GMC is giving the Terrain a personality reboot for 2026, with new trims, a more dramatic interior, and a focus on both ruggedness and refinement. If you’ve been waiting for the Terrain to feel less like a dressed-up Equinox and more like its own thing, the wait is finally over. Let’s dig into the expected features on the 2026 GMC Terrain.
Key Takeaways
- New AT4 and Denali trims give the Terrain more identity for 2026.
- All trims use the same engine, with FWD CVT or AWD eight-speed automatic transmission.
- The AT4 offers rugged looks and a plush ride, while the Denali has more of a luxe focus.
- The 2026 Terrain is out now!
What’s New for 2026?
The biggest news is that GMC is probably adding two new trims to the lineup: the off-road-flavored AT4 and a properly premium Denali. The AT4 brings slightly more ride height, all-terrain tires, underbody protection, and those signature red recovery hooks. It's not a rock crawler, but it's aimed at light trail duty and gravel-road confidence.
Meanwhile, the Denali should finally act like a range-topping trim, offering standard heated rear seats, a suspension tuned for comfort, and 19-inch wheels. In other words, it’s not just cosmetic anymore.
Pricing and Trims for the 2026 GMC Terrain
Pricing for the 2026 Terrain will start at $31,295 and top out at $42,495 for the Denali AWD. Here’s how things break down
- Elevation FWD: $31,295
- Elevation AWD: $33,295
- AT4 AWD: $39,995
- Denali AWD: $42,495
Unless you’re looking for the added traction of AWD or have dreams of light off-roading, the base Elevation trim is actually a solid buy, and the price is nice!
What’s Under the Hood in the 2026 GMC Terrain?
Under the hood, nothing changes for 2026. All trims will stick with the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, making 175 hp. Four-wheel drive models get a CVT, while all-wheel drive versions switch to an eight-speed automatic.
The AT4’s chunkier tires soften the ride, while the Denali uses a more advanced suspension setup to keep things comfortable despite its larger 20-inch wheels.
2026 GMC Terrain Towing, Payload, and Mileage Specs
Max towing is modest but on par with other competitors. All-wheel drive models can handle up to 1,500 pounds, while four-wheel drive versions are limited to 800 pounds.
EPA numbers for the 2026 model haven’t dropped yet, but the 2025 version gives us a ballpark:
- FWD: 26 mpg city/28 mpg highway
- AWD: 24 mpg city/28 mpg highway
Interior Space in Creature Comforts in the 2026 GMC Terrain
This is where the Terrain makes its biggest impression for 2026. Every model will get a giant 15-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, plus a new 11-inch digital gauge display. Heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start are standard across the board.
It will run GM’s latest Google-based software, complete with Google Maps navigation and 5G connectivity. You can download apps directly onto the screen, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. It’s slick, responsive, and makes the old interface feel ancient by comparison.
It will run GM’s latest Google-based software, complete with Google Maps navigation and 5G connectivity. You can download apps directly onto the screen, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. It’s slick, responsive, and makes the old interface feel ancient by comparison.
Should You Wait for the 2026 GMC Terrain?
If you’ve been eyeing the Terrain but felt like it needed a little more personality, 2026 might finally be the year to pull the trigger. The new AT4 adds trail-ready style without going overboard, and the Denali finally feels like a proper top-tier trim with real comfort upgrades.
That said, if you’re just looking for a solid compact SUV with plenty of features and good everyday drivability, the Elevation AWD still hits the sweet spot. It’s in our showroom now, so come by today to experience the trims for yourself!