Exploring new Terrain
No issues presented themselves with entry, exit or spaciousness. Visibility is decent all around, and the tester got a backup camera with warning beepers-- though most drivers shouldn’t need them.
Complaints of the interior were mainly minor. Central controls are complicated and busy, and some practice is required before their use becomes second nature. Reaching the touch-screen may require some drivers to lean out of their seat, too. Finally, the red accent lighting can't be fully disabled by those who find it yucky-looking.
Albeit a few squeaks in extreme cold, the cabin felt solid and well put together, even if it did miss an opportunity to step ahead in terms of materials selection. Though soft vinyl inserts lend a high-end touch to the console and arm-rests, the dash and doors are mainly covered in the rigid plastic that's become so common in this price range.
Firm, smooth, quiet
The Terrain rides solidly and with a touch of springy sportiness while keeping offending wind and road nicely outside of the vehicle until higher speeds. Notably, both rear-seat noise and tire-roar through the cargo floor are dialed down to lower levels than one will find in key competitors. If this writer’s ears were working properly, even the BMW X5 let in more wind noise at higher speeds.
Ultimately, shoppers on a test-drive should find the Terrain offers car-like handling and stability, paired with an overall nimble and eager driving character.
2.4L, VVT, DI
The test Terrain was powered by GM’s new 2.4-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine with 182-horsepower. Promising great power and mileage, the engine was bolted to a six-speed automatic with a driver-selectable gas-saving ‘eco’ mode. Front wheel-drive was fitted, though AWD is available. So is a V6.
No issues presented themselves with entry, exit or spaciousness. Visibility is decent all around, and the tester got a backup camera with warning beepers-- though most drivers shouldn’t need them.
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| Central controls are complicated and busy, and some practice is required before their use becomes second nature.(Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
Complaints of the interior were mainly minor. Central controls are complicated and busy, and some practice is required before their use becomes second nature. Reaching the touch-screen may require some drivers to lean out of their seat, too. Finally, the red accent lighting can't be fully disabled by those who find it yucky-looking.
Albeit a few squeaks in extreme cold, the cabin felt solid and well put together, even if it did miss an opportunity to step ahead in terms of materials selection. Though soft vinyl inserts lend a high-end touch to the console and arm-rests, the dash and doors are mainly covered in the rigid plastic that's become so common in this price range.
Firm, smooth, quiet
The Terrain rides solidly and with a touch of springy sportiness while keeping offending wind and road nicely outside of the vehicle until higher speeds. Notably, both rear-seat noise and tire-roar through the cargo floor are dialed down to lower levels than one will find in key competitors. If this writer’s ears were working properly, even the BMW X5 let in more wind noise at higher speeds.
Ultimately, shoppers on a test-drive should find the Terrain offers car-like handling and stability, paired with an overall nimble and eager driving character.
2.4L, VVT, DI
The test Terrain was powered by GM’s new 2.4-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine with 182-horsepower. Promising great power and mileage, the engine was bolted to a six-speed automatic with a driver-selectable gas-saving ‘eco’ mode. Front wheel-drive was fitted, though AWD is available. So is a V6.
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| The test Terrain was powered by GM’s new 2.4-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower.(Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |