Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Best GMC Terrain Model Years (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO SyndicateBest GMC Terrain Model Years (Ranked)
Direct Answer
The Best Overall GMC Terrain model year is the 2022 Terrain (Denali trim), the most refined version of the second-generation Terrain after its mid-cycle refresh, pairing the proven 1.5-liter turbo four making 170 hp and 203 lb-ft, a smooth nine-speed automatic, available all-wheel drive, and the upscale Denali cabin with the cleaner, more conventional gear selector that replaced the awkward push-button setup.
The Best Value pick is the 2019 Terrain SLE, an early second-generation example that has depreciated heavily and can be found used for strong money while still offering the same turbo engine, modern safety tech, and a comfortable, quiet ride. This ranking covers the first-generation Terrain (2010–2017) and the second-generation Terrain (2018–present), and ranks the years and trims most worth owning today.
Every pick uses real model-year engine specs, outputs, and pricing context from manufacturer and independent sources.
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
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
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
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
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)
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)
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)
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 best GMC Terrain year to buy? The 2022 Terrain Denali is the most refined, thanks to the refresh that fixed the push-button shifter and updated tech, while the 2019 Terrain SLE is the best value used.
Does the GMC Terrain have transmission problems? The notable Terrain complaint was the unloved push-button transmission controls on second-generation cars through 2021, addressed by the 2022 refresh with a conventional shifter. Mechanical history varies by upkeep, so check service records.
Which Terrain engine is best? First-generation buyers wanting power should choose the 3.6-liter V6 (301 hp); second-generation cars use the efficient 1.5-liter turbo four (170 hp / 203 lb-ft), which suits most drivers and returns around 27 mpg combined.
Is the GMC Terrain a reliable used SUV? Settled years like 2019–2022 generally fare well when maintained, with early second-gen flaws resolved. As with any used turbo vehicle, buy on documented maintenance over model year alone.
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.
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.*