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2021 GMC Terrain

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$25,000

starting MSRP

Key specs

Base trim shown

SUV

Body style

27

Combined MPG

5

Seating capacity

182.3” x 65.4”

Dimensions

Front-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

(24 reviews)

The good:

  • Overall refinement
  • Firm but composed ride
  • Extra versatility with standard fold-flat front passenger seat
  • Easy-to-use multimedia system

The bad:

  • Nine-speed transmission sometimes in too high a gear
  • Front seats may be a little narrow for some
  • Oddly shaped rear-seat backrest
  • Gets expensive with options

4 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2021 GMC Terrain trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best SUVs for 2024

Notable features

  • Five-seat compact SUV
  • 170-hp, turbo four-cylinder engine
  • Nine-speed automatic transmission
  • Front- or all-wheel drive
  • Apple CarPlay, Android Auto standard
  • Automatic emergency braking standard

2021 GMC Terrain review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2021 GMC Terrain?

The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that seats five. It’s powered by a 170-horsepower, turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available. Competitors include the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan

What’s New on the 2021 GMC Terrain?

There are no significant changes this year. 

What Features in the 2021 GMC Terrain Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • Push-button start
  • 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot (data subscription required after trial)
  • 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
  • Forward collision warning 
  • Automatic emergency braking 
  • Lane-keeping assist 
  • Automatic high-beam headlights

Available features include:

  • Hands-free liftgate
  • Remote start
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • 8-inch touchscreen
  • Navigation
  • Blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert
  • Adaptive cruise control

2021 GMC Terrain Vs. 2021 Honda CR-V: How Do They Compare?

The GMC Terrain and Honda CR-V have similar starting prices for base front-wheel-drive models, but the CR-V is more efficient: Its EPA rating is 30 mpg combined, while the Terrain is rated 27 mpg. Both small SUVs have relatively firm suspensions, but the Terrain’s ride quality feels more refined. With the Terrain’s addition of more active-safety features last year, the two SUVs are more similar in this all-important area. The CR-V does have standard adaptive cruise control, however, which is optional on the Terrain. 

Should I Buy the 2021 GMC Terrain?

If you’re looking for a refined, versatile compact SUV with an easy-to-use multimedia system, the Terrain is worth a look. Last year’s addition of more  standard active-safety features enhances its overall value in the very crowded small SUV class. 

Consumer reviews

(24 reviews)
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.7
  • Interior 4.8
  • Performance 4.5
  • Value 4.5
  • Exterior 4.8
  • Reliability 4.7
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Most recent consumer reviews

One of the best looking suv's on the road. Highly

Extremely happy. Ride comfort, controls, comfort, looks, quietness, Quality. They should've kept the 2.0 turbo. But this engine not bad at all. Can't wait to get another.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
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Amazing SUV

I’ve had an amazing experience with terrain Denali. I had it for 3 years and it was one of the best cars ever. Everything worked perfectly no issued at all! Loved it

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
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Grea4 mileage and comfort

Bought it used. The shifter on the dash takes getting used to. But after a month I no longer grab for the shifter arm. Have been happy with comfort. Driving. Gas mileage. Would recommend it.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 4.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 4.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does recommend this car
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See all 24 consumer reviews

Safety

Based on the 2021 GMC Terrain base trim.
Combined side rating front seat
5
Combined side rating rear seat
5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
5
Overall rating
5
Overall side crash rating
5
Risk of rollover
18.5%
Rollover rating
4
Side barrier rating
5
Side barrier rating driver
5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by GMC
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
36 months/36,000 miles
Corrosion
36 months/36,000 miles
Powertrain
60 months/60,000 miles
Roadside assistance
60 months/60,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
5 model years or newer/up to 75,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
12 months/12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years/100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Powertrain
6 years/100,000 miles
Dealer certification required
172-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

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