2017 GMC Terrain review
GMC Terrain highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Spacious backseat that slides and reclines for added comfort
- Available V6 engine makes this crossover faster than even modern competitors
- Quiet and comfortable interior with a smooth ride
- Some advanced driver aids available
Cons
- Four-cylinder engine feels sluggish
- Less cargo space than many rivals
- Touchscreen is hard to reach
Mileage (EPA estimate)
16 city, 23 highway, 18 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Roomy passenger space and V6 power key 2017 GMC Terrain strengths
The final model year for the first generation of GMC’s compact SUV, the 2017 GMC Terrain still has noteworthy strengths, if you’re willing to look past some understandably older features.
The available 3.6-liter V6 engine boasts enough horsepower to leave modern rivals in the dust, and is a much better choice than the standard lackluster four-cylinder. The Terrain’s rear seat is also top-notch, with a sliding mechanism that moves the seat bottom nearly eight inches forward or backward to optimize either cargo or legroom. While the interior is dated by the dozens of buttons on the dash, it still looks good, and the touchscreen-averse might prefer the plentiful buttons.
As an older vehicle, modern tech like smartphone integration and advanced driver aids aren’t widely available. But upper trims (SLE-2 and above) add Bluetooth® audio streaming to the standard USB audio inputs, helping the Terrain feel a bit more modern despite its age. Additionally, the Terrain was available with blind spot warning and cross-traffic alert, forward collision alert and lane departure warning, which we recommend holding out for.
All GMC Terrain years
What is new for the 2017 GMC Terrain?
- Running Boards features are now available as options on select trims.
5 reasons to buy the 2017 GMC Terrain
What We Like
V6 Power: Even by today’s yardstick, the GMC Terrain when equipped with the V6 engine is a (relative) rocket ship, handily outpacing modern rivals in acceleration. When properly equipped it can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is pretty good for this class of vehicle.
Rear Seat Flexibility: The sliding rear seat on the Terrain is definitely a strength. With the seat in its rearmost position, it actually has more legroom than the more modern Terrain (2018-present). Additionally, cargo space is also a little bit better than the newer model.
Interior Comfort: GMC is positioned as an upscale brand, and the Terrain delivers with comfortable seats, a quiet interior, and a notably smooth ride over rough surfaces. That goes double for the cushy, luxury-level Denali trim.
What Needs Improvement
Interior Controls: Even when it was new, the 2017 Terrain was criticized for its confusing climate controls and infotainment interface compared to contemporary vehicles. A combination of a touchscreen that’s a stretch to reach and lots of buttons make it cumbersome to use. At least the main controls are duplicated on the steering wheel, but other vehicles from this time period are simply more intuitive to use.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.2 out of 5
25 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 14 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 6 |
| 3 Stars | 3 |
| 2 Stars | 0 |
| 1 Star | 2 |
RepairPal gave the GMC Terrain an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks GMC Terrain 11th out of 29 among Compact SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the GMC TerrainGMC Terrain features and specs
Denali 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Pioneer Sound System
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Remote Start
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Automatic Transmission
- Flex Fuel Vehicle
- Full Roof Rack
- Navigation System
- Running Boards
- Sunroof(s)
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.4L
Horsepower
182
Torque (ft-lbs)
172
Engine type
Gas
Fuel capacity
18.8
Wheelbase
112.5"
Overall length
185.5"
Width
72.8"
Height
66.3"
Leg room
F 41.2"/R 39.9"
Head room
F 39.8"/R 39.2"
Front tires
P235/55R18
Rear tires
P235/55R18
Seating capacity
5
Max towing capacity
150/1500 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2017 GMC Terrain FAQ
The 2017 GMC Terrain is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- 21 MPG City and 31 MPG Highway
- 21 MPG City and 31 MPG Highway
- 21 MPG City and 31 MPG Highway
- 21 MPG City and 31 MPG Highway
The GMC Terrain received a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the GMC Terrain as 10 out of 29 among Compact SUV
The 2017 GMC Terrain has received an average 4.2 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2017 GMC Terrain, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2017 GMC Terrain Reviews.
The 2017 GMC Terrain has a maximum towing capacity of 1500 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2017 GMC Terrain:
- Running Boards
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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