2025 GMC Terrain Review: A Versatile Compact SUV

2025 GMC Terrain Review: A Versatile Compact SUV

May 11, 2025
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2025 GMC Terrain Review

The 2025 GMC Terrain marks a significant leap forward for GMC’s compact SUV offering, featuring updated technology, improved safety features, and an enhanced design. Positioned as an affordable yet sophisticated option for Canadian drivers, the 2025 Terrain aims to meet the diverse needs of those navigating both urban environments and rugged Canadian landscapes. This review explores the key features, performance specifications, fuel economy, safety features, interior amenities, and pricing for the 2025 GMC Terrain in Canada.


Performance and Engine Options

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The 2025 GMC Terrain comes with a single engine option—a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine provides an ideal balance of power and efficiency, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. It generates approximately 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, making it well-suited for city driving as well as occasional adventures on more rugged terrain.

The 1.5L turbocharged engine is paired with two transmission options, depending on the drivetrain configuration:

  • FWD Models: Equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth acceleration and optimized fuel efficiency.
  • AWD Models: Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing improved traction and control on slippery or uneven surfaces, which is particularly beneficial for Canadian drivers facing challenging road conditions.
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The Terrain is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. While the AWD version provides superior traction in inclement weather (e.g., snow, rain, or gravel roads), the FWD model offers better fuel efficiency for those primarily driving on paved roads.


Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a key factor for any vehicle, especially in Canada, where long driving distances are common. The 2025 GMC Terrain delivers a solid fuel economy that is competitive within its class.

DrivetrainCity (L/100 km)Highway (L/100 km)Combined (L/100 km)
FWD9.37.88.3
AWD11.29.510.0
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The FWD models offer slightly better fuel economy, which is ideal for those who primarily drive in urban areas or on highways. The AWD models, while slightly less efficient, offer the benefit of enhanced control and stability, especially on icy or snow-covered roads—a key consideration for Canadian drivers, particularly in the winter months.


Interior and Comfort Features

The 2025 GMC Terrain boasts a spacious, comfortable, and modern interior. Designed to accommodate five passengers, it offers ample headroom and legroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for both short commutes and long road trips. The interior features premium materials, with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality finishes, making the Terrain feel upscale despite being a compact SUV.

Key Interior Features Include:

  • 15-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment System with Google built-in (integrating Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play Store)
  • 11-inch digital driver information center, which displays vehicle status and navigation details
  • Available panoramic sunroof for an open and airy feel
  • Available leather seating, which adds a premium touch
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing driver and passengers to set their own comfort levels

The cargo space in the Terrain is also commendable, offering 29.8 cubic feet of storage with the rear seats up. When you need more room, folding down the rear seats increases cargo space to 63.3 cubic feet, providing plenty of space for luggage, sports equipment, or groceries. The Terrain also includes several storage compartments within the cabin, ensuring that smaller items can be neatly organized.


Safety and Driver Assistance Features

GMC has prioritized safety in the 2025 Terrain, with an extensive suite of standard and available safety features. These include both active and passive technologies, designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

Standard Safety Features Include:

  • Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
  • Rear Park Assist
  • Teen Driver Technology, which encourages safe driving habits for younger drivers
  • High-definition surround vision, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings through multiple cameras

Additionally, higher trim levels such as the Denali and AT4 offer available features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to warn the driver of potential hazards.


Driving Experience in Canada

The 2025 GMC Terrain is designed to provide a smooth and composed driving experience in various conditions. For Canadian drivers, the AWD option is particularly beneficial, as it helps maintain stability and control on snow and ice-covered roads, which are common during Canadian winters. The Snow Mode further optimizes the Terrain’s traction when driving in wintery conditions.

The vehicle’s steering is light and responsive, making it easy to navigate tight parking spaces and narrow streets. Additionally, the high ground clearance ensures that the Terrain can handle rougher roads and light off-roading with ease. The available towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs (when equipped with the trailer package) also makes the Terrain a viable option for those who require a vehicle capable of towing small trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles.


Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2025 GMC Terrain is available in multiple trims, with a range of pricing to suit various budgets. The base Elevation trim starts at $35,299 CAD for the FWD model, with higher trim levels such as the Denali and AT4 priced higher due to additional premium features.

Trim LevelEstimated Price (CAD)
Elevation (FWD)$35,299
Elevation (AWD)$37,299
Denali (AWD)$43,000
AT4 (AWD)$40,000

Conclusion

The 2025 GMC Terrain represents a well-rounded compact SUV that excels in key areas such as performance, safety, and technology. With its turbocharged engine, comfortable interior, and ample cargo space, the Terrain is suitable for Canadian drivers who need a versatile vehicle for both city commutes and outdoor adventures. The AWD option provides the necessary traction and stability for winter driving, while the fuel efficiency remains competitive in its class, making it an economical choice for long trips across the country.

The advanced safety features, coupled with the latest infotainment technologies, make the 2025 Terrain a great option for those seeking a family-friendly SUV. Whether you are driving through the snow-covered roads of Quebec or navigating urban streets in Toronto, the Terrain offers the performance, comfort, and convenience needed to make every drive enjoyable.

With its attractive pricing and a host of standard features, the 2025 GMC Terrain is well-positioned to compete in Canada’s competitive compact SUV market, offering excellent value for money in its segment.

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