2026 GMC Terrain near Morganton, NC
The 2026 GMC Terrain introduces new design options, advanced trim levels, and refined engineering specifications designed for precision and utility. This compact SUV is now available in AT4 and Denali trims, broadening its lineup with increased capability and premium detailing. Denali-exclusive exterior colors, Downpour Metallic and Glacier White Tricoat, enhance styling flexibility. With its turbocharged powertrain, multiple suspension systems, and carefully measured dimensions, the 2026 GMC Terrain delivers consistent performance across both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
Cabin Measurements and Comfort
Interior space has been designed to optimize passenger comfort across both rows. In the front row, headroom measures 40 inches, reduced to 38.2 inches with the sunroof installed. The second row provides 39.2 inches of headroom, reduced to 37.8 with the sunroof. Shoulder room extends to 57.7 inches in the front and 55.7 inches in the rear. Hip room measures 55.2 inches in the front and 50.8 in the rear.
Legroom provides 40.6 inches for front passengers and 39.2 inches for the second row. These consistent figures across trims ensure predictable spacing and comfort levels. Seating capacity remains five occupants with a two-three configuration.
Cargo volume is measured at 29.8 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 63.5 cubic feet with the second row folded. These values remain constant across Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, ensuring standardized storage capacity.
Powertrain Engineering
The 2026 GMC Terrain is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Both the block and cylinder head are built from cast aluminum for improved weight distribution and thermal efficiency. The engine incorporates dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder, combined with direct injection for accurate fuel delivery. This system generates 175 horsepower, measured at 5600 rpm in front-wheel drive and at 5800 rpm in all-wheel drive. Torque output reaches 184 lb-ft at 1750 to 4800 rpm in front-wheel drive and 203 lb-ft at 2000 to 4000 rpm in all-wheel drive.
Transmission systems differ depending on configuration. Front-wheel drive versions employ a continuously variable transmission, calibrated with a 5.81 axle ratio for smooth acceleration and efficiency. All-wheel drive models use an eight-speed automatic transmission paired with a 3.47 axle ratio, engineered to optimize torque distribution and trailer stability. This design supports a maximum trailering capacity of 800 pounds on front-wheel drive and 1500 pounds on all-wheel drive.
Efficiency and Fuel Capacity
Fuel efficiency ratings for the 2026 GMC Terrain are measured by trim and drivetrain. The Elevation front-wheel drive records 26 miles per gallon in city driving, 28 miles per gallon on highways, and 27 miles per gallon combined. Elevation all-wheel drive achieves 24 miles per gallon in city conditions, 28 on highways, and 25 combined. The Denali and AT4 trims, both in all-wheel drive, provide 24 miles per gallon in the city, 26 on highways, and 25 combined.
Fuel capacity differs by configuration. Front-wheel drive models are equipped with a 14.8-gallon tank, while all-wheel drive models hold 15.6 gallons. These figures allow a consistent driving range without requiring frequent refueling, supporting both urban commutes and longer-distance travel.
Suspension and Ride Control
Suspension systems have been engineered to meet different driving environments. The Elevation trim uses a MacPherson® strut front suspension, offering balanced performance for standard road conditions. The AT4 is fitted with MacPherson® struts that integrate hydraulic rebound stops, designed to absorb sharper impacts during off-road travel. The Denali employs a MacPherson® strut setup with Smart Frequency Damper Technology, providing refined ride quality across varying surfaces.
All trims incorporate a four-link independent rear suspension for stability and handling consistency. Steering is controlled through a dual pinion rack-mounted electric power steering system. This system achieves a turning circle of 37.1 feet, allowing confident maneuvering in constrained areas.
Braking performance is delivered through four-wheel disc brakes with electronic boost, anti-lock braking, and electronic stability control. The front brake rotors measure 300 mm by 26 mm in vented form, while the rear rotors measure 288 mm by 12 mm in solid design.
Exterior Structure and Dimensions
The 2026 GMC Terrain maintains a wheelbase of 107.48 inches across all trims. The Elevation front-wheel and all-wheel drive variants measure 181 inches in length, while the AT4 measures 181.4 and the Denali 181.1. The vehicle width remains consistent at 74.5 inches. Heights range from 66.1 inches in Elevation and Denali to 66.5 in AT4.
Track width is uniform at 63.8 inches in the front and 63.9 in the rear. Ground clearance is 7.7 inches for Elevation and Denali and 7.9 inches for AT4. These figures are designed to balance ease of entry with capability in uneven conditions.
Approach and departure angles vary by trim. Elevation front-wheel and all-wheel drive models feature a 19.3-degree approach and 24.6-degree departure angle. The Denali records an 18.1-degree approach and a 22.5-degree departure. The AT4 achieves a 21.9-degree approach and 23.1-degree departure angle, assisted by its additional ground clearance.
Wheel and Tire Options
Standard wheel size begins at 17 inches on Elevation and AT4 models. Elevation Premium and Denali offer 19-inch options, with the Denali also available with 20-inch wheels. Elevation additionally includes a 19-inch Black Edition option. Tire selections correspond with wheel configurations, ranging across 17 all-weather touring, 17 all-terrain, and 19- to 20-inch specifications.
Vehicle Weight and Ratings
Curb weight begins at 3446 pounds for the 1.5L turbo front-wheel drive and increases to 3598 for all-wheel drive Elevation. The AT4 weighs 3687 pounds, while the Denali reaches 3728 pounds. The gross vehicle weight rating is 4630 pounds in front-wheel drive and 4850 pounds in all-wheel drive configurations.
Safety and Stability Systems
All models include four-wheel disc brakes, stability control, and advanced suspension designs specific to trim. The AT4 integrates an off-road-tuned suspension for stability on rough surfaces. The Denali employs a premium suspension that uses Smart Frequency Dampers for refined road handling. These systems ensure consistent safety standards across conditions while maintaining driver confidence during maneuvers, turns, and braking applications.
Trim Specifications
The Elevation trim offers standard suspension with multiple wheel size options and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. The AT4 introduces additional ground clearance, hydraulic rebound suspension, and tailored off-road capability. The Denali distinguishes itself with Smart Frequency Damper Technology, 20-inch wheel options, and premium styling features, including its exclusive color selections.
Visit Elevation Chevrolet GMC to Schedule a Test Ride
The 2026 GMC Terrain is engineered with attention to technical performance, precise suspension systems, and efficient design. Its turbocharged engine, range of drivetrain choices, and well-calculated interior dimensions establish it as a consistent option in the compact SUV segment. At Elevation Chevrolet GMC near Morganton, NC, we invite you to schedule a test drive to experience the engine performance, safety engineering, and advanced suspension systems of the 2026 GMC Terrain. A test drive provides an opportunity to evaluate the horsepower, torque distribution, and interior space in operation. Our team is ready to assist you in selecting the trim and configuration that matches your requirements.