“I like the handling of the SUV and it's not too big for someone my size, 5 feet tall.”
2023 GMC Terrain: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2023 GMC Terrain gets a modest mechanical update, led by a revised 1.5-liter turbo engine with 175 horsepower, up from 170. It is not a redesign.
About the 2023 GMC Terrain
2nd generation (2018-2024), one year after the 2022 styling update
GMC presents the Terrain as a premium-leaning compact SUV for everyday commuting, family errands and road trips. Its identity combines a bold, truck-influenced appearance with seating for five, flexible fold-flat cargo space, wireless phone integration and a standard collision-avoidance suite. The range distinguishes itself through clearly defined personalities: straightforward SLE, comfort-focused SLT, adventure-oriented AT4 and technology-rich Denali.
The four-trim range starts with the practical SLE, while the SLT adds leather-appointed seating, an 8-inch touchscreen and a hands-free liftgate. The AT4 pairs standard AWD with a steel skid plate and an off-road driving setting for light adventures. The Denali is the comfort- and technology-focused model, with navigation, Bose audio, wireless charging and a head-up display.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder was revised to produce 175 horsepower, up from 170. The 9-speed automatic transmission carried over.
Safety
Adaptive cruise control became standard on the Denali trim after being optional for 2022.
Chassis and braking
Electronic brake assist was added for quicker, more consistent brake response. The chassis and suspension otherwise carried over.
2023 GMC Terrain specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd w/Overdrive 9T45 | Automatic, 9-Spd w/Overdrive 9T45 | Automatic, 9-Spd w/Overdrive 9T45 | Automatic, 9-Spd w/Overdrive 9T45 |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175 hp | 175 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 63.3 cu-ft | 63.3 cu-ft | 63.3 cu-ft | 63.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.7 in | 39.7 in | 39.7 in | 39.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| SD Card Slot | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2023 GMC Terrain compared with the 2022 model?
The main change is a revised 1.5-liter turbo engine producing 175 horsepower instead of 170. The 2023 Terrain also gains electronic brake assist, and adaptive cruise control becomes standard on the Denali trim.
Was the 2023 GMC Terrain redesigned?
No. The 2023 Terrain remains part of the second generation introduced for 2018 and follows the larger styling update made for 2022. There are no broad exterior, infotainment or suspension changes for 2023.
Do all 2023 GMC Terrain trims have the updated engine?
Yes. Every 2023 Terrain trim—SLE, SLT, AT4 and Denali—uses the revised 175-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
How are the 2023 Terrain AT4 and Denali different?
The AT4 is the light-adventure trim, with standard AWD, a steel skid plate, hill-descent control and an off-road driving setting. The Denali is the premium trim, with standard AWD, a comfort-focused suspension, navigation, Bose audio, wireless charging, a head-up display and additional driver-assistance features.
2023 GMC Terrain Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 GMC Terrain.
4.2
2023 GMC Terrain
(130 reviews)
“The design is sexy I love the big red bold GMC letters in the front. I love how the black leather seats go with the white exterior”
“Keep your foot out if it, it can suck gas quickly. But it's fun to drive in the snow!”