The 2026 GMC Terrain is finally getting the personality it’s been missing. With bold new trims, a much more distinctive interior, and a focus on both rugged styling and premium comfort, this year’s SUV finally steps out of the Equinox’s shadow.
Let’s take a closer look at what's new on the 2026 GMC Terrain!
Key Takeaways
- AT4 and Denali trims finally give the Terrain some real identity
- All trims use the same 1.5L turbo engine with FWD or AWD setups
- AT4 brings trail-friendly style; Denali focuses on comfort and luxury
- You can test-drive one right now!
Changes and Prices for 2026
The Terrain gets two standout trims for 2026: the rugged-ish AT4 and the upscale Denali. The AT4 brings just enough off-road flavor to give it some weekend-ready cred—think higher ride height, all-terrain tires, underbody protection, and those signature red recovery hooks. It’s not a full-on rock crawler, but it’s perfect for forest roads and dirt trail adventures.
Then there’s the Denali. And this time, it’s not just shiny wheels and fancy badges. It comes with heated rear seats, its own comfort-tuned suspension, and sleek 19-inch wheels. It finally feels like a proper range-topper, not just a trim package with attitude.
Here’s how trims and pricing shakes out:
- Elevation FWD: $31,295
- Elevation AWD: $33,295
- AT4 AWD: $39,995
- Denali AWD: $42,495
Same Engine With a Smarter Setup
There are no surprises under the hood—every 2026 Terrain runs the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 175 hp. FWD models pair that with a CVT, while AWD versions get a smoother 8-speed automatic.
The AT4 softens the ride with chunkier tires that don’t beat you up on rough roads, and the Denali uses its own upgraded suspension to keep things calm even on its larger wheels.
Towing and MPG for the 2026 Terrain
Don’t expect to tow your boat with the Terrain, but it can manage light-duty towing without drama. Here’s what to expect:
- AWD models: Up to 1,500 lbs
- FWD models: Up to 800 lbs
Official 2026 mileage numbers aren’t in yet, but based on the 2025 model, here’s rough estimate:
- FWD: 26 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- AWD: 24 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
The Terrain's Tech Glow-Up
This is where the Terrain makes the biggest leap forward. Every trim now comes with a massive 15-inch vertical touchscreen and a sleek new 11-inch digital gauge cluster. Remote start, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel? Standard.
It also runs GM’s new Google-based system, so you get built-in Google Maps, 5G connectivity, and the ability to download apps straight to the screen. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, of course—but even if you don’t plug in, the interface is slick and intuitive.
Materials are solid, with a noticeable bump in quality on the Denali trim. The seats are comfortable enough for long drives, and there’s generous cargo space behind the second row—plenty for camping gear, groceries, or both.
Is 2026 the Year to Go for the Terrain?
If the Terrain’s always felt a little too anonymous for you, the 2026 version changes that. The new trims give it more flavor, whether you lean outdoorsy with the AT4 or prefer luxury-lite with the Denali. If you just want something stylish, roomy, and tech-savvy without breaking the bank, the Elevation AWD still makes a strong case. Stop by our Reliable GMC showroom to experience them all!