2009 GMC Terrain: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

What was originally the 2009 GMC Terrain will now debut in calendar 2009 as a 2010 model. Terrain is this General Motors division's first five-passenger crossover SUV. It's GMC's smallest vehicle and shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Equinox. Like Equinox, Terrain will offer 4-cylinder and V6 engines. Base SLE and top-end SLT trim levels are available. SLE versions have a 182-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. SLT versions have a 264-hp 3.0-liter V6. The sole transmission is a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Terrain marks the first application of GM's Active Noise Cancellation system, which is designed to quell mechanical noise. A rearview camera is standard on all Terrain models, as is GM's MultiFlex rear seat that slides up to 8 inches fore and aft to benefit passenger or cargo room. Remote engine start, a navigation system with 40-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music files, and DVD entertainment are available. We have not yet tested the 2010 GMC Terrain.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the GMC Terrain, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.