The compact GMC Terrain SUV has received the brand’s AT4 treatment, as well as a mild refresh for model-year 2022. The AT4 trim level is the fastest-selling trim across all models in the GMC lineup and is a great addition to the Terrain model mix.
While GMC’s well-known Denali trim focuses on outright luxury, GMC’s AT4 trim level puts emphasis on ruggedness, near-luxury, and technology. Scaled-down to fit the compact GMC Terrain, the AT4 package gives the Terrain standard all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires on trim-specific 17-inch black wheels, a trim-specific front grill, and fascia, and a front skid plate.
The Terrain AT4 is powered by a diminutive 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine which makes 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. While this engine is ample for the Terrain, it does feel a bit underwhelming during spirited passing or merging maneuvers. The small engine does contribute to the Terrain’s good fuel economy though, achieving 27 miles per gallon in our combined driving style.
The additional components from Terrain’s 2022 refresh include standard LED headlights, new tail-lights, refreshed grille designs, and new wheels. Our tester included the optional new heads-up display, and an 8-inch driver information display. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on the Terrain, as are a whole suite of safety systems that are expected on an upper-trim level vehicle.
The 2022 GMC Terrain AT4’s interior hasn’t changed much through the refresh. All buttons and knobs and other interfaces are easy to use and access. There are some noticeably cheap materials used throughout the Terrain, though overall the finishes are very nice for a compact SUV. The seats are comfortable, and the rear seats are surprisingly spacious for even taller occupants.
Our Terrain AT4 tester included heated and powered front seats, dual-zone climate control, a surround vision camera, and a panoramic sunroof.
Cargo space is a bit smaller than some of the Terrain’s Asian competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V at 29.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 63.3 cubic feet when folded down. This is still a good amount of usable space, but not class-leading.
The GMC Terrain AT4 drives vell on the 17-inch all-terrain tires and is very comfortable even on the roughest of roads. The additional sidewall from the higher-profile all-terrain tires helps soak up those imperfections with ease. Being all-terrain tires, they do tend to be a bit on the noisier side but not so much that it’s ever overwhelming in the cabin. The Terrain is a perfectly suited small SUV for families who enjoy getting out on the road for several hundred miles in a stretch, comfort-wise.
Overall, I really enjoyed the GMC Terrain AT4. It’s a great mix of comfort, ruggedness, and style. It does feel a bit old in places, even with the refresh, but in general, it’s a fantastic place to spend time on the road. The new AT4 trim level will be a hit amongst buyers looking for a bit more excitement out of a small SUV.
The Terrain AT4 starts at $36,395 including destination. Our tester was equipped with the tech package, GMC Pro Safety Plus, and the Infotainment Package II putting the price as-tested at $39,070 including $1395 destination.
