GMC Terrain research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Terrain is GMC's compact SUV. 2011-2017 models are boxy and roomy, with a 2.4L four or a strong V6; the 2018-2024 redesign switched to turbo fours and a 9-speed and added more tech, with the AT4 and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto from 2022. The 2025-on Terrain has bold, boxy styling and a 175-hp turbo. Early 2.4L engines should be checked for oil consumption.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. The Terrain is in production; verify 2026 trims, drivetrains and specifications against current GMC data and the window sticker.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Upscale styling and denali trim
- Comfortable ride
- Available AWD
- Strong V6 option 2011 2017
- Wireless phone integration 2022 and later
- Quiet cabin for the class
Things to know before you buy
- 2.4 liter oil consumption check
- First year 2018 recalls
- Modest power from 1.5 liter turbo
- Transmission differs by drivetrain 2025 and later
- Diesel rare and needs emissions checks
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2010–2017)
The first Terrain (2010-2017; 2011-2017 here) shares its platform with the Equinox and uses a 182-hp 2.4L four or a V6 (264-hp 3.0L through 2012, 301-hp 3.6L from 2013) with a 6-speed automatic. Denali arrived for 2013 and a facelift with LED daytime running lights for 2016.
Buyer takeaway: A 3.6L V6 (2013-2017) suits buyers who want power; a 2.4L should come with good oil records and a clean oil-consumption history.
Generation 2 (2018–2024)
The 2018-2024 Terrain is lighter and sleeker, with turbo engines (1.5L, 2.0L through 2020, 1.6L diesel 2018-2019), a 9-speed automatic and a push-button shifter. The 2022 refresh added new styling, the AT4 and standard wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.
Buyer takeaway: Pick a 2018-2020 2.0L for power or a 2022-2024 for the latest tech; confirm the 2018 recalls are complete.
Generation 3 (2025–present)
The 2025-on Terrain has boxier styling, a 175-hp 1.5L turbo, a CVT on FWD models and an 8-speed automatic on AWD models, and Elevation, AT4 and Denali trims.
Buyer takeaway: Good for buyers who want the newest design and tech; AWD models get the conventional 8-speed automatic.
GMC Terrain by model year
2026 GMC Terrain
The 2026 Terrain continues the third generation with the 175-hp 1.5L turbo, a CVT on front-drive models or an 8-speed automatic with AWD, and Elevation, AT4 and Denali trims. Verify 2026 features, drivetrain and pricing against current GMC data and the window sticker before buying.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 175 hp
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable FWD; 8 speed automatic AWD
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Continues the third generation
- Verify trim and feature changes against current gmc data
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; CVT or 8 speed automatic operation; Large touchscreen and software updates; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2025 GMC Terrain
The redesigned 2025 Terrain has bolder, boxier styling and a 175-hp 1.5L turbo. Front-drive models use a CVT (about 26/28 mpg) and all-wheel-drive models an 8-speed automatic. Trims are Elevation, AT4 and Denali (AWD only), with a large touchscreen. Confirm drivetrain and transmission by VIN, since they differ.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 175 hp
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable FWD; 8 speed automatic AWD
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new third generation
- Boxier truck like styling
- CVT on FWD and 8 speed automatic on AWD
- Elevation at4 and denali trims
- Large touchscreen infotainment
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; CVT or 8 speed automatic operation; Large touchscreen and software updates; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2024 GMC Terrain
The 2024 Terrain is the last of the second generation, with the updated 1.5L turbo (about 175 hp) and 9-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. The redesigned 2025 is boxier with a bigger screen, so a 2024 can be a good value if priced accordingly.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 about 175 hp updated version
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Last year of the second generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2023 GMC Terrain
The 2023 Terrain keeps the refreshed 2022 look and features with an updated version of the 1.5L turbo (about 175 hp; verify by VIN) and a 9-speed automatic, FWD or AWD. Trims include SLE, SLT, AT4 and Denali. Compare equipment carefully, since features vary widely by trim.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 about 175 hp updated version
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Updated version of the 1.5 liter turbo
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2022 GMC Terrain
The 2022 refresh brought new front styling with LED signature lighting, a new off-road-flavored AT4 trim, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 170-hp 1.5L turbo and 9-speed automatic carry over with FWD or AWD. A 2022-2024 is the most up-to-date second-generation Terrain.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed front styling with LED signature lighting
- New at4 trim
- Wireless apple carplay and android auto standard
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2021 GMC Terrain
For 2021 the 2.0L turbo was dropped, so every Terrain uses the 170-hp 1.5L turbo with a 9-speed automatic, rated about 25/30 mpg city/highway with FWD. Trims still run from SL to Denali. It is the last year before the 2022 refresh, which added the AT4 and wireless phone integration.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- 1.5 liter turbo becomes the only engine
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2020 GMC Terrain
For 2020 the diesel was gone, leaving the 170-hp, 203 lb-ft 1.5L turbo and the 252-hp, 260 lb-ft 2.0L turbo, both with a 9-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. It is the last year of the 2.0L, so a 2020 SLT or Denali 2.0T is the pick for buyers who want more power.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 252 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Diesel dropped
- Last year of the 2.0 liter turbo
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission accumulator recall completion; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2019 GMC Terrain
The 2019 Terrain continues with the 170-hp 1.5L turbo, 252-hp 2.0L turbo and 9-speed automatic. It is the last year of the 1.6L turbodiesel, which offers strong highway mileage but has diesel-specific emissions parts. Some 2018-2019 models had a rear brake caliper recall, so confirm the VIN.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 252 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbodiesel I4 137 hp 240 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic; Diesel transmission verify by VIN
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Last year of the diesel
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Diesel DEF and particulate filter if diesel; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2018 GMC Terrain
The redesigned 2018 Terrain is sleeker and lighter, with turbo engines and a 9-speed automatic: a 170-hp 1.5L, a 252-hp 2.0L, or a 137-hp, 240 lb-ft 1.6L diesel. It uses a push-button gear selector. Several 2018 recalls (air bag module, fuel pump, rear calipers, driveshaft, transmission bolts) apply to specific VINs, so check them all.
- Engines: 1.5 liter turbo I4 170 hp 203 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 252 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbodiesel I4 137 hp 240 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic; Diesel transmission verify by VIN
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new lighter second generation
- Turbocharged 1.5 liter and 2.0 liter engines
- 1.6 liter turbodiesel option
- Push button gear selector
- Several first year recalls
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; First year recall completion; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Push button shifter operation; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2017 GMC Terrain
The 2017 Terrain is the last of the first generation and the last with a V6, keeping the 182-hp 2.4L four or 301-hp 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic. The 2018 redesign is lighter and more efficient but uses turbo fours only, so a 2017 V6 appeals to buyers who want effortless power.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Last year of the first generation
- Last terrain with a V6
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2016 GMC Terrain
The 2016 Terrain received a facelift with new front and rear fascias and LED daytime running lights. Powertrains carry over: the 182-hp 2.4L four or 301-hp 3.6L V6, 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. A 2016-2017 is the most modern version of the first-generation Terrain.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New front and rear fascias
- LED daytime running lights
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2015 GMC Terrain
The 2015 Terrain carries over the 2.4L four (182 hp) and 3.6L V6 (301 hp) with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. It is the last year before the 2016 facelift, so expect a lower price than a 2016 with similar miles. Inspect for oil consumption and timing-chain wear.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2014
- Last year before the 2016 facelift
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2014 GMC Terrain
The 2014 Terrain continues with the 182-hp 2.4L four or 301-hp 3.6L V6, a 6-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and SLE, SLT and Denali trims. The V6 offers strong passing power and more towing ability; the four is cheaper to run. Review oil-change records and listen for timing-chain noise.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2013
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2013 GMC Terrain
For 2013 a 301-hp, 272 lb-ft 3.6L V6 replaced the 3.0L, making the V6 Terrain notably quicker, and the upscale Denali trim arrived. The 182-hp 2.4L four remains the volume engine. Both use a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. Check oil consumption on the 2.4L and confirm the engine by VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 301 hp 272 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New 301 hp 3.6 liter V6 replaces the 3.0 liter
- New denali trim
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2012 GMC Terrain
The 2012 Terrain carries over the 182-hp 2.4L four and 264-hp 3.0L V6, each with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. It is the last year of the 3.0L V6. The four-cylinder is the more economical choice, but oil consumption and timing chain health should be checked on any early 2.4L.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.0 liter V6 264 hp 222 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Last year of the 3.0 liter V6
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
2011 GMC Terrain
The 2011 Terrain is GMC's boxy compact crossover, closely related to the Chevrolet Equinox. Most have a 182-hp, 172 lb-ft 2.4L four; a 264-hp 3.0L V6 was optional. Both use a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. Some early 2.4L engines developed excess oil consumption that GM covered under a special program, so check oil level and records.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 182 hp 172 lb ft; 3.0 liter V6 264 hp 222 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door compact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Sle and slt trims
- Sliding rear seat
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and drivetrain by VIN; Oil consumption and oil level on 2.4 liter; Timing chain noise and codes; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Coolant leaks; AWD system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- 2.4L Oil Consumption and Timing Chain (First Generation) (2011–2017)
The first-generation 2.4L four is widely reported to burn oil, especially earlier engines, due to piston-ring issues. GM issued a special coverage program for excess oil consumption on certain earlier 2.4L Terrains and Equinoxes (commonly cited as 2010-2013; confirm by VIN). Low oil can also accelerate timing-chain wear.
What to do: Check the oil level and records; ask a GMC dealer whether the VIN had the oil-consumption repair. - 2018-2020 VIN-Specific Recalls (2018–2020)
Several recalls apply to specific early second-generation Terrains: 18V340 (2018 air bag control module may not power down correctly), 18V358 (2018 high-pressure fuel pump may detach), 18V576 (2018-2019 rear caliper coating), 17V516 (2018 front intermediate driveshaft), and 20V668 (2018-2020 transmission accumulator bolts).
What to do: Run the VIN at NHTSA or GMC and confirm every applicable recall is complete. - Turbo Engine Maintenance (Second and Third Generation) (2018–2026)
Every Terrain since 2018 uses a small turbocharged engine. Turbo engines depend on on-time oil changes with the correct oil; owners have reported coolant loss and turbo-related codes on some 1.5L engines.
What to do: Review oil-change records and check fluid levels before buying. - 1.6L Turbodiesel Emissions System (2018-2019) (2018–2019)
The rare 2018-2019 Terrain diesel uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and a particulate filter. Short-trip driving can clog the filter, and DEF system faults can limit power.
What to do: On a diesel, scan for emissions codes and confirm DEF and filter service history. - 9-Speed Automatic and Push-Button Shifter Check (2018–2024)
Some 2018-2024 owners report rough or delayed shifts from the 9-speed automatic and occasional shifter or park-engagement messages with the push-button selector. Software updates address some cases.
What to do: Drive in traffic and test the shifter; ask whether transmission updates were applied. - First-Generation V6 and AWD Inspection (2011–2017)
First-generation V6 Terrains (3.0L for 2011-2012, 3.6L for 2013-2017) can develop timing-chain wear at high mileage, and AWD models need matching tires and healthy driveline fluids.
What to do: On V6 or AWD models, listen at cold start and test in tight turns. - Terrain Generation, Engine and Transmission Disambiguation (2011–2026)
The Terrain has three generations in this range: 2011-2017 (2.4L four, 3.0L V6 through 2012, 3.6L V6 from 2013, 6-speed), 2018-2024 (1.5L turbo, 2.0L turbo through 2020, 1.6L diesel 2018-2019, 9-speed), and 2025-on (1.5L turbo with a CVT on FWD or 8-speed with AWD). The Chevrolet Equinox is its close relative.
What to do: Confirm the generation, engine, transmission and drivetrain before comparing prices.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies. For first-generation 2.4L models, also ask a GMC dealer about oil-consumption special coverage.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Buick Envision
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Ford Escape
- Mazda CX-5
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia Sportage
- Nissan Rogue
- Volkswagen Tiguan
Questions this guide answers
- Which Terrain generation is this?
- What engine does this Terrain have?
- Does this Terrain burn oil?
- Which Terrains have a V6?
- What changed in the 2018, 2022 and 2025 Terrain?
- Does this 2025 Terrain have a CVT or an 8-speed automatic?
- What is the Terrain AT4?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What fuel economy does the Terrain get?
- What similar SUVs should I consider?