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By Steven Cole SmithOrlando Sentinel
October 23, 2009
With the Acadia and the Yukon, GMC has the mid- and full-sized SUV market covered, but the company has lacked something smaller. I hesitate to say "entry level," because the all-new 2010 GMC Terrain SLE starts at just under $25,000, and at the top end, like the SLT test model, can hit $35,000. But for SUV customers who only need five seats, the Terrain is an attractive option. Mechanically, it's a twin to the new Chevrolet Equinox, but GMC designers have done a startlingly good job of making the Terrain part of the GMC family. Bold, angular body lines, the big GMC grille and bigger-than-usual tires and wheels, even on the base model, make the Terrain look like it means business. And it does, sort of, but even the all-wheel-drive model like our test vehicle - front-wheel-drive is standard - can't really be considered a dedicated off-roader. It looks more rugged than it is, and there are some low-hanging body parts, including a lip beneath the front spoiler, that would lose any battle with a big rock or dirt embankment. That said, for mild cow-trailing, the Terrain is certainly up for the task, but there are better choices if you're looking for a street-legal swamp buggy. That optional all-wheel drive is certainly useful in bad weather, and coupled with standard stability control and antilock brakes, the Terrain is as sure-footed as any SUV you can buy. Also standard: Six airbags, and the OnStar communications system. The base engine in the Terrain is a 2.4-liter, 182-horsepower four-cylinder that should be plenty for most. Optional, and included in the test model, is a 3.0-liter, 264-horsepower V-6 that has plenty of power. I like this willing, eager little V-6, but the six-speed automatic transmission, standard with either engine, seemed busy and confused at times. Mechanically, the transmission is fine, but GMC engineers need to do some fine-tuning on shifting points. As far as the Terrain's ride and handling - no complaints there. Options on our top-of-the-line SLT included that V-6 engine ($1,500), 19-inch tires and chrome wheels ($900) and a towing package ($350) that, with the V-6, can handle a 3,500-pound trailer. The SLT package already gets you leather upholstery, a powerful Pioneer sound system and a sunroof. Total price of the test Terrain: $34,740. General Motors has identified GMC as one of its four "core brands," along with Chevrolet, Cadillac and Buick. Beefing up the GMC lineup, and pairing it with dealers who sell Buick, Cadillac or both, is important for GM's future strategy. The Terrain is a solid piece of that strategy, delivering a package on par with any of its competition. Sentinel Automotive Editor Steven Cole Smith can be reached at 407-420-5699, scsmith@orlandosentinel.com or through his blog at Enginehead.com. 2010 GMC Terrain SLT Base price: $31,000. Price as tested: $34,740. EPA rating: 17 miles per gallon city driving, 24 mpg highway. Details: Front-engine, all-wheel-drive SUV with a 3.0-liter, 264-horsepower V-6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission.
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