Engine: 2.4L I4, 182 hp or 3.6L V6, 301 hp, 6-speed automatic | Best for: Budget first-gen with refreshed styling

The 2015 Terrain benefits from the first-generation refresh that updated the dashboard and added newer infotainment. The 2.4-liter four (182 hp) is standard with the 3.6-liter V6 (301 hp) optional. Used prices are very low, and the cabin remains roomy and comfortable. It is a sensible budget choice for buyers who want a larger-feeling small SUV without spending much.

Pros:

• Refreshed first-gen interior and tech
• Very low used prices
• Roomy, comfortable cabin
• Optional 301-hp V6

Cons:

• Aging safety equipment
• Mediocre fuel economy

Verdict: A roomy, refreshed first-gen Terrain at a bargain price.

10. 2013 GMC Terrain (first-gen)

Engine: 2.4L I4, 182 hp or 3.6L V6, 301 hp, 6-speed automatic | Best for: Lowest-cost roomy small SUV

The 2013 Terrain is among the cheapest options here and still offers the roomy first-generation cabin, the sliding rear seat, and a choice between the 2.4-liter four (182 hp) and the 3.6-liter V6 (301 hp). As an older vehicle it must be bought strictly on condition and service history, but a well-kept example provides a comfortable, spacious ride for very little money.

Pros:

• Among the cheapest Terrains to buy
• Roomy cabin and sliding rear seat
• V6 option for strong power
• Simple six-speed automatic

Cons:

• Oldest tech and safety here
• Buy strictly on condition

Verdict: The bargain roomy Terrain — buy the best-maintained example you can find.

Which Terrain Year Is Right for You?

How to Choose

• Pick the generation first. The second-generation Terrain (2018+) is lighter, more efficient, and more modern; the first generation (2010–2017) is roomier-feeling and offers a strong V6.
• Avoid the push-button shifter if it bothers you. Second-gen Terrains through 2021 used a push-button transmission; the 2022 refresh restored a conventional shifter.
• Match the engine to your needs. First-gen buyers wanting power should seek the 3.6-liter V6 (301 hp); second-gen cars use the efficient 1.5-liter turbo (170 hp / 203 lb-ft).
• Seek standard safety on newer years. Automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist became more common from 2020 onward.
• Confirm AWD if you need it. All-wheel drive is optional across the range — verify a used example has it.
• Buy on maintenance records. With turbo engines on second-gen cars, oil-service history matters.

What matters less than the brochure suggests: trim badge names. A clean SLE will serve as well as a neglected Denali.

FAQ

What is the most reliable GMC Terrain model year? The 2022 Terrain is widely considered the most reliable, as it benefits from the second-generation’s mid-cycle refinements and a proven 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic. Earlier years, especially 2018 and 2020, had more transmission and electrical complaints.

Which GMC Terrain years should I avoid? The 2018 model year is often flagged for transmission issues and push-button shifter problems, while 2010–2012 first-generation models had higher rates of engine and powertrain concerns. Avoid these if you want lower long-term repair risk.

Is the GMC Terrain good for off-roading? The Terrain is primarily a compact crossover for on-road comfort, not serious off-roading. All-wheel drive helps on gravel or light snow, but ground clearance and suspension are not designed for rugged trails.

How long does a GMC Terrain typically last? With proper maintenance, a Terrain can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. The 2019 and later second-generation models tend to have better longevity than early first-generation examples, which often needed major repairs sooner.

What is the best value GMC Terrain to buy used? The 2019 Terrain SLE offers strong value because it has depreciated significantly, yet still provides the updated turbo engine, modern safety features, and a quiet ride. It’s a solid pick under $20,000 in good condition.

Does the GMC Terrain have good fuel economy? The 1.5-liter turbo engine achieves an EPA-estimated 24–28 mpg combined, depending on drivetrain. That’s competitive for its class, though real-world numbers can vary by a few mpg based on driving habits and conditions.

Bottom Line

The Best Overall GMC Terrain is the 2022 Terrain Denali, the most refined of the line with the 1.5-liter turbo (170 hp / 203 lb-ft), available all-wheel drive, the upscale Denali cabin, and the welcome conventional shifter from the refresh. The Best Value is the 2019 Terrain SLE, which delivers the same modern turbo drivetrain and safety tech for far less after heavy depreciation. Choose the second generation for efficiency and modern tech, the first generation for V6 power, and always buy on maintenance records.

Related on PULSE

• [Best GMC Yukon XL Model Years (Ranked)](/knowledge/ca0556)
• [Best GMC Canyon Model Years (Ranked)](/knowledge/ca0555)
• [Best GMC Sierra Model Years (Ranked)](/knowledge/ca0554)
• [Best GMC Acadia Model Years (Ranked)](/knowledge/ca0426)
• [Best GMC Yukon Model Years (Ranked)](/knowledge/ca0391)
• [Best GMC Models in 2027](/knowledge/ca0353)

Sources

• Car and Driver — GMC Terrain reviews and specifications by generation
• Edmunds — used GMC Terrain pricing and model-year reviews
• Kelley Blue Book (KBB) — GMC Terrain values and ownership costs
• Consumer Reports — GMC Terrain reliability ratings by model year
• IIHS — GMC Terrain crash-test ratings
• EPA — fuel economy estimates for the GMC Terrain
• General Motors / GMC — official Terrain specifications and trim details

*GMC Terrain review — GMC Terrain reviews, rating, best GMC Terrain model year, review 2027, and a review of the top GMC Terrain years for used buyers.*

People also search for: best gmc terrain model years (ranked) · top gmc terrain model years (ranked) · top rated gmc terrain model years (ranked) · top ranked gmc terrain model years (ranked) · highest rated gmc terrain model years (ranked) · gmc terrain model years (ranked) reviews