The all-new third-generation GMC Terrain crossover SUV features bolder, more truck-like styling, a larger cabin, and new driver-assistance and safety technology for the 2025 model year. The compact, two-row 2025 GMC Terrain joins the midsize Acadia and full-size Yukon in GMC’s three-SUV lineup.
When it first arrives later in 2024, the 2025 GMC Terrain will come exclusively in Elevation trim with all-wheel drive (AWD). GMC plans to roll out off-road-oriented AT4 and upscale Denali trims for the 2026 model year to round out the new Terrain lineup; the entry-level SLE and SLT trims are gone. All third-gen Terrains will have a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an automatic transmission.
GMC beefed up the Terrain’s exterior styling for 2025, particularly at the front. Designers took inspiration from the brand’s truck lineup when crafting the Terrain’s new grille, giving the crossover a “more planted and athletic stance.” A new two-tone roof option—available in black or gray—also debuts for 2025. The Denali comes with standard animated headlights and taillights, adding an upscale touch to the Terrain’s top trim.
With the departure of the entry-level SLE and SLT trims, the 2025 Terrain’s interior is notably more upscale at the lineup’s entry point. GMC designers incorporated decorative chrome strips across the dashboard, upper door panels, and console armrest to accentuate the cabin’s width. Judging from the photos, it appears as though simulated or real leather seats are standard.
Drivers face a new 11-inch driver information display, and the push-button gear selector is gone—replaced by a stalk mounted on the right side of the steering column. Separately, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come on every 2025 Terrain, and the Denali pampers occupants with heated front and rear outboard seats.
GMC is keeping things simple regarding the new Terrain’s powertrain. All 2025 Terrain SUVs will have a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (there is no hybrid option) connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the previous nine-speed unit. Output measures 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. Maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds.
While these aren’t the typical powerhouse numbers seen from other GMC SUVs and pickups, the Terrain should be capable of towing a small utility trailer.
All-wheel drive will be standard on the 2025 Elevation trim at launch, but a front-wheel-drive (FWD) version might become available in 2026. Based on the automaker’s history, the AT4 and Denali trims will likely have standard AWD when they arrive. Elevation and AT4 trims have standard 17-inch wheels, while the Denali will come with 19-inch wheels with the option to upgrade to 20 inches.
GMC has spent the last few years rolling out AT4 versions of its trucks and SUVs, including the Terrain. While the AT4 and upscale Denali trims will skip the 2025 model year, they will join the lineup for 2026.
When it arrives, the 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 will include animated headlights and taillights, red front recovery hooks, raised ride height, 17-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, metal skid plate, trim-exclusive Terrain drive mode, AWD, and hill-descent control. The Denali, meanwhile, will take a slightly different approach to ride dynamics, featuring standard “smart” frequency suspension dampers for a smooth ride.
In addition to the styling and minor powertrain updates, GMC enhanced the Terrain’s standard advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) offering for 2025. Highlights include:
The 2025 Terrain features a new 15-inch touchscreen that is the gateway to the latest version of the GMC Infotainment System. Occupants can view up to three apps at once on the new, larger screen, and the built-in Google Assistant enables hands-free texting, phone calls, directions via Google Maps, and various vehicle function controls. The system allows owners to add and customize apps like Spotify via the 5G Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Terrain adds an optional rearview camera mirror for 2025—one of eight available camera views. Other available tech features include a high-definition surround-view camera, rain-sensing wipers, wireless chargers near the armrest, and an auto-sensing power liftgate.
The GMC Terrain competes in a jam-packed compact SUV vehicle segment with several sales powerhouses, including the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Toyota RAV4. Other formidable competitors include the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5/CX-50, and Subaru Forester. Many compact crossover SUV buyers will also likely cross-shop the similar Chevrolet Equinox, though the GMC caters to a more upscale customer base than the Chevy.
While the Terrain isn’t among the very top sellers in the compact SUV segment, come 2025, it will be one of the newer kids on the block, along with the refreshed 2025 Nissan Rogue. The Honda CR-V was all-new for the 2023 model year and is likely another year or two away from a mid-cycle refresh. Toyota last rolled out an all-new RAV4 for the 2019 model year, so it’s due for a redesign, though the automaker has made incremental updates to its popular SUV for most of the past five years.
GMC is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of August 12, 2024, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Jeff Youngs has over 25 years of experience in the auto industry, including 19 years with JD Power in marketing and editorial management roles. He also spent nearly six years with General Motors as a media relations professional. More recently, as a freelance automotive journalist, his work has appeared on JDPower.com, CarGurus, Kelley Blue Book, Autotrader, Autolist, and iSeeCars.
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