Tech Spec: 2018 GMC Terrain

Nov. 1, 2018
GMC redesigned its premium compact SUV for the 2018 model year. The all-new SUV features the widest range of choices yet, with three all-new available turbocharged propulsion systems, including a new turbo-diesel. Two new efficiency-enhancing nine-speed automatic transmissions are matched with the gas engines.

GMC redesigned its premium compact SUV for the 2018 model year. The all-new SUV features the widest range of choices yet, with three all-new available turbocharged propulsion systems, including a new turbo-diesel. Two new efficiency-enhancing nine-speed automatic transmissions are matched with the gas engines.

The new Terrain’s exterior features stronger, sharper and more sculpted elements such as the grille and lighting features. The all-new Terrain Denali features its signature chrome grille along with Denali-specific accents including body-color fascias and lower trim, plus chrome roof rails, door handles, side mirror caps and body-side molding. Additionally, LED headlamps and 19-inch ultra-bright machined aluminum wheels are standard on the Denali.

All other models feature signature LED daytime running lamps and tail lamps. Bi-functional HID headlamps are standard on SL, SLE and SLT. Additionally, 17-inch wheels are standard on SL and SLE, with 18-inch wheels available on SL and SLE, and standard on SLT.

A range of three all-new turbocharged engines, includes an all-new 1.6L turbodiesel. The new 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged gas engines are matched with two unique nine-speed automatic transmissions, with the 2.0L turbo engine offering stronger acceleration and a higher degree of performance than its 1.5L counterpart.

GMC’s new Electronic Precision Shift enables more storage room in the center console by replacing the conventional transmission shifter with electronically controlled gear selection consisting of intuitive push buttons and pull triggers.

The Terrain comes standard with GMC’s driver-controllable Traction Select system, which has choices for different driving conditions. Elements such as the throttle responses are optimized for the selected driving mode. AWD models include a FWD mode that disconnects the AWD system to minimize drag and optimize fuel economy, while the AWD mode offers all the benefits of an active AWD system.

Elements such as authentic aluminum trim, soft-touch materials on the instrument panel and doors and standard active noise cancellation are premium features seamlessly integrated into the interior design for a luxurious customer experience.

The Terrain Denali features a new interior with a unique trim tint color and Denali-specific logos and piping on the front seats. Denali customers will benefit from additional standard features, including a heated steering wheel, navigation, Bose premium 7-speaker sound system and a hands-free programmable power liftgate.

GMC keeps passengers connected with 7- and available 8-inch-diagonal infotainment systems, featuring compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and a standard OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot that can accommodate up to seven mobile devices. Owners can also manage their vehicles remotely with the myGMC mobile app via their compatible smartphones.

Every new Terrain comes standard with five years of the OnStar Basic Plan at no additional cost. Among other benefits, this connectivity plan features OnStar Smart Driver, an opt-in service designed to help GMC owners maximize their vehicle’s overall performance, reduce wear and tear, monitor fuel efficiency and become better drivers.

An expanded range of available active safety technologies is designed to enhance driver awareness and even help make it easier to park and maneuver in low-speed situations. The features include radar- and camera-based adaptive technologies that can provide alerts to potential crash threats, allowing the driver to react and make changes to potentially avoid them, including: new surround vision; new forward collision alert with following distance indicator; new low-speed forward automatic braking; new lane keep assist with lane departure warning; lane change alert with side blind zone alert; rear cross traffic alert and new safety alert seat.

The new Terrain also features GMC’s new Rear Seat Reminder and Teen Driver. Rear Seat Reminder alerts drivers to check the back seat as they exit their vehicles under certain circumstances, while Teen Driver allows parents to set controls and review an in-vehicle report card in order to help encourage better driving habits, even when adults are not in the vehicle.

The 2018 Terrain is offered in SL, SLE, SLT and Denali models. An entry-level 2018 Terrain SL with FWD and a 1.5L turbo engine starts at just over $26,000. An upgraded Terrain SLT with AWD and a 1.6L turbo diesel engine starts at just over $35,000. A top-of-the-line Terrain Denali with AWD, a 2.0L turbo engine, premium paint, a Driver Alert Package II (with IntelliBeam headlamps, Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning and Safety Alert Seat), Advanced Safety Package (Automatic Park Assist and Surround Vision), Comfort Package (wireless charging and heated rear seats), Skyscape sunroof, front and rear splash guards and rear seat infotainment system with DVD player carries a price tag of about $44,000.

Servicing the 2018 GMC Terrain

When the Terrain’s “Change Engine Oil Soon” message displays, the engine oil and filter should be changed within the next 600 miles (1,000 km). If driven under the best conditions, the engine oil life system may not indicate the need for vehicle service for up to a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and the oil life system must be reset.

On vehicles with diesel engines, it is recommended to drain the diesel fuel filter of water when the oil is changed or when the “Water in Fuel Contact Service” message displays.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE - NORMAL

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km):

  • Rotate tires.
  • Check engine oil level and oil life percentage. If needed, change engine oil and filter, and reset oil life system.
  • Check engine oil coolant level.
  • Check windshield washer fluid level.
  • Visually inspect windshield wiper blades for wear, cracking or contamination. Replace worn or damaged wiper blades.
  • Check tire inflation pressures.
  • Inspect tire wear.
  • Visually check for fluid leaks.
  • Inspect engine air cleaner filter.
  • Inspect brake system.
  • Visually inspect steering, suspension and chassis components for damaged, loose or missing parts or signs of wear.
  • Check restraint system components.
  • Visually inspect fuel system for damage or leaks.
  • Visually inspect exhaust system and nearby heat shields for loose or damaged parts.
  • Lubricate body components.
  • Check starter switch.
  • Check parking brake and automatic transmission park mechanism.
  • Check accelerator pedal for damage, high effort or binding. Replace, if needed.
  • Visually inspect gas strut for signs of wear, cracks or other damage. Check the hold-open ability of the strut. If the hold-open ability is low, service the gas strut.
  • Check tire sealant expiration date, if equipped.
  • Inspect sunroof track and seal, if equipped.

Every 22,500 miles (36,000 km) or every two years:

  • Replace passenger compartment air filter.

Every two years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km):

  • Replace fuel filter (diesel engine only).

Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km):

  • Visually inspect all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper attachment, connection, routing and condition.

Every four years or 45,000 miles (72,000 km):

  • Replace engine air cleaner filter.

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km):

  • Replace spark plugs; inspect spark plug wires.

Every five years:

  • Replace brake fluid

Every five years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km):

  • Drain and fill engine cooling system.

Every 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km):

  • Visually inspect accessory drive belts.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE – SEVERE

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km):

  • Rotate tires.
  • Check engine oil level and oil life percentage. If needed, change engine oil and filter, and reset oil life system.
  • Check engine oil coolant level.
  • Check windshield washer fluid level.
  • Visually inspect windshield wiper blades for wear, cracking or contamination. Replace worn or damaged wiper blades.
  • Check tire inflation pressures.
  • Inspect tire wear.
  • Visually check for fluid leaks.
  • Inspect engine air cleaner filter.
  • Inspect brake system.
  • Visually inspect steering, suspension and chassis components for damaged, loose or missing parts or signs of wear.
  • Check restraint system components.
  • Visually inspect fuel system for damage or leaks.
  • Visually inspect exhaust system and nearby heat shields for loose or damaged parts.
  • Lubricate body components.
  • Check starter switch.
  • Check parking brake and automatic transmission park mechanism.
  • Check accelerator pedal for damage, high effort or binding. Replace, if needed.
  • Visually inspect gas strut for signs of wear, cracks or other damage. Check the hold-open ability of the strut. If the hold-open ability is low, service the gas strut.
  • Check tire sealant expiration date, if equipped.
  • Inspect sunroof track and seal, if equipped.

Every two years or 22,500 miles (36,000 km):

  • Replace passenger compartment air filter.

Every two years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km):

  • Replace fuel filter (diesel engine only).

Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km):

  • Visually check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper attachment, connection, routing and condition.
  • Change automatic transmission fluid.

Every four years or 45,000 miles (72,000 km):

  • Replace engine air cleaner filter.

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km):

  • Replace spark plugs; inspect spark plug wires.

Every five years:

  • Replace brake fluid.

Every five years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km):

  • Drain and fill engine cooling system.

Every 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km):

  • Visually inspect accessory drive belts.

Fluid and Capacities

Engine Oil: SAE 0W-20 engine oil meeting dexos1 Gen 2 requirements (1.5L gasoline engine); SAE 5W-30 engine oil meeting dexos1 Gen 2 requirements (2.0L gasoline engine); SAE 5W-30 engine oil meeting dexos2 requirements (1.6L diesel engine); capacity with filter is 5.3 quarts (5.0 liters) – 1.5L AWD, 1.6L, 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) – 1.5L FWD, 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) – 2.0L AWD, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) – 2.0L FWD Coolant: Dex-Cool; capacity is 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) – 1.5L, 7.9 quarts (7.5 liters) – 1.6L, 8.2 quarts (7.8 liters) – 2.0L Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron-VI Diesel Exhaust Fluid: DEF meeting ISO 2241-1 or displays the API Diesel Exhaust Fluid certification mark Brake Fluid: DOT 3