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2019 GMC Terrain Review: Reliable & Comfortable Small SUV With No Serious Issues

Rating: 4.49
Based on 100 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The GMC Terrain, a compact SUV, entered its second generation in 2018. The 2019 model continued this trend. Key trims include SL, SLE, SLT, and Denali. Pricing ranged from around $26,000 to $39,000 when new. Its popularity stems from its stylish design, comfortable interior, and available Denali trim, offering a more premium experience than many competitors. The Terrain offers a blend of practicality and upscale appeal.
The Good

The 2019 GMC Terrain offers a comfortable ride and a stylish design, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, it boasts decent fuel efficiency with the available engines and offers a good amount of cargo space. While not a performance leader, it provides adequate power for daily driving and is reasonably reliable.

The Bad

Some weaknesses of the 2019 GMC Terrain include a somewhat small back seat compared to rivals, and the base engine can feel underpowered. The infotainment system, while functional, isn't the most intuitive. Watch out for potential issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission in some models.

2019 GMC Terrain: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder: 170 horsepower, 203 lb-ft of torque
    • 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder: 252 horsepower, 260 lb-ft of torque
    • 1.6L Turbo-Diesel 4-Cylinder: 137 horsepower, 240 lb-ft of torque
  • Horsepower: 137-252 hp, depending on engine.
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
    • 1.5L Turbo: 26 MPG City / 30 MPG Highway (FWD)
    • 2.0L Turbo: 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway (FWD)
    • 1.6L Diesel: 28 MPG City / 39 MPG Highway (FWD)
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 1.5L Turbo: Around 9.3 seconds
    • 2.0L Turbo: Around 6.8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 1,500 lbs with the 2.0L Turbo engine.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SL: Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless open and start, and a rearview camera.
    • SLE: Adds features like an 8-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control, and available driver-assistance features.
    • SLT: Upgrades to leather upholstery, heated front seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, and chrome exterior accents. Available with advanced safety features.
    • Denali: The top-of-the-line trim includes unique styling cues, premium leather seats, a navigation system, a premium Bose audio system, and advanced safety technologies.

2019 GMC Terrain Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2019
Make GMC
Model Terrain
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In Canada
Manufacturing City SAN LUIS POTOSI
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.5-L Turbocharged Gas/E15 I4
Engine Size 1.5L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 9-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 9-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2019 GMC Terrain Have?

The 2019 GMC Terrain has had some reported problems, though it's generally considered reasonably reliable. Some owners have reported issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, including harsh shifting or hesitation. There have been some recalls related to fuel pump failures that can cause the engine to stall and increase the risk of a crash. Other reported issues include problems with the infotainment system freezing or malfunctioning.

Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the turbocharged engines and the complexity of modern vehicle electronics. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes, is crucial for turbo engine health. It's advisable to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls or service bulletins before purchasing a used 2019 Terrain. Some complaints also cite electrical glitches and issues with the climate control system. While not widespread, these are worth investigating. Thorough pre-purchase inspection is always recommended.

How long will the 2019 GMC Terrain last?

With proper maintenance, a 2019 GMC Terrain can realistically provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-13 years of service. Long-term durability depends heavily on adherence to the recommended maintenance schedule. Potential weaknesses over time include wear and tear on suspension components, potential turbocharger issues (especially without proper oil changes), and the gradual degradation of electronic components. Vehicles driven primarily in harsh climates may experience faster wear on certain parts. Regular inspections can help mitigate these issues.
Positive Owner Reviews
Joey H
I have owned my Terrain for 3 months now, and am absolutely in love with it. Super smooth, great pick up, and I get a lot of complements on both the exterior and interior design. I average 26.3 MPG city and highway combined, which is not bad considering I live in Florida so my AC is never off in the car.
JLG
This is my first suv and I was overwhelmed with the style and performance. I have been purchasing General Motor vehicles for a long time. GMC terrain sle is a outstanding investment. I'm enjoying my retirement and my new GMC Γ°ΕΈβ€˜ΒΆ
Denny
It's much different than the car i had before so it's a bit of a change. Also a lot of new technology has been a little bit of a challenge but the dealership has been very helpful.
Negative Owner Reviews
Mick
My wife had to have this vehicle. It's nothing but a piece of s@#+. The traction control is so pathetic we can't even drive it in the winter. GMC should be ashamed of putting out a vehicle like this. DONT BUY ONE. To many good cars out there.
Airman 46
Have had the 2019 Terrain for 9 months. It will in the shop for the third time with problems. First and second time with motor/transmission surging and what I would call compression braking. Suppose to be fixed with a computer reprogramming. Going in tomorrow for I don’t know. Loud bang under hood engine lite on message decreased engine power. Onstar contacted said to take it in for service. Duh. 3 tome in 9 months 5400 miles.
Angrycustomer
Thrown together garbage car! Brand new and been back to the dealer 5 times going on 6 now!!! Check engine light constantly on! Turbo BS!

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2019 GMC Terrain boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with a standard 7-inch or available 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and available navigation. Entertainment features include a standard six-speaker audio system, with an optional Bose premium sound system available.

Driver-assistance features include a standard rearview camera, with optional features like forward collision alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Safety features include multiple airbags, stability control, and traction control.

Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are generally positive, though specific scores may vary. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also provides safety ratings, which should be consulted for a comprehensive assessment. Higher trims offer additional safety tech like automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. The availability of these features depends on the trim level and selected options.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Ebony Twilight Metallic
Graphite Gray Metallic
Quicksilver Metallic
Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic
Sedona Metallic
Cypress Green Metallic
Pepperdust Metallic
Interior Colors
Jet Black
Medium Ash Gray
Dark Galvanized/Jet Black
Cocoa/Light Ash Gray

2019 GMC Terrain Prices and Market Value

The 2019 GMC Terrain had a starting MSRP of around $26,000, with higher trims like the Denali reaching close to $40,000. Currently, used market prices range from approximately $15,000 to $25,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.

Depreciation is typical for a compact SUV. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, service history, and trim level. Denali models tend to hold their value better due to their upscale features. A clean Carfax report and evidence of regular maintenance will also positively impact resale value.

2019 GMC Terrain Cost of Ownership

The 2019 GMC Terrain is generally considered moderately economical to own. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel costs will vary based on engine choice, with the diesel offering the best economy. Maintenance costs are typical, with routine servicing required. Repair costs can be higher if complex components like the turbocharger or transmission need attention. Long-term ownership costs are reasonable if the vehicle is well-maintained and major repairs are avoided.

2019 GMC Terrain Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 28 gallons
City Mileage 26 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 30 miles/gallon

2019 GMC Terrain Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2019 GMC Terrain Recalls & Defects

Seats
Recall date 2019-03-07
Recall no. 19v184000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain Vehicles. THE Rear-Right Seat MAY Have Insufficient Welds ON THE Head-Restraint Bracket.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Insufficient Welds MAY Result IN AN Increased Risk OF Injury FOR AN Occupant Seated IN THE Rear-Right Position.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Rear-Right Seatback Frame, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 15, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N192209550.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper
Recall date 2018-08-30
Recall no. 18v576000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV Vehicles, GMC Terrain Vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal Vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional Vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles. THE Rear Brake Caliper Pistons MAY Have AN Insufficient Coating Causing GAS Pockets TO Form, Potentially Reducing Rear Brake Performance.
Consequence A Reduction OF Braking Performance CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Bleed THE Vehicle's Brake System, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 11, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 18279.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date 2020-10-29
Recall no. 20v668000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick Lacrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac Xt4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 Vehicles. THE Start/Stop Accumulator Endcap MAY Have Missing Bolts.
Consequence Missing Bolts ON THE Start-Stop Accumulator Endcap Could Result IN A Transmission OIL Leak and MAY Progress TO A Loss OF Propulsion, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. A Transmission Fluid Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Increase THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Start-Stop Transmission Accumulator and Replace IT IF ANY Bolts ARE Missing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 15, 2020. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer Service AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202313440.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2019 GMC Terrain Insurance

Insurance for a 2019 GMC Terrain is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2019 GMC Terrain Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2019 GMC Terrain competes with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Ford Escape. In terms of performance, the RAV4 and CX-5 offer more engaging driving dynamics. The CR-V and RAV4 often score higher in reliability ratings. Feature-wise, the Terrain holds its own, especially in the Denali trim, offering a more luxurious experience than some rivals.

Price-wise, it's generally competitive. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are often considered better all-around choices due to their stronger reliability and resale value. The Mazda CX-5 is a good alternative for those prioritizing driving enjoyment. The Ford Escape provides a range of engine options and technology. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities; the Terrain shines if upscale styling and features are paramount, but alternatives offer advantages in other areas.

Ranks #1292 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0β˜…)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0β˜…)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0β˜…)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0β˜…)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0β˜…)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0β˜…)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0β˜…)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0β˜…)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0β˜…)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0β˜…)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0β˜…)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0β˜…)
1292 2019 GMC Terrain (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2019 GMC Terrain a Good Wagon?

The 2019 GMC Terrain is a decent choice for those seeking a stylish and comfortable compact SUV, particularly if you appreciate the Denali trim's upscale features. It's worth buying used if you find a well-maintained example with a clean history and at a competitive price. Consider a model with the 2.0L turbo engine for better performance. However, if reliability and resale value are top priorities, the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 might be better alternatives. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended, regardless of trim level.

2019 GMC Terrain Owner Reviews

4.49
Overall rating
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Victor Morales on April 26, 2024

My Work horse.

I brought this truck in 2019. I kept taking it back to the dealership to get tweaked several times. Once it was figured out, never got any problems ever again. A little weak on the power side, but, other than that, its a magnificent vehicle. A total work horse. Great on gas. It is totally worth it.

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Mick on December 4, 2023

Piece of s@#+

My wife had to have this vehicle. It's nothing but a piece of s@#+. The traction control is so pathetic we can't even drive it in the winter. GMC should be ashamed of putting out a vehicle like this. DONT BUY ONE. To many good cars out there.

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Hayley on August 11, 2023

DO NOT BUY!

I had the 2019 GMC TERRAIN SLT. Obviously I fell in love with it because of the stylish look and how smoothly it drove. In December of 2022 I had my first accident. With the amount of force it took to rip every single thing off underneath mycar and the impact, the collision center was shocked the air bags did not deploy. Fast forward 3 months of getting it fixed, it was 14k in damages. May of 2023 a driver was not paying attention and completely totaled it out. Everywhere where there was an air bag popped open but the air bags did NOT deploy instead caused my car to fill with smoke. However the accident was so bad my kid's airbags in their carseats did their job. This is a GMC issue they fail to put a recall on. I QUICKLY fell out of love with my car. It failed to do its job to protect me and my kid's. I will NEVER buy a terrain EVER AGAIN!

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Joey H on December 11, 2022

Love love LOVE

I have owned my Terrain for 3 months now, and am absolutely in love with it. Super smooth, great pick up, and I get a lot of complements on both the exterior and interior design. I average 26.3 MPG city and highway combined, which is not bad considering I live in Florida so my AC is never off in the car.

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JLG on May 14, 2022

Sharp Vehicle

This is my first suv and I was overwhelmed with the style and performance. I have been purchasing General Motor vehicles for a long time. GMC terrain sle is a outstanding investment. I'm enjoying my retirement and my new GMC Γ°ΕΈβ€˜ΒΆ

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Miriam F on April 23, 2021

Beautiful!

This car is wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy better than i thought it would be! It is beautiful, tinted and very comfortable!!! i wont ie i look good riding in my baby

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KLamb on March 27, 2021

Very nice little SUV

Been really enjoying it! It’s actually very comfortable car and reliable! Ride is smooth and quite! Efficient fuel economy is pretty good! I love it!

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Denny on March 15, 2021

it's what i was looking for

It's much different than the car i had before so it's a bit of a change. Also a lot of new technology has been a little bit of a challenge but the dealership has been very helpful.

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Ron205 on March 13, 2021

great looking vehicle.

This car met all my mother's need. The right size and all the bells and whistles she needs. Just the right size to meet all of her needs. She's 78 years old.

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Jrzygrl on January 9, 2021

Love this car.

I owned a Yukon years ago. I love GMC vehicles. I love this Terrain like I loved my Yukon. Stylish, comfortable and fuel efficient, this car is great

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.