The GMC Terrain is the latest offering from General Motors, a small sports / utility vehicle cross based on the Chevrolet Equinox. The Terrain went on sale in late summer 2009.
Despite its current struggles, General Motors has several vehicles in the pipeline, new cars, trucks and crossovers that can help the struggling giant survive. That, along with federal funding. One of the newest vehicles is the GMC Terrain, a small, crossover-like vehicle that is also wrapped in the Chevrolet Equinox.
Like its Chevy sibling, the Terrain is expected to get 30 mpg on the highway, 21 cities thanks to the standard direct injection 2.4L four-cylinder engine. Also available is a 3.0L DOHC direct-injected V-6 engine that produces around 264 horsepower (197 kW). Both Terrain engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission which increases efficiency.
“GMC is a strong core brand for GM and the Terrain crossover SUV is the latest example of how we are adapting to changing market conditions,” said Docherty. “As we’ve shown for the first time with the Acadia crossover, GMC is committed to offering a vehicle that customers can find, with the personal technology they expect.”
The GMC Terrain will go on sale later this summer, but the pre-production model is showcased at auto shows starting with the New York International Auto Show. Well equipped, Terrain offers the following equipment on all or all versions of front wheel drive:
- Standard rear vision camera
- Programmable power rear liftgate
- Bluetooth hands-free calling capability
- The MultiFlex sliding rear seat enhances passenger comfort or provides optimal cargo space
- Remote vehicle started
- USB audio connectivity; MP3 playback
- A seven-inch touch screen navigation system and a 40 gigabyte hard drive
- DVD-based rear seat entertainment system with two independent screens
- Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
Regarding Terrain’s bold design, John Cafaro Jr., director of exterior design, Global Crossover Vehicles, had this to say: “We wanted to carve the GMC Terrain away from the package and establish its identity as a fresh, strong crossover SUV with a confident and powerful attitude. Everything about Terrain communicates a tailored sense of toughness and passionate craftsmanship. “
Some of the additional design features include a unique three-element grille highlighted by a striking chrome surround and a projector beam headlamps mounted in a large rectangular housing with chrome accents. That look will help Terrain stand out in a sea of smaller sports / utility and crossover vehicles.
Terrain’s main competitions include the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4. The starting price hasn’t been announced yet, but should align with the Equinox’s starting price of around $ 23,000.