GMC Terrain Fuel Economy Facts

Navigating the world of compact SUVs often brings a crucial question to the forefront: how fuel-efficient is it? For many drivers, understanding the miles per gallon (MPG) of their vehicle is key to managing daily expenses and planning long journeys. If you're considering a GMC Terrain, or already own one, you're likely curious about its fuel economy. This comprehensive guide will dive into the GMC Terrain Fuel Economy Facts, providing clear insights and practical tips to help you get the most out of every tank.

Unpacking GMC Terrain Fuel Economy Facts

The GMC Terrain, a popular compact SUV, is known for balancing rugged styling with urban practicality. Its fuel efficiency is a significant factor for many potential buyers and current owners. Generally, recent GMC Terrain models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, designed to offer a blend of performance and economy.

For the 2025 GMC Terrain, the front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration boasts an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on the highway, and 27 MPG combined. If you opt for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, you can expect slightly lower figures, with an EPA-estimated 24 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, and 25 MPG combined.

Looking at the 2024 GMC Terrain, the 1.5L turbo engine in FWD (SLE & SLT trims) achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG city, 29 MPG highway, and 26 MPG combined. The AWD versions across all trims (SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali) are rated at an EPA-estimated 23 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, and 25 MPG combined. Similarly, the 2023 GMC Terrain with FWD (SLE and SLT) offers 24 MPG city, 29 MPG highway, and 26 MPG combined. AWD models for 2023 (AT4 and Denali) are rated at 24 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, and 26 MPG combined.

It's worth noting that earlier models, like the 2020 GMC Terrain, also offered a 2.0L turbocharged engine option. This more powerful engine typically resulted in lower MPG figures, such as 22 city/28 highway MPG for FWD and 21 city/26 highway MPG for AWD. For future models, there's even talk of a 2026 GMC Terrain potentially offering a 2.5L hybrid system, aiming for an impressive 38 MPG combined.

Factors Influencing Your GMC Terrain's MPG

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, your actual GMC Terrain gas mileage can vary significantly. Why? Because several factors come into play that can either boost or diminish your fuel efficiency. Understanding these can empower you to make more informed choices on the road.

Engine and Drivetrain Configuration

As seen above, the engine size and drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD) have a direct impact. Generally, smaller engines tend to be more fuel-efficient, and FWD vehicles typically achieve slightly better MPG than their AWD counterparts due to less weight and fewer moving parts.

Driving Habits

Are you an aggressive driver, or do you prefer a smoother ride?

• Acceleration and Braking: Rapid acceleration and sudden braking consume more fuel than gentle, gradual movements.
• Speed: Fuel efficiency tends to decrease significantly at higher speeds (typically above 60-65 mph).
• Idling: Letting your engine idle for extended periods, such as waiting in a drive-thru, wastes fuel. Many modern Terrains feature an Automatic Stop/Start system to mitigate this by turning off the engine when the vehicle is stopped.

Vehicle Maintenance

A well-maintained vehicle is a more efficient vehicle.

• Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel.
• Oil Changes: Regular oil changes with the correct type of oil ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
• Air Filters: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, reducing performance and fuel economy.

External Factors

Sometimes, it's not you, it's the environment.

• Cargo Weight: The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it needs to move. Unnecessary items in your trunk or cabin can add up.
• Aerodynamics: Roof racks, cargo carriers, or even open windows at highway speeds can create drag, reducing efficiency.
• Terrain and Climate: Driving uphill or in extreme cold weather can decrease your MPG.

Practical Tips to Maximize Your GMC Terrain's Fuel Efficiency

Want to squeeze every possible mile out of your GMC Terrain's fuel economy? Here are some actionable steps you can take:

• Maintain Your Terrain Regularly: Stick to your GMC Terrain's recommended service schedule. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements. Proper maintenance ensures your engine operates at peak efficiency.
• Check Tire Pressure Often: Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month, or before long trips, and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended PSI.
• Practice Smooth Driving: Accelerate gently, anticipate stops, and avoid sudden braking. Think of it as driving with an egg under your foot – smooth and steady wins the MPG race.
• Reduce Unnecessary Weight: Remove any heavy items from your vehicle that you don't need for your daily commute or errands. Every pound counts!
• Limit Idling: If you're going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds, it's often more fuel-efficient to turn off your engine, especially if your Terrain doesn't have an automatic start/stop system.
• Use Cruise Control on Highways: Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway with cruise control can prevent unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to better fuel economy.
• Plan Your Routes: Combine errands into a single trip to reduce cold starts and minimize driving distance. Utilize navigation apps to find the most efficient routes, avoiding heavy traffic.
• Utilize Traction Select System (AWD Models): If your AWD Terrain has a Traction Select System, you can often switch to FWD mode for everyday driving conditions to conserve fuel by mechanically disconnecting the rear axle.

Conclusion

The GMC Terrain offers competitive fuel economy for a compact SUV, especially with its most common 1.5L turbocharged engine. While EPA estimates provide a solid benchmark, remember that your driving habits and vehicle maintenance play significant roles in your real-world GMC Terrain Fuel Economy Facts. By adopting smart driving practices and keeping your Terrain well-maintained, you can significantly improve your MPG and save money at the pump.

What are your experiences with GMC Terrain fuel economy? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions About GMC Terrain Fuel Economy

Q1: Is the GMC Terrain considered good on gas?

A1: Yes, for a compact SUV, the GMC Terrain offers competitive gas mileage. Recent models with the 1.5L turbocharged engine typically achieve EPA-estimated combined MPG ratings in the mid-20s, which is respectable for its class.

Q2: Does the GMC Terrain require premium gas?

A2: No, the GMC Terrain runs perfectly on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). There's no requirement for premium fuel, which helps keep running costs down.

Q3: How much does AWD affect GMC Terrain's fuel economy?

A3: Opting for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) typically results in a slight decrease in fuel economy compared to Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models. For example, recent FWD models might get 26-27 MPG combined, while AWD models are usually around 25 MPG combined. The difference is often minimal but exists due to the added weight and mechanical drag of the AWD system.

Q4: What is the fuel tank capacity of a GMC Terrain?

A4: The fuel tank capacity of the GMC Terrain varies slightly by drivetrain. FWD models typically have a 14.8-gallon or 14.9-gallon fuel tank, while AWD models often have a slightly larger 15.6-gallon tank. This larger tank in AWD models helps maintain a similar overall driving range despite slightly lower MPG.