2026 GMC TERRAIN

GMC BRINGS BACK DENALI TRIM 

FOR THIRD-GENERATION TERRAIN SUV

After offering only one trim level for 2025, GMC reunited both the upgraded AT4 and Denali models with the base Elevation to the 2026 Terrain lineup.

Both add new content that take aim at specific buyer pools. The AT4 is targeted at those seeking a bit more in off-roading capability from their vehicle while the Denali leans toward those seeking more in the way of creature comforts in a more premium environment.

Neither trim level was offered on the 2025 GMC Terrrain, which perhaps accounts for its dip in sales for the first two quarters of this year despite a redesign that moved it into its third generation.

This review is based on the Denali trim of the 2026 GMC Terrain.

Like the Chevrolet Equinox it shares a platform and other features with, the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in all trims and is rated at 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque.

It’s not a dragster, but is satisfactory for real-life driving around town and on expressways.

That engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission in the Denali. All-wheel drive also is standard on the Denali, but requires activating via a small button to the left of the steering wheel. Fuel-mileage numbers are a so-so 24 miles-per-gallon city, 26 highway, and 25 combined which the government estimates will cost you an extra $1,500 in fuel costs over a 5-year period.

Classed as a compact SUV, the 2026 GMC Terrain seats only five in two rows but seems larger. Cargo space also is generous with nearly30 cubic feet behind the second-row. Fold the back row and the area expands to just just 64 cubic feet.

As expected with the top trim, the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali comes with a long list of creature comforts. They include dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front bucket seats featuring perforated leather surfaces, an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated outboard second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel.

Most standard tech functions operate off a 15-inch tablet touchscreen that dominates the dash, but a row of buttons at  the bottom of that screen offer a simpler way of manual operation for climate control like the blower and defrost functions. 

Wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also are included as is keyless entry and push-button start. A power liftgate, rain sensitive windshield wipers, and LED head and taillights are standard.

Among standard safety features are enhanced emergency braking, front pedestrian and cyclist braking, rear pedestrian alert, enhanced lane-keepog assist and lane-departure warning, blind-spot alert, adaptive cruise control, and HD surround view monitor. 

All that is covered in a starting MSRP of $42,495 (including the $1,395 destination charge). My test 2026 GMC Terrain Denali features options like a panoramic sunroof, special aluminum wheels, a distinctive roof, and a floor liner package that ran the final total to $45,310.

The base Elevation starts at $30.395 for front-wheel drive models and $33,295 for those with all-wheel drive. Starting MSRP for the new AT4 trim starts at $39,995.

What I liked about the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali: The exterior has a classy look. The interior has a premium feel about it with lots of tech features. Cargo space is competitive with other compact SUVs.

What I didn’t like about the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali:  The large touchscreen can be overwhelming in dominating the front dash, but at least the learning curve isn’t steep. Fuel economy ranks in the lower environs of the segment. There also was a significant clunk as it traversed speed bumps in my neighborhood, even at a low speed.

Would I buy the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali? No. The compact SUV field is very competitive and though the Terrain has a lot going for it, it’s not enough to stand out among the segment leaders. Going for the Equinox will save you up front.