New for 2016

For 2016, the GMC Terrain gets revised styling and LED Daytime Running Lights on higher level trims. Additional safety features such as Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are now optional on SLE and SLT models (previously only available on the Denali), as are new wheel designs and interior color options. 

Take Charge 

As General Motor's truck brand for decades, you can rest assured GMC knows what it's doing when it comes to trucks and SUVs. And nowhere is that more apparent than with the 2016 GMC Terrain. The Terrain charges into the 2016 model year boasting a robust list of tech options and in-demand features, as well as revitalized styling on SLE-2 models and above. 

Powertrains and Performance

The 2016 GMC Terrain is offered with two powertrains that give this mid-sized family hauler plenty of grunt, and decent fuel economy as well.

The standard engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which produces 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. It’s offered with a six-speed automatic transmission only, and a choice of either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

A four-cylinder engine may not seem like enough to pull a fairly large crossover SUV, but this one gets the job done while returning respectable fuel economy. The EPA rates it at 26 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.*

For those looking for more power, The Terrain can be had with a 3.6-liter V6. This particular mill produces 301 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque and, like the four-cylinder, is paired with a six-speed automatic and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

EPA-rated fuel economy for the V6 is 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.*

Features and Trims

The 2016 GMC Terrain is only available as a four-door, five-passenger crossover SUV. It comes in SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT, and Denali trim levels. Pricing starts at $28,550.**

GMC is an upscale brand, meaning even the base Terrain SLE-1 comes with a long list of standard features, including a rearview camera, 17-inch aluminum wheels, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and tilt/telescoping steering column.

Building on the standard features of the SLE-1 is the SLE-2. On top of the applicable standard features from the base model, it includes a power-adjustable driver’s seat, Pioneer® premium eight-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, roof rails, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Next up is the SLT, which adds 18-inch wheels, chrome exterior accents, remote engine start, ambient lighting, heated front seats, and perforated leather upholstery.

For an even more upscale experience we recommend the top-of-the-line Denali model. Like other GMC models that share this name, it comes with upgraded exterior styling features headlined by the Denali-signature chrome grille, and virtually every item offers standard or optionally in the other trim levels.

Notable options primarily fall into the realm of tech. The Terrain is available with GMC’s IntelliLink infotainment system, including navigation and a color touch screen. All Terrain models also come standard with OnStar® 4G LTE capability and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot that can support up to seven devices, but both OnStar and the Wi-Fi service require separate subscriptions.

Design 

If you find yourself wishing SUVs looked tougher these days, then we can't recommend the 2016 GMC Terrain enough. The Terrain is bound to gain admirers wherever it roams thanks to its athletic design and imposing frame. Of particular note are the large wheel openings and enormous chrome grille capped with big GMC letters. 

On the inside, the Terrain features standard ambient lighting and GMC’s MutiFlex sliding rear seat, which can be moved fore or aft eight inches to increase legroom. The 60/60 split-folding setback makes carrying large items easy as well. The cargo area offers 31.6 cubic feet of space. 

Safety

Standard safety features on the 2016 GMC Terrain include anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, and six airbags. Forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert features are also available as options.

Bottom Line

From its beefcake body to its plush interior, the 2016 GMC Terrain was built to impress and instill drivers with confidence, while pampering occupants with all the luxury and refinement we've all come to expect from the GMC brand. 

For an opportunity to find out just how capable the 2016 GMC Terrain truly is, stop by or contact us at 3Birds Template to schedule a test drive.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment.

Image: GMC