Why buy a GMC if it’s just a tinseled-up Chevy? It’s an age-old question that the General’s slightly more upscale truck and SUV brand has been struggling with for years now: How best to separate and elevate products like the third-generation, 2025 GMC Terrain above platform siblings like the also new-for-2025 Chevrolet Equinox? Can the market be convinced?
Less Basic Base Version
Gone are the SLE and SLT bottom feeders, swapped for the openly striving moniker “Elevation.” Standard equipment levels are indeed elevated, with remote vehicle starting, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel included on every 2025 Terrain, which better reflects the way most customers were optioning their prior models. Additionally, the Terrain now features an expanded suite of 15 safety features, including:
- Blind-zone steering assist
- Enhanced automatic emergency braking capable of identifying pedestrians, bicyclists, and other hazards at intersections
- Automatic rear braking for cross traffic and other obstacles
- Side bicyclist alert
New to the options list for all Terrain trim levels are features such as:
- Two-tone contrast roof paint scheme
- AutoSense power liftgate
- A camera-based rearview mirror
- Eight-camera HD Surround View
Minimal Powertrain Changes
The Terrain’s 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine continues to provide 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. For the 2025 model, it marries either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for front-wheel drive or an eight-speed automatic for all-wheel drive. This adjustment aligns the Terrain more closely with the Chevrolet Equinox, which previously enjoyed a distinct transmission setup.
Fuel economy should remain steady, despite the vehicle’s size increase. The towing capacity stays around the low end, at 1,500 pounds, with a reduction to 800 pounds for the front-drive/CVT configuration. The driver-selectable all-wheel drive system is still present, requiring a button push to activate when needed, thus optimizing fuel efficiency.
Truckier Style
The designers have focused on channeling a more rugged aesthetic, reminiscent of the GMC Canyon, in redesigning the Terrain’s grille, headlamps, and fascia. The updated interior design features a 15-inch vertical center screen derived from the GMC Acadia, accompanied by a floating volume knob. The vehicle also boasts an 11.0-inch customizable instrument cluster, Google Built-In capabilities, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
As you sit inside, you will notice the soft, stitched trim material enhancing the upscale feel, complemented by bright chrome accents. While the Elevation model provides an upscale impression, the higher-end Denali variant introduces leather and contrasting colors that compete with luxury labels.
AT4, Denali
For those opting for more premium features, the AT4 package offers rugged capabilities, including standard all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, mild suspension lift, red tow hooks, skid plates, hill-descent control, and a terrain-select mode. Conversely, the Denali version enhances comfort with its extensive luxury features, including heated rear seats and ventilated front seats.
When and How Much?
The 2025 Terrain is slated for release in late 2024, starting with the Elevation AWD trim. The front-drive/CVT version is expected to follow in February, along with AT4 and Denali variants debuting as 2026 models. The pricing is anticipated to start around $34,000, with the addition of all-wheel drive available for a $1,600 premium. As the on-sale date approaches, further pricing details and evaluation opportunities will clarify the positioning of the Terrain within the market against competitors.
