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2017 GMC Terrain review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

GMC Terrain highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Spacious backseat that slides and reclines for added comfort
  • Available V6 engine makes this crossover faster than even modern competitors
  • Quiet and comfortable interior with a smooth ride
  • Some advanced driver aids available

Cons

  • Four-cylinder engine feels sluggish
  • Less cargo space than many rivals
  • Touchscreen is hard to reach

Mileage (EPA estimate)

16 city, 23 highway, 18 combined

Pricing for current inventory

From $16,998*

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Roomy passenger space and V6 power key 2017 GMC Terrain strengths

The final model year for the first generation of GMC’s compact SUV, the 2017 GMC Terrain still has noteworthy strengths, if you’re willing to look past some understandably older features.

The available 3.6-liter V6 engine boasts enough horsepower to leave modern rivals in the dust, and is a much better choice than the standard lackluster four-cylinder. The Terrain’s rear seat is also top-notch, with a sliding mechanism that moves the seat bottom nearly eight inches forward or backward to optimize either cargo or legroom. While the interior is dated by the dozens of buttons on the dash, it still looks good, and the touchscreen-averse might prefer the plentiful buttons.

As an older vehicle, modern tech like smartphone integration and advanced driver aids aren’t widely available. But upper trims (SLE-2 and above) add Bluetooth® audio streaming to the standard USB audio inputs, helping the Terrain feel a bit more modern despite its age. Additionally, the Terrain was available with blind spot warning and cross-traffic alert, forward collision alert and lane departure warning, which we recommend holding out for.

All GMC Terrain years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each GMC Terrain generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2017 GMC Terrain?

  • Running Boards features are now available as options on select trims.

GMC Terrain photos

What We Like

V6 Power: Even by today’s yardstick, the GMC Terrain when equipped with the V6 engine is a (relative) rocket ship, handily outpacing modern rivals in acceleration. When properly equipped it can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is pretty good for this class of vehicle.

The downside, not surprisingly, is that fuel economy lags behind more modern vehicles. Still, if you need extra oomph, this V6 has you covered.

Rear Seat Flexibility: The sliding rear seat on the Terrain is definitely a strength. With the seat in its rearmost position, it actually has more legroom than the more modern Terrain (2018-present). Additionally, cargo space is also a little bit better than the newer model.

Interior Comfort: GMC is positioned as an upscale brand, and the Terrain delivers with comfortable seats, a quiet interior, and a notably smooth ride over rough surfaces. That goes double for the cushy, luxury-level Denali trim.

What Needs Improvement

Interior Controls: Even when it was new, the 2017 Terrain was criticized for its confusing climate controls and infotainment interface compared to contemporary vehicles. A combination of a touchscreen that’s a stretch to reach and lots of buttons make it cumbersome to use. At least the main controls are duplicated on the steering wheel, but other vehicles from this time period are simply more intuitive to use.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.2 out of 5

27 customer reviews
Based on customer reviews, the 2017 GMC Terrain is a car with good gas mileage, sound system technology, and smooth handling.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the GMC Terrain an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks GMC Terrain 11th out of 29 among Compact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the GMC Terrain

GMC Terrain features and specs

Curious how GMC Terrain trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Denali 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Pioneer Sound System
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • Automatic Transmission
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Navigation System
  • Running Boards
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.4L

Horsepower

182

Torque (ft-lbs)

172

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

18.8

Wheelbase

112.5"

Overall length

185.5"

Width

72.8"

Height

66.3"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 39.9"

Head room

F 39.8"/R 39.2"

Front tires

P235/55R18

Rear tires

P235/55R18

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

150/1500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2017 GMC Terrain FAQ

GMC Terrain articles

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GMC Terrain inventory

Check out our GMC Terrain inventory

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* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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