The roster
GMC's Terrain lineup starts with the SLE trim level, and it’s the only one that comes with a front-wheel drive OR all-wheel drive configuration, your choice. Otherwise, four-wheel drive is standard with the SLT, AT4 and Denali models, ranked in that order. Interestingly, and unusually, there’s a price drop with most models in 2022: $600 for the SLE ($32,498 instead of the 2021's $33,098) and SLT ($34,898 instead of $35,498) versions, and $800 for the SLT variant ($37,498 instead of $38,298).
The AT4 version is of course new at $38,098. Only the Denali model is up, from $42,498 to $43,498. We'll let you do the math on that one…
GMC is proud of its pricing accomplishment and was also happy, during our drive event in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, to point out the added content delivered even with the price cuts.
With the SLE and SLT models, we're talking LED headlights and lights, automatic climate control, start/stop button and wireless connection to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps. With the Denali variant, meanwhile, you do get new standard features to justify the $1,000 price hike, including a head-up display, 8-inch customizable information screen on the instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, automatic park assist and HD surround view.
As for option packages, here's what you can add to some versions:
GMC Pro Safety Plus suite (SLE, SLT and AT4)
- Lane departure warning with side-obstacle detection, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, adaptive cruise control, rear seat alert and mirror-mounted turn signals.
The Technology Package (STL and AT4)
- HD surround view, head-up display, front and rear park assist.
Multimedia System I (SLE)
- 8.0-inch display for multimedia system and integrated navigation with GMC Connected Services, 4.2-inch instrument cluster information display, HD rearview camera, additional USB ports, 110V power outlet.
The GMC Pro Grade Package (SLE, SLT and AT4)
- Multimedia System I, GMC Pro Safety Plus suite, and a sunroof.
Elevation Appearance Package (SLE and SLT)
- Black 19-inch aluminum wheels, black wheel centers with red GMC lettering, black grille, and black roof rails, mirror caps and accents.
The multimedia system II (SLT and AT4)
- The multimedia system I in addition to a Bose audio system with seven speakers and amplifier, as well as HD radio.
Conclusion
The GMC Terrain is getting a little bit better for 2022, but the recipe remains essentially unchanged. The model does well when compared to its rivals. That may not be reflected in sales enough for GMC's liking, but the division is making progress. In fact, it's the one that has adjusted its image the most in recent years. It's also one of the brands that knows that image best.
And in the automotive industry, as in life, you get ahead when you start to know thyself well.
We like
Interesting touch-ups
Very strong brand image
Very successful styling
Solid and positive driving experience
We like less
The Denali version (luxury is advertised, but it's hard to find
The removal of the 2.0L engine, which we miss
Despite the price drop, the cost remains high
Specifications sheet of 2022 GMC Terrain AT4
