It wasn't too long ago that the only difference between a GMC and a Chevy was the name tag.
But the days of rebadging a Chevy to create a GMC have passed us by. Today, GM designers make a serious effort to differentiate the GMC vehicles. A case in point is the recently released GMC Terrain crossover.
True, the new Terrain employs the same basic architecture and mechanicals as Chevy's new-for-2010 Equinox, but its exterior sheet metal is unique business, as are a number of its interior features. In other words, the slightly more upmarket Terrain is differentiated from an Equinox in much the same way a Lexus ES parts company with its Toyota Camry cousin.
The Terrain's styling is much bolder, more macho than the relatively sleek, streamlined Equinox. It certainly evokes echoes of the brand's big pickups. There's that big, brash, three-bar chrome grille worthy of a Kenworth, and those meaty, indentation-outlined fender flares.
At 185.3 inches long (2.5 inches shorter than the Equinox), the Terrain dwells in the borderland between midsize and compact SUVs. Thanks to its engineering and design work, it matches or exceeds its midsize competitors in roominess, and beats its compact foes in the refinement and mileage wars. The front-wheel drive, four-cylinder model that I tested had EPA mileage ratings of 22 city and 32 highway. The all-wheel-drive version wasn't far behind at 20 and 29. I got 28.2 in mixed driving.
The Terrain gets these agreeable EPAs even though it is a roomy guy in the neighborhood of two tons. It accomplishes this by using smaller, more efficient engines than those found in the inferior, last-generation Equinox.
The engine choices include the 2.4-liter, 182-horsepower four-banger in the tester, and the 3-liter, 264-horse V-6 found in the more upscale iron.
As it turns out, the Terrain tester's acceleration isn't nearly as remarkable as its mileage - which is what happens when you gear the transmission for optimum fuel economy. But though a zero-to-60 reading of 8.7 seconds isn't going to make anyone feel as if he's living on the wild side, it is certainly adequate. You can shave a second off that time with the V-6, but the added thirst (EPAs of 18 and 25) wouldn't make that bump worthwhile to me.
Interior space is a Terrain strong suit. It seats five readily, and the fore-and-aft adjustment on the rear seat provides limo legroom for the three in the back. There is more than 31 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seat, and nearly 64 when you fold it down.
Not all the Terrain's interior joys have to do with passenger and cargo space. The interior is interestingly styled and nicely crafted from good-looking materials. The instruments are easy to read, and the controls fall readily to hand.
The driver's seat is comfortable and supportive.
The Terrain's refinement is most obvious in its soft-spoken ways. A strong structure and compliant suspension bushings help keep the peace, as does the engine's civility. Unlike a lot of fours in popularly priced vehicles, the Terrain's engine doesn't get abrasively buzzy when pushed.
Road and wind noise are minimal, and the vehicle has received its vibration vaccination. The Terrain also rides well, thanks, in part, to its relatively long, 112.5-inch wheelbase.
Handling is at least competent. The Terrain gets through ambitious corners with modest body lean, and it feels controlled and stable, not at all floaty. Braking is average.
The Terrain starts at $24,250. The slightly upmarket and very nicely equipped SLE that I drove opens at $25,850.
2010 GMC Terrain SLE (front-drive).
Base price: $25,850.
As tested: $28,080 (including shipping).
Standard equipment: Extensive, including a six-automatic transmission, antilock brakes, stability and traction control, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and an eight-way power driver's seat.
Options: Include heated front seats, remote starter, sunroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Engine performance: OK.
Handling: Above average.
Comfort: Exceptional.
Styling: An acquired taste.
Warranty: 36 months / 36,000 miles bumper to bumper.
The Ben Key: Four Bens, excellent; Three Bens, good; Two Bens, fair; One Ben, poor.
Contact Al Haas
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