2023 GMC Terrain

The GMC Terrain lives in the highly competitive compact SUV segment and is currently in its second generation. This soft-roader enjoyed a refresh in 2022 and is back this year with minor updates, the most notable being a slight increase in power. The turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder now produces five more horsepower for a total of 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque, which, sadly, doesn't make much of a difference where it really counts. We've been critical of GMC's smallest SUV in the past due to its comparatively high pricing and lackluster engine, so can the 2023 model change that impression? With competitors such as the Ford Bronco Sport and the new Mazda CX-50 to contend with, it has a lot of work to do, and we're not sure it's up to the task.

The 2023 GMC Terrain's price ranges from a low of $29,900 for the base model in FWD guise to $38,600 for the AWD Denali. SLT models cost $33,900 in FWD configuration, and adding AWD to either of the bottom trims adds $1,600 to the total price. The AT4 goes for $36,000, and a fully-loaded Denali can get dangerously close to $45k with options. These prices exclude tax, registration, and a destination fee of $1,395.

Most cars in this segment of the market act like SUVs but actually feel more like sedans when it comes to their handling characteristics. That's why it comes as such a surprise that the GMC Terrain feels more like a truck than a regular car. One can blame its higher-than-average ride height for this, but the timid engine's lack of throttle response and light steering feel over dirt contributes to its utilitarian feel. The Terrain isn't terrible on the road, but it simply cannot match the refined feeling of the Ford Bronco Sport or Chevrolet Equinox. Those from a truck background could learn to love this driving experience, but simply put, it isn't refined.

The GMC Terrain is stuck between a rock and a hard place. This compact SUV sits in a segment of the SUV market that is filled with excellent options, and unfortunately, the Terrain isn't great at anything. Let's start with the driving experience; the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is still underpowered and not responsive enough, despite the slight power bump, and the transmission isn't the smoothest either. Tie that in with a truck-like driving experience, and you're not off to a good start. Cars like the all-new Mazda CX-50 offer a better ride, and the Subaru Crosstrek will perform better off-road. Inside, the Terrain provides an intuitive infotainment system and good space but is once again trumped by its competitors in terms of overall refinement. Then there's the price. Higher up in the trim line, the Terrain gets too expensive, and competitors like the FordBronco Sport undercut the Terrain by a significant margin. If you're in this corner of the market, shop around before making a final decision.

Considering the starting price of the GMC Terrain, we wouldn't venture too far up the trim line; in fact, we'd stick close to the bottom. If we had the cash, we'd go for the SLT in AWD guise. This trim features 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, a power liftgate, and heated power side mirrors on the exterior side. Inside, the SLT gets a 110-volt power outlet, an eight-inch infotainment display, front power seats, ambient interior lighting, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The AWD SLT is priced at $35,500, excluding tax, registration, and destination fees.