2010 GMC Terrain: First Impressions
Say the three letters "GMC" and chances are folks are going to think of big, big trucks -- you know, Yukons and Sierras. For 2010, General Motor's truck division is looking to change that as it dips its toes...no make that does a cannonball into the compact crossover pond with the 2010 GMC Terrain.
Yes, the Terrain is a platform twin to the redesigned Chevy Equinox, so there's not a heck of a lot different under the skin, but it offers a more rugged presence. Just look at those massive fender flares and in-your-face grille. The Hummer H3 and your kids' Tonka trucks have nothing on this rig for attitude. We recently attended a press preview of the Terrain and our impressions follow the jump.
Top Three Highlights
-- The Terrain is about the same size as a Nissan Rogue and a little longer than a CR-V and RAV4. However, its wheelbase (at 112.5 inches) is considerably longer and combined with its sliding rear seat (as with the Equinox) offers limo-like room for rear passengers. When that seat is slid forward, cargo room is optimized and parents can be much closer to junior chilling in his car seat back there.
-- The 182-hp inline four has direct injection, rare in this segment, and coupled to a six-speed automatic, boasts fuel economy ratings of 22 city, 32 highway and 26 combined.
-- The Terrain's stylish cabin has several details, such as contrast stitching on the seats and front armrests, ambient lighting up front and a standard rearview camera that put it a cut above its more pedestrian rivals.
First Impressions
-- In pictures, the Terrain may look rather overstyled, almost like a caricature. But in the steel it works well -- nicely proportioned and cohesive. I can see it appealing to those moving down from a large, truck-based SUV who want a similarly tough look to their crossover.
-- The 2.4-liter DI four provides adequate performance, especially considering that it's pulling nearly two tons, and it's a smooth runner even when you lay into it. The available 264-hp V6 has a strong, linear pull, though my seat of the pants still puts the RAV4 V6 as the class hot-rod. But I'd expect that as it's got a little more torque and is about 300 pounds lighter.
-- The automatic tranny is programmed for fuel economy, meaning it upshifts into higher gears quickly and is reluctant to drop down a gear or two unless you give it a firm boot. That said, it changes gears virtually seamlessly and with six gears allows relaxed high speed cruising.
-- The interior is comfortable, with supportive and well-bolstered seats front and rear, and notably quiet. And though it looks upscale and build quality is very good, the rear doors didn't get the same high-end treatment as the fronts as they lacked the latter's metallic accents and stitched armrests. Then again, it's usually just gonna be the kiddies back there, so it's a non-issue for the most part.
John DiPietro, Automotive Editor
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- John DiPietro September 30, 2009, 2:25 PM
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- 2010 GMC Terrain
Is the Terrain the replacement for the Envoy?
@altimadude00
No the Acadia was the replacement for the Envoy. Remember they produced the Envoy XL with the third row until the Acadia came out. Also the Terrain is 650 lbs less, 5 in. shorter, 2 in. narrower and 6 in. shorter than the Envoy.
Thanks subaru123!
@altimadude00
Any time. I have no problem helping out fellow car enthusiasts.
I'd have to say that the Terrain is part of a two-pronged replacement for the Envoy. Yes, it's a bit smaller, but combined with the Acadia, I think it covers the whole range. Envoy XL buyers would probably buy the Acadia, and standard Envoy buyers would probably look at the Terrain. It's just a fraction smaller, and it doesn't have the frame and low-range transfer case that the Envoy had but never really needed.
Seems like a nice vehicle, and a good value. The styling is nice overall, but I can't seem to get past those blocky fenders. It just occurred to me that they are much too reminiscent of the HHR. And the Patriot. I accept that I am buying a CUV, not a "Real" truck, so let's tone it down. The wheel wells are huge and make the car tires look inadequate. Maybe it works better in person, but so far based on photos, I much prefer the Equinox.
This and the Equinox are the only two vehicles in this segment that make me think "I could drive one of these."
The fuel economy is stellar.
This does replace the Envoy to some degree since its the cheapest GMC SUV now.