The 2026 GMC Terrain enters its third generation with nice aesthetics and a good driving experience. Fifteen years since it launched as the smaller sibling to the Acadia, the compact SUV has continued to thrive as the sweet spot between mainstream SUVs and luxury offerings.
For its next generation, the GMC Terrain introduces two additional trims – AT4 and Denali – for drivers who want their daily SUV with a touch of luxury and a little more flair. Here’s a rundown of the 2026 GMC Terrain.
Rugged Styling With A Modern Touch
Since GM has a long history of making trucks, it’s no surprise that the Terrain looks like it hit the gym with its truck cousins. It looks sharper now and grabs attention with an upright stance and an aggressive silhouette, even though each trim has slight variations. For example, an upright grille is standard on the Elevation trim, while the Denali gets a unique grille with Galvano Silver accents.
All versions of the 2026 Terrain have noticeably high ground clearance, reaching 7.7 inches on the Denali. Plus, an underbody shield and 17- to 20-inch all-terrain tires are available to help the SUV navigate all surfaces. Each trim is marked by a unique front fascia, but a two-tone roof and an autosense power liftgate are standard.
1.5L Turbo Engine Not Enough?
The GMC Terrain pumps out 175hp from a 1.5L Turbo engine. It shares the VSS-S platform with the Chevy Equinox, but depending on the chosen drivetrain, drivers can get 184 lb-ft (FWD) or 203 lb-ft of torque (AWD). While the FWD setup uses the CVT system, the AWD version provides a more comported ride via an 8-speed auto transmission system with Hill Descent control. Regardless of trim and powertrain, the 2026 GMC Terrain does 0 – 60 mph in an average of 8.6 seconds and has a top speed of 125mph. With numbers like that, the Terrain isn’t competing with top compact SUVs for performance. Instead, it settles with being a daily cruiser, and that could be a bother for buyers who want a little more road personality.
A 2.0-liter engine option would serve the Terrain better, at least as an option for the AT4 and Denali trims. On the bright side, however, the body leans are minimal as it is. There could be a little hesitation when it upshifts, but it’s comfortable and responsive enough around town.
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A Cabin Made For Comfort
Credit to GMC, the interior of the next-gen Terrain has its own personality, much different from what we’ve seen on other models in the lineup. It uses a 15-inch tablet-style display, which connects to a practical center console with two large cupholders and a wireless charging pad. Physical controls are minimal. It has a few dedicated knobs for climate and volume, and a few wheel-mounted buttons, just enough for a modern small SUV.
Shoppers can choose between light cream and dark themes, and no matter the configuration, the chrome accents and wood inserts add an extra touch of class. Heated front seats are standard, while ventilated seats are reserved for the Denali trim for extra comfort. Plus, they have multiple-way adjustments to help drivers find a comfortable driving position, and an available panoramic sunroof completes the package. The boxy shape of the Terrain pays off with sufficient headroom (up to 40.5 inches) and legroom (43.9 inches) for front occupants. Rear seats fold 60/40 to provide additional cargo space, which can go from 29.8 cubic ft to 64.5 cubic ft in one swift move. And there’s ample storage space on the door and center console for small items.
A Modern Tech Suite
The center display on the 2026 GMC Terrain integrates with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for wireless control and media access. An 11-inch digital gauge complements it, and both screens can be customized for easier navigation. Plus, there’s a Google Built-in package that provides additional support like Google Assistance and Google Maps.
Up to 8 cameras provide a digital view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Other tech highlights are the Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking and Blind Zone Steering Assist for additional safety.
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Three Customizable Trims: The Choice Is Yours
Each trim on the 2026 Terrain comes with its unique personality. With a starting MSRP of $30,100, the base Elevation trim is affordable and reliable for everyday tasks. AT4 joins the lineup as the off-road-focused trim. It costs almost $10k extra, but totally worth it considering the higher ride height, steel underbody covering, and red front recovery hooks.
The top-end Denali trim is positioned as the luxury trim for drivers who want more than basic interiors and tech. Where the lower trims feel clunky, the Denali’s refined suspension improves the ride experience. It is also the most upscale of the three. Optional 20-inch wheels, animated LED headlamps and taillights, and ventilated seats all come with the $41,800 package. Besides the standard trims, the automaker throws in two special options – Black Edition and Elevation Premium Edition. Budget-conscious buyers may stick to the base trim level, but that would mean missing out on the AT4’s better road attitude. Above all, it is advisable to go for the AT4’s AWD version since it costs only $2k extra.
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The 2026 GMC Terrain in the Small SUV Market
In a segment as crowded as the compact SUV market, the GMC Terrain competes with strong names like the Toyota RAV-4, Subaru Forester, and Honda HR-V. Although each rival has its strengths, the GMC Terrain continues to impress with competitive pricing. But that’s not to say its strongest appeal is in the price tag. It offers an exciting lineup of trims designed to appeal to different categories of compact SUV buyers.
While the absence of a 2.0L motor and a sport mode may disappoint some drivers, the SUV balances things out with confident handling and drivability, especially on higher trims.
