GMC did something unexpected this year and added a completely new SUV to its lineup. Even more unexpected is that the Terrain uses a very modern powerplant and cabin tech, all for a reasonable price.
GMC's all-new Terrain seems like an odd addition to its lineup, which already includes many SUVs. But the Terrain is unlike past GMC SUVs, using modern construction and technology.
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With its big, square fenders and headlights, the Terrain has bold SUV style.
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The biggest engine available for the Terrain is this 3-liter direct injection V-6, a break from V-8s of the past. 263 horsepower is complemented by an EPA highway mileage of 25 mpg.
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The interior capacity is typical of SUVs, seating five and including a sizable cargo area in the back.
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Built with a fully independent suspension, unlike the body on frame SUVs of the past, the Terrain has carlike handling.
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Rear fender wells make the cargo area a bit narrow, but it will suit most needs.
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We were impressed by the interior design, which has a very modern feel.
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As our test vehicle came with the 3-liter V-6, it used a hydraulic power steering module. Terrains with the base four-cylinder engine use electric power steering.
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The display on the instrument cluster shows trip, navigation, and audio information.
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The six-speed automatic transmission seemed a weak link in the car's powertrain, delivering sloppy shifts.
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The navigation system has a round, multidirectional button as the main hardware interface. The LCD is also a touch screen, but it is a reach from the driver's seat.
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The navigation system stores its maps on a hard drive, and includes live traffic. The system will find traffic jams on your route and calculate detours.
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The navigation system also has a weather data feed.
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Space is reserved on the navigation's hard drive for music storage. You can rip CDs or copy MP3s to the drive.
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The Terrain features full iPod integration.
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The Pioneer audio system sounded very good, with strong bass from an 8-inch subwoofer.
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The Bluetooth phone system was a disappointment, as it lacked all but the most basic features.
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The rear-view camera has trajectory lines, which show where the car will go depending on how the wheels are turned.