The Lowdown on the Upcoming 2025 GMC Terrain

There’s been plenty of buzz lately about GMC’s plans for the next-gen 2025 GMC Terrain. Any news about new models in the compact crossover segment tends to draw attention from SUV shoppers. Here’s what’s known so far about the 2025 GMC Terrain, based on the teasers GMC has released, along with some educated speculation on what updates it may bring.

Teaser Photos and Design Preview

GMC released some shadowy teaser photos and a short video giving us our first peek at the design of the 2025 GMC Terrain. While it’s hard to make out many specifics, a few things seem clear. The front end will feature GMC’s signature “power dome” hood design and a larger, bolder grille compared to the current model. The headlights appear to have a sleeker, more angular shape that follows GMC’s new design language.

From the side profile view, the 2025 GMC Terrain seems to have a more rugged, upright stance compared to the sleeker look of the outgoing model. The roofline looks more arched and the rear quarter panels more defined. The wheel arches also seem beefier, hinting at some improved off-road chops. The rear end is obscured in the teasers, but it looks like the taillights will wrap around the tailgate in a stylish new configuration.

The 2025 GMC Terrain is shaping up to have a bolder, more muscular and rugged appearance that will help it stand out in the busy compact SUV segment. GMC seems to be positioning it as more of an adventure-ready companion rather than just an urban runabout. The full production design should arrive later this year, and it’s shaping up to be worth the wait.

Powertrain Upgrades Expected

While GMC hasn’t spilled any official details, we can make some educated guesses about what will power the 2025 GMC Terrain. The current 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 237 horsepower will likely be replaced. A turbocharged 2.0L four-pot with more oomph around the 250-260 hp range seems a safe bet.

There’s also a good chance the 2025 GMC Terrain will offer a small turbocharged three-cylinder engine on base models to boost fuel efficiency. And a plug-in hybrid variant using a three-cylinder gas engine paired with an electric motor is almost a sure thing considering how popular those powertrains are becoming in the segment.

As for transmissions, a nine-speed automatic is probable across gas engine variants, while the hybrid would likely feature an e-CVT. Standard front-wheel drive and available intelligent all-wheel drive should also return. Overall, expect more power and better fuel economy throughout the 2025 GMC Terrain’s revamped powertrain offerings.

2025 GMC Terrain New Tech and Luxury Features

No modern vehicle refresh would be complete without an infotainment system upgrade. The 2025 GMC Terrain will almost definitely move to GMC’s latest IntelliLink touchscreen interface, likely an 8 or 10-inch diagonal display. Expect the latest version of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to be supported.

Advanced driver assist features will also see improvements. Standard safety tech will include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and more. Options may include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automatic parallel and perpendicular parking assist and more.

Higher trim levels of the 2025 GMC Terrain should offer niceties like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless device charging, and a premium Bose audio system. Advanced connectivity with onboard WiFi may also be on the menu. Ride comfort should see enhancements too from re-tuned shocks and springs.

Pricing, Competition and Release Date

Pricing for the 2025 GMC Terrain will likely start in the $26k-$28k range for a base front-drive model, with an as-tested price reaching the low-$30k bracket. That positions it competitively against other compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue.

The redesigned 2025 GMC Terrain is expected to debut in full this fall, with sales starting early next year. That timing should put it in dealerships right alongside all-new versions of the CR-V, RAV4 and Escape, which are debuting around the same time.

With its bold new look, upgraded powertrains and features, the 2025 GMC Terrain aims to push GMC further ahead in the hotly contested compact SUV segment. Based on the early teasers, it looks like GMC may have another winner on its hands.

Final Thought

The 2025 GMC Terrain is shaping up to be an exciting refresh of GMC’s popular compact SUV. With bolder styling inside and out, plus more power and tech, it should have no problem competing against new offerings from Honda, Toyota and Ford. It’s a model worth watching closely as more details emerge.

FAQ

Will there be any new colors?

Rumors point to GMC introducing a few new exterior paint shades on the 2025 Terrain, possibly a bolder blue or green. Nothing is confirmed yet, but refreshing the color palette would fit GMC’s pattern with recent redesigns, so more vibrant options wouldn’t be a surprise.

What about cargo and towing capacity?

The current Terrain offers decent cargo and towing capability for its class, and the 2025 model should land in a similar range. Expect around 30 cubic feet of max cargo space behind the first row, with towing capacity likely in the 3,500 to 4,000 pound ballpark, respectable for light trailers and outdoor gear.

Will the third row seat option return?

Some current Terrain trims offer an optional third row, though legroom back there is famously tight, more of an emergency seat than a regular one. Word is the 2025 model may drop the third row in favor of extra cargo space, a trade-off most buyers likely won’t mind.

Any new driver-assist tech features?

GM will almost certainly load the 2025 Terrain with its latest driver-assist tech. Upgraded adaptive cruise control that handles stop-and-go traffic better would be a welcome addition, though the Super Cruise system may be out of reach at this price point. Enhanced blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking are safe bets to become standard.

What about off-road upgrades?

The Terrain has never been a hardcore trail vehicle, but reports suggest GMC wants to sharpen its light off-road chops. Expect tweaked all-wheel drive calibration, extra ground clearance, and possibly skid plates as options. A rear locker or low-range transfer case is probably a stretch, but beefier tires and better traction control would go a long way.