The new Terrain comes with a hands-free power liftgate that opens automatically as you approach with the key fob.GM DESIGN/Courtesy of manufacturer
The compact SUV segment is competitive with dozens of options, many of which offer some sort of electrified powertrain. For example, top sellers like the Hyundai Tucson or Toyota RAV4 are offered in gas, conventional hybrid and plug-in hybrid models and new entrant Toyota Crown Signia SUV is available only as a hybrid.
The GMC Terrain competes in this same space. While it’s all-new for 2025 with refreshed styling, more space and technology, the SUV falls short on its powertrain offerings. For 2025, it’ll only come with one gas engine – a refreshed 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, and standard all-wheel drive. No word, yet, on whether a hybrid will come down the pipeline later.
“GM has said very openly – Mary Barra has said hybrids are going to be a part of our future portfolio in strategic segments,” said Sean Poppitt, executive director for Buick and GMC communications. “We haven’t said which brands or which products yet – I’m not about to get fired by telling you that right now, but stay tuned for GM’s hybrid plans going forward.”
During the virtual unveiling of the Terrain, Poppitt boasted GMC is on a “hot streak” in North America. “We’ve had the best June sales in nearly 20 years [in the U.S.]. We’ve had the best sales quarter in Q2 in nearly five years … In Canada, GMC is going gangbusters. GMC Canada has had record retail sales this year, so far.”
The Terrain will launch with a new trim dubbed “Elevation” later this year – it replaces the previous lower-level SLE and SLT trims. Since GMC’s sub brands, AT4 and Denali, make up nearly 50 per cent of sales, according to Poppitt, both those trims will also join the family in 2025 as 2026 models.
The front seats and sunroof on the new Terrain.GM DESIGN/Courtesy of manufacturer
The Terrain is GMC’s smallest SUV, but it has grown larger compared to the current generation, which translates into more space in the cabin and cargo area. For 2025, the Terrain is built on a new platform, which it shares with its cousin, the also new 2025 Chevrolet Equinox. While it will launch with standard AWD, FWD will be available later.
On the exterior, the third-generation Terrain gets a more rugged look, owing to a wider track, a boxier, upright stance and a front end that carries GMC’s truck styling. From the side profile, it looks strikingly similar to the new Equinox. Besides a new face, bumpers and C-shaped headlamps and tail lamps, a funky two-tone roof option is available – in photos, it’s a cool touch offered in black and grey.
The mid-level off-roading AT4 model will look the part as the most capable Terrain ever built. It’ll have 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, a distinct grille and extras for tackling Mother Nature such as a lifted ride height, a selectable terrain mode with a crawl feature, hill descent control, a metal underbody protection shield, a front skid plate, animated headlamps and tail lamps, off-road tuned suspension and red front tow hooks.
Terrain’s top luxury model, the Denali, will have standard 19-inch wheels, available 20-inch wheels, as well as a distinct grille, rear outboard heated seats and topographical maps of Mt. Denali laser-etched and embossed in the leather and wood accents in the cabin.
The new Terrain comes with a 15-inch centre screen and an 11-inch driver screen.GM DESIGN/Courtesy of manufacturer
More technology and safety features include a 15-inch vertical infotainment screen and an 11-inch horizontal digital driver information screen – both of which are more than twice as large as the current generation. Also new is Google Built-in, complete with Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store. Thankfully, GMC kept wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, too. There’s also an available 5G WiFi hotspot, rain-sensing wipers, wireless charging and a hands-free power liftgate that opens automatically as you approach the rear with the key fob so there’s no more awkward kicking under the bumper to raise the liftgate. Standard features include a remote start function, heated steering wheel, heated driver and front passenger seats as well as 15 safety features from an enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking system to Bicyclist Braking and Side Bicyclist Alert and a new rear-camera mirror – a first on the GMC Terrain.
GMC’s new Terrain will be built at GM’s San Luis Potosi manufacturing plant in Mexico. It’s expected to arrive in Canadian dealerships later this year. Prices will be announced closer to the sale date.
Tech specs
2025 GMC Terrain
- Base price: To be announced
- Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower / torque (lb-ft): 175 / 203
- Transmission/Drive: Eight-speed automatic / all-wheel drive
- Fuel consumption: To be announced
- Alternatives: Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Crown Signia, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-50, Volkswagen Tiguan
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