The History of the GMC Terrain

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Small crossover is big on amenities.

GMC Terrain offers a more chiseled exterior
than its Chevrolet cousin.

Among compact SUV nameplates, the 5-passenger GMC Terrain is one of the newest on the market, introduced for the 2010 model year. Available in front- and all-wheel-drive, this spacious crossover is related to the Chevrolet Equinox and shares its platform, powertrain choices and many other features. Its look and feel is all GMC, with the brand’s trademark grill and trim levels. Two engines choices and standard 6-speed automatic transmissions makes this roomy crossover one worth your consideration.

2.4-liter Inline-four Engine

Standard engine for the GMC Terrain is an ECOTEC 2.4-liter (145 cubic inches) double overhead cam engine that is rated at 182-horsepower at 6,700 rpm and produces 172 foot-pounds of torque at 4,900 rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, enabling the FWD Terrain to achieve 22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway. When equipped with AWD, this Terrain is rated at 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway. This engine consumes regular gasoline or E85 fuel. Its 16-valve double overheard cam engine features spark ignition direct injection, variable valve technology and is of cast aluminum construction. The compression ratio for this engine is 11.2-to-1.

3.0-liter V-6 Engine

Optionally, a 24-valve double overhead cam 3.0-liter (183 cubic inches) engine is available and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The larger engine, rated at 264-horsepower at 6,950 rpm and producing 222 foot-pounds of torque at 5,100 rpm, is of sand-cast aluminum with cast-in bore liners and has cast aluminum cylinder heads. Featuring direct sequential fuel injection with electronic throttle control, the V-6 engine achieves an EPA rating of 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway with the FWD model. With the AWD Terrain, the EPA rates this model 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. Like the base engine, the V-6 runs on regular gasoline or an ethanol blend. The compression ratio for this engine is 11.7-to-1.

Dimensions

If it is room that you seek, the GMC Terrain like its Chevrolet cousin, does not disappoint. This vehicle sits on a 112.5-inch wheelbase and is 185.3 inches long, 72.8 inches wide and 66.3 inches tall. Interior passenger volume is 99.6 cubic feet. Standard cargo space is 31.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanded to 63.9 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. Weighing approximately two tons, this vehicle has a standard towing capacity of 1,500 pounds to a maximum of 3,500 pound when equipped with the V-6 engine and trailer towing package.

Highlights

Like all GMC products, trim levels are different from comparable Chevrolet products. For 2012, the GMC Terrain offers a new audio system, featuring an AM/FM/SiriusXM stereo with CD player and MP3 playback capability. This vehicle offers a 7-inch touch-screen Color Interface Display, USB port, Radio Data System, speed compensated volume, auxiliary input jack and outside temperature display standard. Bluetooth connectivity; power windows, doors and mirrors; a tilt and telescopic steering wheel; a theft deterrent system; OnStar; a rear vision camera; daytime running lamps and fog lamps are among the many standard features offered across the Terrain model line.

References

GMC: 2012 GMC Terrain

Auto Trends Magazine: GM Unveils Next Gen Chevy Equinox

See Also — On the Road With a Subaru XV Crosstrek

Matthew Keegan
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