While the GMC Terrain is the smallest vehicle in the GMC lineup, that doesn't mean it lacks in comfort, performance, or power. With the rollout of their 2025 edition, GMC is looking to reinforce this point through a wealth of new upgrades and adjustments. If you're interested in getting behind the wheel of this compact SUV, read on. In our 2025 GMC Terrain Review, we'll take a look at the new features, performance, and value of the 2025 iteration to help you make your decision.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 GMC Terrain debuts with a stylish redesign, featuring a two-tone roof and modern LED lighting, enhancing its appeal in the compact SUV segment.
- Equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, the GMC Terrain delivers 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, maintaining a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
- The interior boasts advanced technology, including a 15-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.
- The 2025 GMC Terrain offers versatile trim options, including the sporty Elevation, adventurous AT4, and luxurious Denali, each catering to different preferences and lifestyles.
- With competitive pricing starting at around $31,395, the 2025 GMC Terrain provides a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and performance, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market.
First Look at the 2025 GMC Terrain
The 2025 GMC Terrain looks to be a standout amongst the compact SUV market this coming year.
Now available at Shaw GMC, the 2025 GMC Terrain is ready to make a big splash in the compact SUV market. With its attractive pricing and standout value, this new model is set to capture the interest of a wide range of buyers.
The 2025 GMC Terrain ushers in the next chapter for this popular compact SUV, and it certainly lives up to expectations. While maintaining the familiar size of the previous model, the new Terrain boasts a cohesive design and additional standard features that elevate its appeal. A noteworthy addition to the 2025 lineup is the Denali variant, which brings a touch of luxury to the mix.
Redesigned Exterior
The 2025 GMC Terrain really shines with its revamped exterior. For the first time, GMC is offering a two-tone roof option, giving the Terrain a unique and stylish flair. The inclusion of LED headlamps and taillamps boosts its modern look, ensuring the Terrain is not just eye-catching but also practical. Despite these updates, it maintains its classic SUV vibe with softer lines and an inviting style, accentuated by its signature grille.
As our sales staff notes, this new design doesn't just look good; it's also functional. The 2025 Terrain is built to stand out while providing practical perks like better visibility and a striking presence. Whether you're driving down Macleod Trail or heading out for a weekend getaway to the mountains, the Terrain's exterior is sure to grab attention and leave a lasting impression.
Interior Enhancements
The interior of the 2025 GMC Terrain offers a comfortable ride whether you're using it as a daily driver or as a rugged roadtripper.
The interior of the 2025 GMC Terrain is designed to be both modern and welcoming. It features a unique and intentional design that opens up the space, creating a sense of endless possibilities. One of the standout updates is the new gear shifter, now conveniently located on the steering wheel. This change not only frees up space in the center console but also adds a sleek, contemporary touch to the vehicle's interior.
The cabin is crafted to be both stylish and practical, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride. With options like a panoramic sunroof, passengers can soak in expansive views, enhancing the overall feeling of openness and luxury inside the Terrain.
Performance and Engine Options
Under the hood, the 2025 GMC Terrain continues to impress with its performance and engine options. This SUV is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, making it more than capable for city drives and highway trips. Even with some tweaks in transmission options, the Terrain keeps its fuel economy steady, ensuring you get great performance without losing out on efficiency.
Whether you're after power, fuel efficiency, or a bit of both, the 2025 Terrain has options that fit the bill. With its turbocharged engine and different transmission choices, you can find the ideal setup that matches your driving style. Let's dive into these options a bit more.
Turbocharged Power
The GMC's turbocharged engine offers immense power and good fuel efficiency, allowing it to adapt to daily driving or long road trips with ease.
The 2025 GMC Terrain packs a punch with its turbocharged engine, delivering solid power and torque. With 203 lb-ft of torque, this engine ensures the Terrain can effortlessly handle various driving scenarios. The city fuel economy for the all-wheel-drive model is a practical 24 mpg, making it a smart choice for everyday use.
Its driver-selectable all-wheel-drive system, which defaults to front-wheel drive, boosts fuel efficiency. This setup lets drivers switch to all-wheel drive when needed, ensuring better traction and control in tricky conditions.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 2025 GMC Terrain comes with two transmission choices: a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) for those preferring front-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic for the all-wheel-drive enthusiasts. This flexibility allows buyers to pick the setup that best matches their driving style and needs. With 184 lb-ft of torque on the front-wheel-drive models, you can expect a smooth and responsive ride.
For the all-wheel-drive versions, the eight-speed automatic transmission ensures power is delivered seamlessly and efficiently, enhancing the Terrain's overall driving performance. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or tackling off-road adventures, the 2025 GMC Terrain's transmission and drivetrain options offer the versatility and capability you’re looking for.
Advanced Technology Features
The 2025 GMC Terrain is loaded with cutting-edge technology features that enhance your driving experience. From its top-notch infotainment system to a range of driver assistance features, this new Terrain is all about meeting the modern driver's needs for connectivity, convenience, and safety. We particularly love the Elevation trim, which shines with its striking design and significant infotainment upgrade.
These tech advancements aren't just about adding cool gadgets; they're about creating a more connected, safer, and enjoyable drive. Let's dive into the infotainment system and driver assistance features that make the 2025 Terrain a standout in its class.
Infotainment System
Building off the design of the 2024 GMC Terrain, the 2025 iteration introduces a host of new technological upgrades.
A key feature of the 2025 GMC Terrain is its infotainment system, which includes a customizable 15-inch screen with an intuitive Google-based interface. This system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Google built-in compatibility, ensuring seamless connectivity for all your devices.
Our sales team has received a lot of positive feedback on the significant upgrade in technology features, particularly the large infotainment screen and its customizable interface. Navigating to a new destination, streaming music, or staying connected is easy and enjoyable with the 2025 Terrain’s infotainment system.
Driver Assistance Features
Safety takes center stage in the 2025 GMC Terrain, equipped with a suite of driver assistance features to keep your drive secure. Standard offerings include adaptive cruise control for hassle-free highway journeys and remote start for extra convenience. The Terrain also steps up its game with new safety additions like blind-zone steering assist, enhanced automatic emergency braking, and reverse automatic braking.
These advanced driver assistance technologies are crafted to give you peace of mind on the road. Whether it's keeping an eye out for cyclists or helping with lane changes, the 2025 Terrain has your back with its comprehensive safety suite.
Trim Levels and Customization
The Denali trim of the 2025 GMC Terrain offers more luxury features to increase your comfort and style on the road.
The 2025 GMC Terrain lineup has something for everyone, offering various trims to suit different tastes and needs. You can choose from the Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, each bringing its own unique features and style. Whether you're into a sporty look, off-road capabilities, or luxurious extras, there's a Terrain trim that fits your vibe.
With a range of customization options, you can personalize your Terrain to match your style and preferences. Let's take a closer look at what each trim has to offer.
Elevation Trim
The Elevation trim of the 2025 GMC Terrain is all about clean, modern vibes with its sleek lines and genuine materials, giving it a sporty and stylish edge. This model comes standard with 17-inch wheels and remote start. You’ll also enjoy perks like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, and a big 15-inch infotainment screen. If you’re after a touch of luxury, the Elevation trim also offers a panoramic sunroof.
For those who want to make an even bolder statement, the Black Edition of the Elevation trim steps it up with gloss black 19-inch wheels, blacked-out trim, headlight bezels, roof rails, ‘Terrain’ badging, and an optional black GMC logo. This sleek look ensures the Elevation trim grabs attention wherever you take it
AT4 and Denali Trims
If you're into adventure, the 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 is your go-to for off-road fun, featuring multiple drive modes, including the unique Terrain Mode. It stands out with 17-inch all-terrain tires, a distinctive grille, full-LED lighting, upgraded suspension, hill descent control, and a raised ride height. The AT4 trim is all about tackling any terrain with confidence and style.
Meanwhile, the Denali trim is all about luxury and comfort, offering heated rear seats, a choice between 19- or 20-inch wheels, adaptive dampers, hill descent control, and extra chrome trim. The Denali trim is perfect for those who want a blend of performance and luxury, focusing on premium features and attention to detail.
Comfort and Convenience
The heated seats and adaptive cruise control features of the GMC Terrain are just a few ways that it brings the comforts of home on the road.
The 2025 GMC Terrain is crafted to prioritize both comfort and convenience, offering a variety of features that enhance the driving experience. Inside you'll find standard perks including adaptive cruise control and remote start, along with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and 60/40-folding rear seats. These amenities ensure a cozy and convenient drive, making the Terrain an excellent choice for everyday use.
For those seeking extra luxury, the Denali trim steps it up with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, adding a touch of class for both you and your passengers.
Cargo Space
With folding seats and a spacious trunk, the GMC Terrain offers enough cargo capacity to fit anything you need for the road.
Cargo space is a key feature of the 2025 GMC Terrain, crafted to cater to a variety of needs. With 60/40-folding rear seats, it offers great flexibility for carrying larger items, making it a breeze to load up for any adventure. The cargo area remains consistent with previous models, ensuring easy access and functionality.
Whether you're running errands or heading out for a weekend getaway, the 2025 Terrain’s well-designed cargo space is ready to meet your practical needs. With its versatile and roomy interior, the Terrain ensures you have all the space you need for your journeys.
Safety and Reliability
When it comes to the 2025 GMC Terrain, safety and reliability are front and center. This SUV is packed with a full suite of active safety technologies as standard, boosting driver confidence and ensuring passenger safety. With features like High Definition Surround Vision, which offers multiple camera views for added security, the Terrain is a standout choice for those who prioritize safety.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recognized the Terrain as a ‘Top Safety Pick,’ reinforcing its status as a safe and dependable vehicle. It performed well in IIHS tests, receiving ‘Good’ ratings in several categories, including small overlap front and moderate overlap front. These ratings provide extra confidence that the 2025 Terrain is designed to keep you and your passengers secure.
These advanced safety features are all about helping you keep your vehicle running reliably for the long run, making the 2025 Terrain a dependable partner for all your travels.
Standard Safety Features
The 2025 GMC Terrain comes loaded with more than 15 standard safety and driver-assistance technologies, ensuring you drive with peace of mind. Every model includes advanced safety features like blind-zone steering assist, enhanced automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assistance. These systems are designed to help prevent accidents and protect everyone inside in case of a collision.
A standout feature is the automatic emergency braking system, which can detect pedestrians and cyclists, adding an extra layer of protection. Plus, the Terrain offers up to 8 available camera views with High Definition Surround Vision, giving you a clear and comprehensive look at your vehicle’s surroundings. Plus, for the first time, the Terrain includes a rear camera mirror, providing an unobstructed view of what's behind you.
Pricing and Value
According to our sales team, the 2025 GMC Terrain makes a strong case for itself in the compact SUV market by offering a great mix of modern design, cutting-edge technology, and solid performance—all at a competitive price. It delivers excellent value, especially when you consider its comprehensive features and attractive pricing. Among its peers, the Terrain stands out for providing a well-rounded package that appeals to buyers looking for quality and affordability.
The starting price for the 2025 GMC Terrain sits at about $40,000, making it an attractive option for those looking for a feature-rich compact SUV at a reasonable price point. This competitive pricing ensures that the Terrain offers great value for money, especially when considering its advanced features and robust performance.
Cost vs. Competitors
The Chevrolet Equinox is another popular choice for customers at Shaw GMC looking for a compact SUV.
When you stack up the 2025 GMC Terrain against its rivals, it's clear it packs a punch. Take the 2025 Honda CR-V, for example – its MSRP ranges from about $37,000 to $43,500, putting it on the pricier side of the spectrum. Then there's the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, which is more budget-friendly, with prices between $37,000 and $42,000.
Even in this competitive field, the GMC Terrain holds its ground by delivering a solid mix of features at a comparable price. Its appeal is boosted by its sleek design, cutting-edge tech, and dependable performance, making it a top pick for those who want great value without breaking the bank.
Real-World Impressions
According to our technicians, the 2025 GMC Terrain offers a comfy ride with adequate handling, making it a great choice for daily commuting or long drives. The driving experience on the whole is a step up from its predecessors, with more focus on improving interior comfort and integrating user-friendly technology.
Test Drive Insights
We've had a lot of opportunities to take the GMC Terrain out for test runs, and we've found that it has amazingly responsive handling, particularly on city streets. The Terrain's handling is stable despite what our techs call a stiffer ride quality, which some customers might find a little less comfortable compared to competitors.
However, the trade-off is more control and confidence in your driving experience, especially if the weather conditions aren't great. Overall, the test drives indicate that while the Terrain has a stiffer ride, its handling capabilities and performance are impressive. The Terrain’s advanced driver assistance features further enhance the driving experience, providing peace of mind and convenience on the road.
Summary
Overall, the 2025 GMC Terrain makes a strong impression as a versatile compact SUV, blending stylish design, cutting-edge technology, solid performance, and attractive pricing. From its fresh exterior look and upgraded interior to its turbocharged engine and extensive safety features, the new Terrain is crafted to cater to modern drivers' needs.
Whether you're after comfort and convenience, high-tech features, or top-notch safety ratings, the 2025 GMC Terrain has got you covered. With its competitive price and excellent value, it's set to be a standout choice in the compact SUV market. If you're shopping for a new ride, visit Shaw GMC today and book a test drive of the 2025 GMC Terrain.
