2013 GMC Terrain: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2013 GMC Terrain is the arrival of the premium Denali trim. This is a meaningful trim and equipment update rather than a full redesign, with a stronger V6 and updated touchscreen technology as well.
About the 2013 GMC Terrain
1st generation (2010-2017), fourth model year; not a redesign year, but a meaningful powertrain and trim-range update year that adds Denali.
GMC positions the 2013 Terrain as a small SUV with the space, comfort, and features of a larger one. The brochure leans heavily on a quiet cabin, generous rear-seat room, flexible cargo space, and a more upscale interior feel than many compact rivals. Compared with sportier competitors, the Terrain's identity is more about everyday comfort, upright SUV styling, easy family use, and available luxury-style features, culminating in the new Denali.
The 2013 Terrain ranges from the practical SLE-1, with a 7-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, and sliding rear seat, to leather-equipped SLT models with more comfort and convenience features. The new Denali sits at the top with satin-chrome exterior details, perforated leather seating, extra driver-safety alerts, and a power liftgate.
What changed, by category
2013 GMC Terrain specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | AWD / 2WD | 2WD | 2WD / AWD | 2WD / AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 17–20 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 16–22 mpg | 16–22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 24–29 mpg | 24–32 mpg | 23–32 mpg | 23–32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 182–301 hp | 182–301 hp | 182–301 hp | 182–301 hp |
| Torque | 172 lb-ft | 172–272 lb-ft | 172–272 lb-ft | 172–272 lb-ft | 172–272 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 63.9 cu-ft | 63.9 cu-ft | 63.9 cu-ft | 63.9 cu-ft | 63.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9 in | 39.9 in | 39.9 in | 39.9 in | 39.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||||
| SD Card Slot | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| USB Ports | |||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| 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 2013 GMC Terrain?
The biggest change is the new Denali trim at the top of the 2013 Terrain lineup. It adds distinctive satin-chrome styling, a richer interior, a power liftgate, and extra driver-safety alerts.
Does the 2013 GMC Terrain have a different V6 than the 2012 model?
Yes. The 2013 Terrain’s 301-hp 3.6-liter V6 replaces the previous 3.0-liter V6 on V6-equipped trims.
Which GMC Terrain trims changed for 2013?
Denali, SLE-2, and SLT-2 join the lineup for 2013. The previous SLE and SLT names continue as SLE-1 and SLT-1, respectively.
Did the 2013 GMC Terrain get updated infotainment technology?
Yes. The touchscreen interface is updated for 2013, and IntelliLink smartphone integration with Bluetooth audio streaming is standard on SLE-2 and higher trims.
Is the 2013 GMC Terrain a redesign?
No. The 2013 Terrain keeps the same basic body and cabin layout from the first generation. Its changes center on trims, the V6, safety equipment, and touchscreen technology.