I spent a week driving the 2026 GMC Terrain for USA TODAY Cars. The Terrain is a small two-row SUV that’s luxury-adjacent.
I tested the Terrain Denali trim, which is its fully loaded configuration with all the bells and whistles. As a small SUV, the Terrain Denali is one of the most affordable Denali models in the American automaker’s portfolio.
Here’s what drivers and car buyers should know about the 2026 GMC Terrain after a week of testing.
What Stands Out About the 2026 GMC Terrain?
The GMC Terrain’s pricing is average for its segment, but its cabin quality is luxurious compared with many mainstream rivals. It comes standard with plenty of modern technology, including a large infotainment screen.
GMC’s Terrain is a classy compact family SUV that’s easy to customize based on which trim you choose. Whether you’re going for an affordable, tech-centric SUV, a more rugged trim or the most refined version, there’s a Terrain option that prioritizes value for the money.
Performance, Handling and Efficiency
The 2026 GMC Terrain uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to produce 175 horsepower. It achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.
I drove the Denali trim, which has an upgraded suspension, so the Terrain’s ride was especially smooth. It has a quiet cabin and doesn’t feel underpowered despite producing less horsepower than key rivals.
The Terrain feels comfortable on the road, and it boasts solid efficiency during highway driving.
Interior, Technology and Comfort
GMC’s compact SUV has a modern, cozy interior. It comes standard with a large 15.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display.
The Terrain has an 11.0-inch digital instrument cluster. It also has a large center console, two front USB ports and a convenient front storage compartment for smartphones.
GMC’s Terrain Denali trim is even more comfortable because of its quality cabin materials.
Will the 2026 GMC Terrain Fit Your Lifestyle?
The Terrain is 181 inches long, 74.5 inches wide without mirrors and 65.8 inches tall. It can comfortably seat five.
GMC’s small SUV has 39.7 inches of rear legroom, which is good for its segment. Its second row is roomy enough for adult-sized passengers. The Terrain has 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row and 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.
Its cargo space is about average for its segment, but some rivals offer more room. If you have a small family or regularly travel with three or four passengers, the Terrain should fit your lifestyle. I took it on a Costco run, and it held large cases of water easily.
Price, Value and Competitors
The 2026 GMC Terrain starts at $30,200. It comes in three trims:
- Terrain Elevation: $30,200
- Terrain AT4: $39,400
- Terrain Denali: $41,900
The Terrain offers solid value for the money. Even the fully loaded Denali trim is relatively affordable compared with average new vehicle prices and comes with a long list of standard features.
Some of the 2026 GMC Terrain’s main rivals include the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson. Both the CR-V and Tucson have more cargo space than the Terrain. The CR-V is the most efficient and practical of the trio. The GMC Terrain beats rivals for standard technology, including its large infotainment screen.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2026 GMC Terrain?
If you’re looking for an affordable small family SUV with a practical, tech-centric interior, the GMC Terrain is a great option. Rivals like the CR-V offer more cargo space and horsepower, but the Terrain is designed for comfort and ride quality.
I recommend the Denali trim because it takes the cabin design up a notch from lower trims. The Terrain Denali feels like a luxury model despite being affordable enough for many drivers shopping within the mainstream compact SUV segment.
GMC’s Terrain Denali proves that American models can be just as classy and modern as Japanese and South Korean rivals without breaking the bank.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: We spent a week driving the 2026 GMC Terrain. Is it a win?
Reporting by Charles Singh, USA TODAY / USA TODAY
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