GMC, as a brand, often positions itself as a slightly more premium alternative to Chevrolet within the General Motors family. It’s the attainable aspiration for Chevy truck buyers, offering a step up in prestige without jumping to Cadillac. This marketing strategy, built on the idea of “Professional Grade,” has worked for many, even if the underlying vehicles sometimes share much with their Chevrolet counterparts. But how does this philosophy translate to their compact SUV, the GMC Terrain? We delve into a comprehensive review of the 2022 GMC Terrain, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it lives up to the GMC badge, especially when compared to rivals in the crowded compact SUV segment.
Initial impressions of the Terrain can be deceiving. Its styling can make it appear smaller than it actually is, potentially raising concerns about interior space. However, stepping inside reveals a different story. Despite sharing a platform with the Chevrolet Equinox, the 2022 GMC Terrain manages to carve out its own identity, aiming for a blend of practicality and a touch of upscale feel. This review is based on real-world experience, offering insights into what it’s like to live with the Terrain day-to-day.
Surprising Space and Practicality: Overcoming Initial Doubts
One of the most pleasant surprises of the 2022 GMC Terrain is its interior space. Despite its seemingly compact exterior dimensions, the Terrain offers generous room for both passengers and cargo. Front and rear passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, making it comfortable for longer journeys. The cargo area is also surprisingly spacious, easily accommodating luggage for family trips or weekend getaways.
The practical design extends to the ease of loading and unloading cargo. The power tailgate adds convenience, and the flat load floor makes it simple to arrange items. For families or individuals who prioritize versatility and space in a compact SUV, the 2022 GMC Terrain delivers more than expected.
Interior Comfort and Quality: A Step Above the Segment?
Moving inside, the 2022 GMC Terrain attempts to justify its “Professional Grade” aspirations with an interior that aims for a more refined feel than some competitors. In the SLT trim, features like leather seating, real aluminum trim, and a well-designed steering wheel contribute to an elevated ambiance. The dashboard architecture is understated and dignified, avoiding the overly trendy or digital-heavy designs found in some modern vehicles.
While the interior boasts some upscale touches, there are areas where cost-cutting is evident. The presence of hard, glossy plastic, particularly on the center console and door panels, detracts from the overall premium feel. However, in its segment, the 2022 GMC Terrain’s interior is generally considered competitive, offering a comfortable and reasonably well-appointed space for occupants.
Driving Experience: Road Manners and Performance
On the road, the 2022 GMC Terrain demonstrates competent and agreeable driving dynamics. The steering is responsive and provides decent feedback, contributing to stable handling. Road noise is reasonably well-isolated, and the overall structure feels solid. Braking performance is also commendable, offering confident stopping power.
The ride quality is generally comfortable, although it can become slightly firm on uneven or choppy pavement. However, for typical daily driving and highway cruising, the 2022 GMC Terrain provides a pleasant and fuss-free experience. It’s a vehicle that inspires confidence and is easy to live with in various driving conditions.
Powertrain and Transmission: The Weak Link?
Perhaps the most criticized aspect in 2022 Gmc Terrain Reviews is its powertrain. The sole engine option is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. While this engine delivers adequate low-end torque for city driving and initial acceleration, it can feel underpowered when merging onto highways or attempting to pass at higher speeds.
The 9-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and refined in normal driving conditions. However, when pushed for quicker acceleration, it can exhibit some lag and become busier as it cycles through gears to extract the most from the small engine. For drivers seeking brisk performance, the 2022 GMC Terrain’s powertrain may leave something to be desired, especially when compared to competitors offering more powerful engine options.
Ergonomic Quirks and Annoyances
While generally user-friendly, the 2022 GMC Terrain does have a few ergonomic shortcomings. The push-button gear selector, while freeing up center console space, can be less intuitive than a traditional gear lever for some drivers. The manual gear toggle buttons are also awkwardly placed and require taking eyes off the road to operate.
Other minor annoyances include a slightly raised dead pedal and the placement of the electronic parking brake button, which is somewhat hidden and requires a long press to engage. These ergonomic quirks, while not deal-breakers, can detract slightly from the overall user experience.
Value and Competition: Is the 2022 Terrain Worth It?
The 2022 GMC Terrain competes in the fiercely contested compact SUV segment, facing off against popular rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and others. When considering value, the Terrain’s price point places it in a competitive position within the segment.
However, when comparing features and performance for the price, some competitors may offer a more compelling package. For instance, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are often praised for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value, while the Mazda CX-5 is lauded for its engaging driving dynamics and upscale interior. Prospective buyers should carefully weigh their priorities and compare the 2022 GMC Terrain against its rivals to determine the best fit for their needs and budget.
Conclusion: A Competent Compact SUV with Room for Improvement
The 2022 GMC Terrain is a competent and practical compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, surprisingly spacious interior, and a reasonably upscale ambiance for its segment. It fulfills its mission as a versatile family vehicle and daily driver. However, its powertrain performance is underwhelming, and some ergonomic quirks and material choices prevent it from truly standing out as a class leader.
Whether the 2022 GMC Terrain is “Professional Grade” enough depends on individual expectations. It’s a solid offering in the compact SUV market, particularly for those prioritizing space, comfort, and a touch of GMC brand appeal. However, buyers seeking more engaging performance or a truly premium experience may want to explore other options in this highly competitive segment. Ultimately, the 2022 GMC Terrain is a decent vehicle that capably meets the needs of many compact SUV buyers, but it doesn’t redefine the class.
