2012 GMC Terrain: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 GMC Terrain is a new standard 7-inch touchscreen across the lineup. This is otherwise a light update, with added connectivity, safety equipment, and E85 fuel compatibility rather than a redesign.
About the 2012 GMC Terrain
1st generation (2010-2017), third model year before the later refresh years.
GMC positions the Terrain as a smaller SUV that still feels substantial and useful. The brand leans on bold, squared-off styling, generous rear-seat space, a sliding back seat for cargo flexibility, and everyday technology that is easy to use. In plain terms, the Terrain is aimed at shoppers who want a compact crossover footprint with a more upright, truck-flavored look and a more premium feel than many mainstream rivals.
The 2012 Terrain comes in the straightforward SLE and more upscale SLT trim families. SLE focuses on practical features such as a sliding and reclining rear seat, rearview camera, and touchscreen, while SLT adds leather seating, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a Pioneer audio system.
What changed, by category
2012 GMC Terrain specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 17–22 mpg | 17–22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24–32 mpg | 24–32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 182–264 hp | 182–264 hp |
| Torque | 172–222 lb-ft | 172–222 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 63.9 cu-ft | 63.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 in | 39.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 GMC Terrain?
The biggest change is a standard 7-inch touchscreen across the 2012 Terrain lineup. Navigation and Bluetooth phone connectivity also become standard.
Did the 2012 GMC Terrain receive a redesign?
No, the 2012 GMC Terrain did not receive a redesign. It keeps the first-generation body and chassis, with the year's changes focused on equipment and fuel compatibility.
How does the 2012 GMC Terrain differ from the 2011 model?
The 2012 Terrain adds a standard 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and blind-zone mirrors across the lineup. Its four-cylinder engine also gains E85 FlexFuel capability, while the SLT-2 receives a new optional crash-avoidance package.
Did the 2012 GMC Terrain's engine change?
The standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder gains E85 FlexFuel compatibility for 2012. The 3.0-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission carry over.
What safety features were added to the 2012 GMC Terrain?
Blind-zone mirrors become standard on every 2012 Terrain. The SLT-2 also gains an optional package combining forward collision alert with lane departure warning.