The 2022 GMC Terrain AT4 arrived with a bold Cayenne Red paint job, immediately setting high expectations. As a compact, entry-level SUV from GMC, a brand synonymous with trucks, the Terrain starts under $30,000, positioning itself as a strong value contender in a competitive market. While some automotive critics have pointed to its engine as being less powerful compared to rivals, this can also be viewed as a testament to its focus on efficiency and value, rather than outright performance.
Having previously tested the Chevy Equinox, Terrain’s cousin, and appreciated its merits, the 2022 Terrain AT4 offers a unique proposition within the GMC lineup. The Terrain comes in four distinct trims, beginning with the SLE in rear-wheel drive, boasting an attractive starting price of $29,095 (all-wheel drive is available for an additional $1,600). Stepping up to the SLT trim likely provides the best balance of features and value, adding desirable amenities such as heated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power rear hatch, all for a reasonable $33,045.
Image alt text: Front view of a red 2022 GMC Terrain SLE parked on a paved surface, highlighting its value-oriented entry price point.
The AT4 trim, a new addition for the 2022 Terrain, specifically targets buyers seeking a blend of light off-road capability and distinctive aesthetics. The vibrant metallic red paint, an optional upgrade, coupled with black accents, grille, and lower-body cladding, gives the Terrain AT4 a genuinely rugged and adventurous appearance. Interestingly, this SUV garnered more attention and admiring glances than some luxury sport sedans, underscoring the current market’s strong appetite for SUVs with visual appeal.
Beyond mere aesthetics, the 2022 Terrain AT4 incorporates functional upgrades for light off-road excursions. These include Goodyear Sport Terrain tires, a traction selection system with a dedicated off-road mode, hill-descent control for managing steep declines, a robust steel skid plate to protect the undercarriage, and unique embroidered AT4 headrests that add a touch of interior distinction. With a starting price of $35,145 and standard all-wheel drive, the AT4 trim represents a compelling option for those desiring a more capable and visually striking Terrain.
For buyers prioritizing luxury, the Denali trim remains the pinnacle of the Terrain range. Even in its top-tier configuration, the 2022 Terrain Denali is priced at a competitive $37,700. The Denali elevates the Terrain experience with features such as a color Head-Up Display (HUD), a premium suspension system for enhanced ride comfort, luxurious leather upholstery and trim accents throughout the interior, cooled front seats and heated rear seats for optimal passenger comfort, wireless charging for devices, and the Pro Safety Plus suite, which incorporates advanced safety technologies.
For families in search of a compact SUV that aligns with a typical household budget, the 2022 Terrain should undoubtedly be considered. However, what truly distinguishes the 2022 Terrain is its exceptional ride quality. GMC engineers have prioritized comfort, recognizing the often-compromised state of American roads. Instead of pursuing an overly stiff, performance-oriented suspension, they have finely tuned the Terrain for superior comfort. This thoughtful approach translates to a remarkably composed ride, even when traversing pothole-ridden streets, uneven pavement, and expansion joints. Passengers remain largely undisturbed by road imperfections thanks to the well-engineered suspension and Goodyear R17 tires. Furthermore, opting for this tire size will prove more economical in the long run compared to larger, more expensive wheel and tire combinations.
This focus on ride comfort alone makes the 2022 Terrain a compelling choice. Complementing the comfortable ride is light and manageable steering, perfectly suited for an SUV of this size. Parking maneuvers are effortless, and despite a somewhat vague steering feel, maintaining lane positioning on the highway is straightforward. While there is some body roll evident in tighter corners, it’s a reasonable trade-off for the overall comfort and practicality intended for family transportation. This isn’t a sports car; it’s designed for comfortable and safe family journeys.
The engine performance of the 2022 Terrain is best described as adequate. The 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, while not producing class-leading horsepower, works harmoniously with the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. The 170 horsepower is effectively utilized, and the 203 pound-feet of torque provides sufficient low-end grunt for confident acceleration from a standstill and for everyday driving situations.
The AT4 model’s standard all-wheel-drive system enhances traction in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow. The Terrain AT4 offers selectable terrain modes, with 2WD being the default for optimal fuel efficiency in normal driving. When conditions demand, a simple turn of a console knob engages AWD, and a dedicated off-road mode is available for venturing onto unpaved surfaces. While not engineered for serious rock crawling, the 2022 Terrain AT4 provides capable traction for light off-road adventures and varied weather conditions.
Image alt text: Angled side view of the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4 showcasing its muscular body design, black trim, and defined lines.
Further enhancing its off-road readiness, the 2022 Terrain AT4 includes a front steel skid plate, providing crucial protection to the vehicle’s undercarriage when navigating uneven terrain. The exterior styling of the 2022 Terrain has been refined, presenting a more muscular and defined appearance. The black trim elements accentuate this rugged aesthetic, and the sharply styled front and rear lights contribute to a more upscale and modern look.
Inside, the 2022 Terrain offers a straightforward yet appealing and spacious cabin. The seats in the test vehicle featured a distinctive perforated dark gray leather upper section complemented by durable cloth sides. Contrasting golden-brown stitching adds a touch of warmth and sophistication, extending to the dashboard and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Subtle imitation carbon fiber trim accents are present on the door panels and sparingly on the passenger side dashboard. The matte gray plastic console and steering wheel hub are practical design choices, effectively minimizing sun glare.
The seats are a standout feature of the 2022 Terrain’s interior, providing excellent support for the hips and lower back while maintaining a comfortable level of firmness, ideal for longer drives. Both front and rear seats offer ample room, comfortably accommodating four adults, and even five passengers for shorter trips.
Image alt text: Close-up detail of the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4’s rear taillights and black trim, emphasizing its modern and upscale styling elements.
The rear seats feature a convenient split-folding design, folding completely flat to expand cargo capacity. Additional storage space is available beneath the cargo floor. As previously mentioned, the rear hatch is power-operated for ease of use.
The optional equipment on the test 2022 Terrain was largely focused on value and included features highly desirable for most buyers. The Pro Safety Plus package, standard on the Denali trim, is available for a reasonable $645 and incorporates lane change alert, side blind-zone alert, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a safety alert seat that subtly vibrates to warn the driver of potential hazards.
The panoramic sunroof with a power shade adds a significant $1,495 to the price, but undeniably enhances the interior ambiance with natural light. An infotainment package priced at $1,180 upgrades the audio system to a premium Bose setup with seven speakers, integrates a navigation system with voice recognition, an 8-inch color touchscreen, and smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A tech package further enhances the vehicle with HD surround vision, front and rear park assist, and a Head-Up Display for $850.
The test vehicle was originally slated to include heated front seats, but due to ongoing chip shortages, this feature was not installed at the factory. However, dealers can add this feature once chip availability improves, and GMC provided a $50 credit in lieu of the missing feature. Despite this omission, the controls for the heated seats are already integrated into the center console.
With all options included, the tested 2022 Terrain AT4 reached a total price of $39,960, remaining notably below the average price of a new vehicle. There are minor interior improvements that could enhance usability. Widening the center console slightly to accommodate a cell phone lying flat and incorporating wireless charging would be welcome additions.
Image alt text: Interior view of the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4 center console, highlighting the need for a wider phone storage area and wireless charging integration.
However, the most unconventional aspect of the interior is the electronic gear selector located on the lower center stack. The horizontal layout and combination of push and pull toggles for gear selection are unusual and may require an adjustment period for some drivers. Park and Neutral are engaged by pushing buttons, while Reverse and Drive require pulling toggles – a design that deviates from conventional gear selectors.
Fuel economy for the all-wheel-drive 2022 Terrain is commendable for a compact SUV. During testing, the vehicle achieved 26.4 mpg in mixed driving conditions (approximately 60% city driving). The EPA estimates for the AWD Terrain are 25 mpg city and 28 mpg highway on regular fuel. The front-wheel-drive model achieves even better fuel economy, reaching up to 30 mpg on the highway.
In conclusion, the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4 is a compelling option for value-conscious families, particularly those seeking a roomy and comfortable SUV with a refined ride. While it faces competition from models like the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50, VW Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Ford Escape, and Subaru Outback, the Terrain distinguishes itself with its focus on ride comfort and rugged AT4 styling.
Image alt text: Close-up on the comfortable and supportive front seats of the 2022 GMC Terrain AT4, emphasizing their ergonomic design and suitability for long drives.
Pros:
- Muscular and appealing aesthetics
- Exceptionally comfortable ride quality
- Adequate acceleration for daily driving
- Standard all-wheel drive on AT4 model
- Selectable terrain modes for varied conditions
- Available panoramic sunroof and premium Bose audio
- Comfortable and spacious seating
- Standard skid plate for underbody protection
- Good standard safety features
Cons:
- No wireless phone charging available
- Heated front seats were not included in test vehicle due to chip shortage
- Center console storage could be wider for phone placement
- Unconventional push/pull gear selector may be confusing for some
2022 GMC Terrain AT4 Specifications:
- Made in: Mexico
- Engine: 1.5-liter turbo I4, 170 hp / 203 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Weight: 3,659 lbs
- Wheelbase: 107.3 in
- Length: 182.3 in
- Cargo: 63.3 cu.ft.
- MPG (EPA est.): 25 city / 28 highway
- MPG (Tested): 26.4 combined
- Base Price: $35,145 (includes delivery)
- Invoice: $33,631
- Test Vehicle Price: $39,960
Source: GMC, www.kbb.com
