​​Yahoo!Autos finds Terrain Elevation Well-Equipped and Flexible with Options​ 

The compact crossover segment is one of the most popular in the American automotive industry, managing to outsell even full-size pickup trucks. Since these vehicles are often a brand’s best-selling model, the may incorporate a bewildering number of trim levels and options. Surprisingly, the GMC Terrain keeps it simple with just three trim levels, including the general-purpose Elevation, the off-road-themed AT4, and the luxurious Terrain Denali. Yahoo!Autos took a look at the Terrain model line to see which offers the most bang for the buck, and this Michael Hohl GMC post summarizes what its editors found.  

Yahoo!Autos noted a sizeable gap between the base Elevation’s MSRP of $32,195 and the AT4’s starting MSRP of $41,395. Editors also found that GMC didn’t go bare-bones with the Elevation, which essentially serves as the least-expensive Terrain available. Terrain Elevation uses the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder found in the rest of the model lineup. Front-wheel drive is standard and comes with a continuously variable transmission. All-wheel drive is also available and comes with an 8-speed transmission, which some may appreciate because its gear changes provide a more familiar driving experience. The 8-speed transmission will be standard on all models for the 2027 model year.   

Terrain Elevation includes a mile-long list of standard safety features, including features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot steering assist, an extensive automatic braking system that includes provisions for reverse, intersections, front pedestrians and bicyclists, Rear Parking Assist, and the Following Distance Indicator. 

Technology is not lacking inside either, as all Terrain models include an 11-inch digital and configurable driver information center, a generously sized 15-inch center touchscreen, and Wi-Fi capability, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, Active Noise Cancellation, Wireless Apple CarPlay/Wireless Android, and power one-touch express down for all windows are also standard. As Yahoo!Autos states, “Any base trim is going to have omissions, but the GMC Terrain’s [omissions] don’t materially affect everyday ownership, and numerous available options help fill in the blanks.” 

Such options include dual-zone climate control (single-zone is standard), three synthetic leather designs, ventilated seats, a trailer package, an HD Surround camera system, and traffic sign recognition. The Convenience Package II alone includes: 

• 8-way power adjustable driver seat with 2-way lumbar 
• Cabin humidity and windshield sensor 
• Rainsense intermittent front wipers 
• Dual-zone automatic climate control 
• Heated wiper park 
• Wireless Charging 
• AutoSense Hands-Free power programmable liftgate 
• Brushed aluminum roof rails  
• Overhead sunglass storage 
• Universal Home Remote

This means that unless you truly appreciate the all-terrain tires, higher ride height, off -road tuned suspension, additional driving modes, more rugged appearance, and of course, the standard AWD of the AT4, most of its other features can be added to a Terrain Elevation as you see fit, helping Yahoo!Autos consider it the best value for your money. 

Interestingly, editors found the Terrain Denali a more compelling upgrade than the AT4. Terrain Denali also includes standard AWD with the 8-speed transmission. The review notes that “The Denali’s perforated leather seats alone make a substantial impact on the day-to-day driving feel, and notable options you’d have to spend more for in lower trims, such as front seat ventilation and lumbar control, heated rear outboard seats, and a rear camera mirror, are standard [here].” 

Everyone has their own preferences, of course, but the Yahoo!Autos review makes it clear that the Terrain Elevation is well equipped, with plenty of options and packages to suit your needs, while the Terrain Denali is a solid luxury upgrade. See if you agree by visiting Michael Hohl GMC and taking a test drive of your choice of the Terrain compact crossover.