2018 GMC Terrain Trim Comparison
Sporting a total redesign for the 2018 model year, the 2018 GMC Terrain is a competitive consideration for those shopping the compact crossover class. Lighter than earlier model years by 400 pounds and shorter in length by a bit more than three inches, the new Terrain also has upgraded engine options and transmissions, geared towards enhanced fuel economy and overall performance.
Despite its weight and length reduction, the Terrain still offers a roomy interior and plenty of cargo space. Thanks to levers located in the trunk, folding the rear seats flat couldn’t be easier, and doing so returns a total cargo capacity of 63.5 cubic feet.
Between these significant enhancements and the overall popularity of the small crossover SUV segment, a GMC Terrain trim comparison is worthy of review, particularly ahead of any test drive - though we recommend taking each of the four for a spin - and wholeheartedly agree with Edmunds’ assessment that “GMC’s new generation of Terrain is one of the nicest compact crossovers on the market.”
Depending on what you need and want from your new Terrain, the following list of stand-out features distinguishing each trim level should prove helpful.
SL - Starting MSRP $24,995
As the entrant trim, the SL is exclusively equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, boasting 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, matched with a nine-speed automatic transmission, configured for front-wheel drive. Expect standard equipment like cruise control, keyless entry and ignition, 110-volt power outlets up front and in back, rearview camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel, two USB ports for the driver and front-seat passenger, a twinset of charging-only ports in the back, 7-inch touchscreen, six-speaker sound system, featuring satellite radio, and compatible technologies like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. Technology designed for optimal safety, like OnStar and GM’s own Teen Driver are also included.
While this is an impressive list of standard fare, extra bells and whistles are not available on this trim, save trailering equipment. What’s more, for those who like to showcase some personal style with their vehicle, the Terrain SL comes in only three colors, each of which cost extra (Ebony Twilight Metallic and Quicksilver Metallic), unless you opt for Summit White. The SL offers only one interior color, Jet Black.
SLE - Starting MSRP $27,820
Expect much of the same from the mid-range SLE, along with a few enhancements. Upgrades include convenient features like a spare tire and automatic dimming rearview mirror, along with some interior polish to the trim.
Standard operation comes from the 1.5-liter engine, along with the choice of either a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, generating 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, or the more fuel efficient 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged diesel-powered engine, producing 137 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, rumored to return 40 mpg highway.
Regardless of engine choice, which feature front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive is an option. In fact, all Terrains equipped with AWD feature a knob that makes changing between both operations a cinch.
Opting for the SLE gives you access to a host of packages, like Driver Convenience, Infotainment I, Driver Alert I, not to mention a handful of additional, stand-alone features.
- Driver Convenience
- Choose this package and enjoy heated seats up front, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable seat for the driver, and roof rails.
- Infotainment I
- This packages delivers a navigation system, 8-inch color touchscreen, SD card reader, color information display integrated into the gauge cluster, 110-volt household-style power outlet for back seat passengers, and two extra USB ports up front.
- Driver Alert I - For added safety and comfort, the Driver Alert I package provides rear cross-traffic alert, complemented by rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, along with heated mirrors.
Opt for a few of these enhancements individually, including trailering equipment and an available panoramic sunroof.
The SLE’s interior shades include your choice of Jet Black or Medium Ash Gray, along with exterior options of Blue Steel Metallic, Coppertino Metallic, Ebony Twilight Metallic, Graphite Gray Metallic, Quicksilver Metallic, Red Quartz Tintcoat, Satin Steel Metallic, and Summit White.
SLT - Starting MSRP $31,320
Take the Driver Convenience and Infotainment I package - drop the navigation - add leather interior, and you’ve got the Terrain SLT. In addition to the available Driver Alert I, the SLT can be further enhanced by Driver Alert II, complete with lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and low-speed forward collision warning, supported by automatic braking. Add the Infotainment II and enjoy a Bose seven-speaker sound system, along with navigation. Additional perks are possible from the Preferred package, delivering memory settings for the driver seat, a heated steering wheel, a power passenger seat, and a power liftgate for ultimate convenience.
The SLT shares the same three engine options as the SLE, as well as the same exterior color palette, but adds one interior shade, Brandy.
Denali - Starting MSRP $37,520
Representing the top of the trim levels, the Terrain Denali is equipped exclusively by the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, giving it a maximum towing capacity of 3500 lbs. Distinguished by the rest of the lineup, courtesy of design details, both inside and out, the Denali sports LED headlights and stands on 19-inch wheels. Taking the best of the Driver Alert I and Preferred packages, the Denali also boasts a panoramic sunroof, and can be enhanced by additional available options, courtesy of the Driver Alert II, Advanced Safety, and Comfort packages.
Make parking easier than ever with the Advanced Safety’s automated parking system, complete with a top-down parking camera, or feel super cozy and connected thanks to the Comfort’s heated seats throughout and wireless charging pad for your smartphone.
The Denali swaps Coppertino Metallic for Mineral Metallic and features two interior shade options: Jet Black and Light Platinum.
Although the crossover compact SUV class is competitive, it is consistently celebrated for keeping on the cutting-edge of consumer expectations. Between its well-established popularity and recent redesign, the 2018 GMC Terrain should be your top target, no matter which trim level you ultimately choose.
