2027 GMC Terrain: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2027 GMC Terrain is an 8-speed automatic for the front-wheel-drive Elevation, making the 1.5-liter turbo engine and 8-speed automatic common across the lineup. Otherwise, this is a light update rather than a redesign.
About the 2027 GMC Terrain
3rd generation (2025-present), third model year; minor powertrain update year and second year with the full Elevation, AT4, and Denali range
GMC positions the Terrain as its compact two-row SUV for everyday commuting, family errands, and weekend travel, with a more upright, truck-inspired appearance than many compact crossovers. Its core strengths are a roomy five-seat cabin, flexible folding rear seats, a large standard touchscreen and digital instrument display, and an extensive standard driver-assistance suite. The range splits into everyday Elevation, trail-focused AT4, and comfort-focused Denali versions.
The Elevation is the road-focused everyday model, with a 15-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a broad driver-assistance suite. The AT4 adds AWD, a lifted off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, and a low-speed Terrain Mode for rougher roads. The Denali emphasizes comfort with leather-appointed seating, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, upgraded camera views, and a comfort-tuned suspension.
What changed, by category
2027 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 |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive & Driver Shift Control | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive & Driver Shift Control | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive & Driver Shift Control |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 800 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 63.5 cu-ft | 63.5 cu-ft | 63.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.7 in | 39.7 in | 39.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2027 GMC Terrain?
The biggest change is the front-wheel-drive Elevation's 8-speed automatic. This makes the 1.5-liter turbo engine and 8-speed automatic the common powertrain across the 2027 Terrain range.
Is the 2027 GMC Terrain redesigned?
No, the 2027 GMC Terrain is not redesigned. It continues the third-generation design introduced for 2025 and receives a smaller powertrain update.
Does every 2027 GMC Terrain have an 8-speed automatic?
Yes, every 2027 GMC Terrain has an 8-speed automatic paired with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The front-wheel-drive Elevation is the version that gains this transmission for 2027.
What changed on the 2027 Terrain AT4 and Denali?
The AT4 and Denali carry over mechanically, but their roof rails change from standard to optional equipment for 2027. No other significant equipment updates were verified for these two trims.
Is the 2027 GMC Terrain a meaningful upgrade over the 2026 model?
The 2027 update matters most for a front-wheel-drive Elevation because it gains the 8-speed automatic. Changes are modest for the AWD Elevation, AT4, and Denali, although roof rails become optional rather than standard on AT4 and Denali.