2016 GMC Terrain Gets Updated Look

(RTTNews) - General Motors Co. (GM) introduced an updated version of the GMC Terrain SUV for 2016. The vehicle will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show, which begins on April 3.

GM said that the revised Terrain model lineup now comprises the SL, SLE-1 and SLE-2, SLT and Denali models. The 2016 Terrain goes on sale this fall. GM will announce the pricing later.

The 2016 Terrain lineup features new front and rear fascias with C-shaped lower chrome trim, new grille designs, new power dome hood design, light-emitting diode or LED daytime running lamps on uplevel models, and additional updates. New color options include white frost tricoat and crimson red tintcoat.

GM is offering side blind zone alert and rear cross traffic alert on the SLE and SLT models for the first time. Previously, this was available only on Denali. New, chrome-accented grille designs will be featured on SLE, SLT and Denali - including specific tri-segment grille texture on Denali.

New 18-inch aluminum wheel will be available on non-Denali models, while a new 19-inch aluminum wheel design is being offered on Denali models.

GM noted that the standard Ecotec 2.4 liter direct-injected engine delivers an EPA-estimated 32 mpg on the highway for front wheel drive models.

A more powerful, direct-injected 3.6 liter V-6 is also available, which delivers 301 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 engine also enables a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2016 Terrain will seat five people, with the all-wheel drive being offered on SLE, SLT and Denali models.

The vehicle's interior, with the GM-exclusive MultiFlex sliding rear seat, offers 31.6 cubic feet or 894 liters of cargo space behind the rear seat and 63.9 cubic feet or 1,809 liters with the rear seat folded.

GM said that the power-adjustable front passenger seat is now being offered on SLT, previously it was available only on Denali. However, the dual-zone climate control, common in small SUVs, is not available. The CD player in the center controls has been replaced with a small storage shelf.

GM noted that Terrain had its best year ever in 2014, with a 5.5 percent increase in sales to 105,016 units. Continuing the momentum into this year, Terrain enjoyed its best-ever January and February sales.

Terrain was introduced as a 2010 model in 2009 and is General Motors' second-best selling vehicle, after Sierra. Terrain currently holds 5 percent of the U.S. compact SUV market.

The compact SUV market increased 17.4 percent in 2014 and accounted for 15.7 percent of the total U.S. market, overtaking midsize cars for the first time as the auto industry's largest vehicle segment.