First Look: 2025 GMC Terrain Covers New Ground

GMC is giving the compact Terrain crossover a new, bolder look for 2025, while upgrading its powertrain and technology – including the new Google built-in system. It also adopts a new, three-trim strategy that should be easier for buyers to figure out. But you may have to wait a but to get the version of the 2025 GMC Terrain you want, as Headlight.News explains.

As the most affordable product in the GMC portfolio, the Terrain is also one of the brand’s most popular model lines, second only to the flagship Sierra pickup.

So, it should come as no surprise that the 2025 GMC Terrain gets more than just the usual, minimalist mid-cycle refresh. The General Motors truck brand comes through with not only a significant design tweak but updates to the SUV’s powertrain. There’s more technology, including twin digital displays on all trims.

And there, GMC has made another notable change, dropping the old SLE and SLT packages in favor of the new Elevation trim. That should make it easier for buyers on a budget to figure out what they want. But GMC is launching the new 2025 Terrain in stages and you may have to wait for the version you want until early next year.

Updated design

Sharing a platform with the latest-generation Chevrolet Equinox, the 2025 GMC Terrain gets a number of welcome updates.

The new model won’t come as a shock to current Terrain owners as it doesn’t stray far from the look of the outgoing model. That doesn’t mean it’s just a carryover design, however. For one thing, it’s now 2 inches wider than the old model, giving it a more planted feel. The 2025 model stands 1 inch taller but its wheelbase and overall length remain close to the older Terrain.

The overall look is more upright with, in auto design-speak, a more “proud” front end. It falls closer in line with other recently updated GMC models with details like the “X-Wing” front trim and lighting. The added width is particularly apparent from the rear, a look enhanced by new lighting that flows into Terrain’s tailgate.

GMC expects a high take rate for a new, 2-tone roof option available on all Terrain trims.

New interior

For 2025, Terrain makes use of the added width with wider seating that provides more room for shoulders and butts, especially in the rear row.

The width is accentuated by a new, horizontal design to the instrument panel. One of the more welcome updates is the switch to an all-digital display approach, with am 11-inch gauge cluster and a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen – standard on all trim levels.

Material choices and finishes have been upgraded across the board, especially on the Denali package. And there’s more storage, including a small bin atop the IP, as well as a more functional center console.

More GMC News

• New GMC Sierra EV to Get “CrabWalk”
• GMC Reverses Course with New Acadia
• GMC/AEV/ Sierra Grande Concept is Unstoppable
  

New technology

One of the most notable updates for 2025, beyond the upgraded digital displays, is the switch to the Google built-in operating system. That includes a voice assistant that can be activated simply by saying, “Hey Google.” GMC also equips Terrain with Amazon’s Alexa meaning you can access either Google home or Alexa smart devices to, say, remotely turn on lights while driving home from work.

A rearview camera mirror is now available, as is a wireless charger, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a 5G wireless WiFi hotspot.  An AutoSense tailgate – which can tell if someone with the key is standing behind the Terrain – is also on the list. Depending upon the package, notably the Terrain Denali, many of these features come standard.

The 2025 GMC Terrain adds a number of new advanced driver assistance systems, 15 now standard on all trims. And there are now up to eight different camera views available.

One thing missing: the Terrain still won’t get General Motors’ handsfree Super Cruise system which is expected to be offered on a wider range of GMC products in 2025.

Powertrain

All versions of the 2025 GMC Terrain will be powered by a 1.5-liter turbo-four making 175 horsepower. Buyers will have a choice of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive.

With the FWD model, the engine is mated to a CVT and torque is rated at 184 pound-feet. AWD versions get an 8-speed automatic and torque gets bumped to 203 lb-ft.

There is no hybrid package available – something that could prove a disadvantage as it’s becoming increasingly common in the compact SUV/CUV market. But GMC officials said it is something they might consider before the latest-generation Terrain ends its run.

The automaker hasn’t confirmed EPA mileage ratings yet. But it said AWD models can tow up to 1,500 pounds. That drops to 800 lbs on Elevation FWD packages.

New Elevation trim and other updates

The old SLT and SLE models will be dropped for 2025, replaced by the Elevation trim. It will offer a choice of FWD or AWD – the familiar Denali and AT4 packages coming only with all-wheel-drive.

All trims will add new features for the new model year, starting with the two digital displays.

The 2025 Denali will get new, “animated” LED lighting and a choice of 19 or 20-inch wheels and tires.

The off-road-oriented AT4 features 17-inch all-terrain wheels and increased ride height.

All Terrain trims now feature Hill Descent Control.

Pricing and availability

According to GMC officials, “there won’t be any sticker shock,” though it would be a surprise if we didn’t see at least a small increase in pricing for the 2025 Terrain. The outgoing model starts at $30,095 before adding delivery fees. The top-line Denali pushes just over $40,000, all-in.

In an unusual move, GMC launches production with the FWD Elevation trim late this year. It’s more common for manufacturers to start out with high-end packages but Elevation is expected to account for about 75% of total Terrain demand.

Look for the Terrain Denali and AT4 packages to arrive in showrooms early in the 2025 calendar year.