In the competitive world of compact SUVs, the 2023 GMC Terrain stands out as a refined and versatile option that blends upscale styling with everyday functionality. Whether you’re navigating city streets, heading out on a weekend road trip, or simply running errands, the Terrain offers a comfortable ride, intuitive tech, and a touch of rugged charm.
🚗 Exterior Design: Bold Yet Sophisticated
The 2023 Terrain continues GMC’s tradition of bold design with a sculpted body, signature C-shaped LED lighting, and a commanding grille that gives it a premium presence. Available trims include the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, each offering distinct styling cues to match different lifestyles.
- The AT4 trim adds off-road flair with blacked-out accents, skid plates, and rugged tires.
- The Denali trim leans into luxury with chrome detailing, 19-inch wheels, and a more refined exterior finish.
New color options like Volcanic Red Tintcoat and Sterling Metallic add fresh personality to the Terrain’s palette, making it easy to find a look that suits your taste.
🧠 Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Terrain and you’ll find a cabin that’s both functional and inviting. The layout is clean and modern, with soft-touch materials and thoughtful storage solutions. Seating for five is standard, and the fold-flat front passenger seat allows for longer cargo items—perfect for hauling gear or furniture.
Tech features are a strong point for the 2023 Terrain:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard across all trims.
- An available 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive.
- Higher trims offer a Bose® premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a SkyScape® sunroof for added comfort and ambiance.
The Denali trim elevates the experience with leather-appointed seating, ambient lighting, and a head-up display, making it feel more like a luxury SUV than a compact crossover.
⚙️ Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2023 Terrain is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 175 horsepower and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While not a powerhouse, this setup delivers smooth acceleration and respectable fuel efficiency.
- Front-wheel drive is standard on the SLE and SLT trims.
- All-wheel drive is available—and standard on the AT4 and Denali trims.
Fuel economy is solid, with up to 29 mpg on the highway, making the Terrain a smart choice for commuters and road-trippers alike. The ride is composed and quiet, though some reviewers note that the transmission can feel sluggish at times.
🛡️ Safety and Driver Assistance
GMC equips the Terrain with a robust suite of safety features under the GMC Pro Safety umbrella:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
- Forward collision alert
- Front pedestrian braking
- IntelliBeam® automatic high beams
The Pro Safety Plus package adds blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. These features are standard on higher trims and available on others, giving drivers peace of mind in busy traffic or tight parking situations.
📦 Cargo and Utility
While the Terrain isn’t the largest in its class, it makes smart use of space. You’ll find 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The rear seats split 60/40, and the fold-flat front passenger seat adds flexibility for longer items.
The hands-free programmable power liftgate is a welcome convenience, especially when your hands are full with groceries or gear.
💰 Pricing and Value
The 2023 GMC Terrain starts at around $29,900 for the SLE trim and climbs to $38,600 for the fully loaded Denali AWD. While this places it on the higher end of the compact SUV spectrum, the Terrain justifies its price with premium features, distinctive styling, and a strong brand identity.
Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4, the Terrain offers a more upscale feel, though it may fall short in areas like acceleration and cargo capacity. Still, for buyers who prioritize comfort, tech, and design, the Terrain is a worthy contender.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The 2023 GMC Terrain may not be the most powerful or spacious SUV in its class, but it excels in delivering a refined driving experience, modern technology, and a stylish design. It’s a great fit for urban drivers who want a compact SUV that feels a bit more premium than the norm.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged AT4 or the luxurious Denali, the Terrain offers something for everyone. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying the journey in style.