2020 GMC Terrain: A Compact SUV for Everyday Life
The 2020 GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that aims to blend stylish design with practicality and a comfortable driving experience. Positioned as a more premium offering within the segment, it competes with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. For 2020, the Terrain received a few minor updates, solidifying its place as a solid choice for those seeking a well-appointed and capable small SUV.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2020 Terrain offers two distinct turbocharged engine choices:
- 1.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This is the standard engine, delivering 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and is a fuel-efficient option for everyday commuting.
- 2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: Optional on most trims and standard on the Denali, this more potent engine produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It also utilizes a nine-speed automatic transmission and provides a more engaging driving experience with quicker acceleration.
- Advanced Safety Features: GMC equips the 2020 Terrain with a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents:
- Standard GMC Pro Safety: This package includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a frontal collision.
- Forward Collision Alert: Warns the driver of a potential front-end collision.
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: Helps the driver stay within their lane by providing gentle steering inputs and warning if the vehicle drifts.
- Following Distance Indicator: Displays the time gap to a detected vehicle ahead to help the driver maintain a safe following distance.
- IntelliBeam® Auto High Beam Headlamps: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic and lighting conditions.
- Available Features: Depending on the trim, buyers can also opt for:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a set following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert: Detects vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you if you attempt to change lanes.
- HD Surround Vision: Provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvering.
- Standard GMC Pro Safety: This package includes:
- Trim Level Summary: The 2020 GMC Terrain is available in a range of trims, each offering increasing levels of features and refinement:
- SLE: The entry-level trim, still well-equipped with essential features and the standard safety suite.
- SLT: Moves up in comfort and convenience with features like leather-appointed seats and upgraded infotainment options.
- AT4: This trim is geared towards those seeking a slightly more adventurous persona, featuring unique styling cues, all-wheel-drive capability as standard, and enhanced off-road considerations (though still primarily a pavement-focused SUV).
- Denali: The top-tier trim, offering the most luxurious and feature-rich experience. It includes premium materials, enhanced comfort features, the more powerful 2.0L engine as standard, and advanced infotainment.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Stylish Exterior Design: The Terrain boasts a bold and distinctive exterior styling that sets it apart from many competitors.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively.
- Spacious Interior for its Class: While a compact SUV, the cabin offers decent passenger space for four adults and a respectable cargo area.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: GMC's infotainment system is generally intuitive and easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration standard on most trims.
What to Expect
Owning a 2020 GMC Terrain typically involves a predictable and generally pleasant experience. The standard 1.5L engine provides adequate power for daily driving, and the nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Fuel economy is competitive within the segment, making it an economical choice for commuters. The ride quality is often praised for its comfort, making it a good choice for long journeys or navigating less-than-perfect roads.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the Terrain will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, aligning with typical compact SUV schedules. GMC's reliability ratings are generally in the average to above-average range for the segment. It's always advisable to consult the owner's manual for specific maintenance intervals.
Insurance: Insurance costs will vary depending on your location, driving record, chosen trim level, and coverage options. Given its focus on safety features and its positioning within the premium compact SUV segment, expect insurance premiums to be competitive with similarly equipped vehicles from other manufacturers.
Potential Considerations
While the 2020 GMC Terrain offers many positives, there are a few potential drawbacks buyers should be aware of:
- Engine Power (Base 1.5L): For drivers who prioritize strong acceleration or frequently carry heavy loads, the standard 1.5L turbocharged engine might feel a bit underpowered. The optional 2.0L engine is a significant improvement in this regard.
- Cargo Space: While adequate for its class, some competitors offer slightly more cargo volume behind the rear seats and with the seats folded down.
- Rear Seat Space: While comfortable for most, the rear seat might feel a bit more confined for taller adults compared to some larger compact SUVs.
- Road Noise: While generally quiet, some reviews have noted a moderate amount of road and wind noise at highway speeds, especially compared to more premium offerings.
Overall Summary
The 2020 GMC Terrain presents itself as a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped compact SUV. With its standard suite of advanced safety features, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology, it's a practical choice for families and individuals alike. While the base engine might not thrill performance enthusiasts, the optional 2.0L turbo addresses that concern. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that balances a premium feel with everyday usability, the 2020 GMC Terrain is certainly worth considering, particularly in its higher trim levels for a more refined experience.