2018 GMC Terrain gets Acadia-like looks and diesel power option

GMC is showing a new 2018 Terrain at this year's Detroit Auto Show, to which I say it's about freaking time. Available since the 2010 mile year more than 700,000 first gen Terrain's have found homes, but a seven year run is really long, making the arrive of the new model a welcome sight. On the outside the Train styling clearly borrows from the Arcadia with the shape tweak in the wind tunnel, with efficiency and cabin quietness in mind. Range topping Denali models get additional goodies such as LED headlights, a fan chrome grill, 19 inch wheels, and a live chrome trim. The biggest news comes under the hood with three new engine choices. Base train models get the 1.5 liter, 170 horsepower turbo four cylinder, while those looking for more ponies can get a 2 liter, 252 horsepower turbo four. Both come mated to a nine speed automatic transmission. Fans of low end torque will like the 1.6L turbo diesel with 137 horsepower and 240 pound feet of twist. The diesel works with a six speed automatic. Front and all wheel drive models will be offered with all wheel drive Terrains getting a front wheel drive mode that decouples the rear axles when conditions allow for improved fuel economy. For the cabin, refinement is up. With aluminum trim, more soft touch surfaces, and more spacious center console, thanks to a new electronic precision shift controller, which uses buttons and triggers to replace the old fashioned transmission shifter. Depending on trim, the Terrain will feature a seven or eight inch infotainment system, with standard 4G LTE wi-fi hotspot, Apple Car Play, and Android Auto. On Denali models the cabin is further spruced up with unique trim, front seat piping, a heated steering wheel, navigation, and Bose audio system. GMC is also expanding the trains menu of safety features to include a 360 degree camera, forward collision warning with automatic braking, and lane change assist. The 2018 GMC Terrain will go on sale in summer to battle the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, and Jeep Cherokee. Pricing hasn't been announced, but a base price closer to today's Terrain is a safe bet, which starts at about $24,000. But the important thing here is that there's a new Terrain. I'll say it again, it's about time. [BLANK_AUDIO]