GMC Terrain II (2018 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The second-generation GMC Terrain marks a major evolution compared to its predecessor, adopting a lighter platform and slightly reduced dimensions to better fit into the compact SUV segment. A technical cousin of the Chevrolet Equinox, it stands out with a more assertive design, higher-quality interior materials, and an "accessible premium" positioning typical of the GMC brand. It received a facelift for the 2022 model year, bringing aesthetic tweaks (redesigned LED headlights) and a technological update, as well as the introduction of the rugged AT4 trim. Overall, its reliability is average for the category, with a clear preference for the base gasoline engines, as the diesel and 2.0T versions were prematurely removed from the catalog.

✅ Strengths

Solid reliability of the base 1.5T engine (above average according to Consumer Reports)
Extensive and competent GMC/Buick after-sales network in North America
Good residual value on the used market
Cabin soundproofing (Active Noise Cancellation technology)
Intuitive and responsive infotainment system (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto as standard)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Problematic 1.6L Diesel engine (EGR, DPF)
Disappearance of the 2.0T engine after 2020, limiting towing performance
Un-ergonomic push-button gear selector on the dashboard
Quality of some plastics in the lower part of the cabin
Numerous manufacturer recalls on the early production years (2018-2019)

🎯 Verdict

The second-generation GMC Terrain is a generally recommendable compact SUV, provided you choose the engine and year carefully. The 1.5T gasoline engine is the safest and most rational choice, offering solid reliability and controlled maintenance costs. The 2.0T, although high-performing, requires more rigorous monitoring. On the other hand, the 1.6L Diesel is to be avoided due to its chronic emissions control problems (EGR/DPF). The 2018 and 2019 models suffered teething problems with numerous early recalls; it is therefore preferable to look for a model from 2020 onwards, or ideally the 2022 facelifted version. Pay special attention to the maintenance of the all-wheel drive (AWD) transmission when buying used.

Common issues

Problèmes de transmission automatique (hésitations, changements de vitesse brusques) Medium

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 1 500 – 4 000 $USD (reprogrammation, remplacement de solénoïdes, voire révision)

Tester la transmission lors de l'essai routier; vérifier l'historique d'entretien.

Consommation excessive d'huile moteur (moteur 1.5L Turbo) Medium

🔧 50 000 – 100 000 km

💶 800 – 2 500 $USD (remplacement segments, PCV, ou réparation plus complexe)

Vérifier régulièrement le niveau d'huile; privilégier le moteur 2.0L si possible.

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement/électronique Low

🔧 Dès 30 000 km

💶 200 – 800 $USD (mise à jour logicielle, remplacement module, écran)

Tester toutes les fonctions électroniques (écran, connectivité) avant l'achat.

Problèmes de climatisation (faible refroidissement, bruit) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 500 – 1 500 $USD (recharge, remplacement compresseur, actionneur de volet)

S'assurer que la climatisation fonctionne correctement à toutes les vitesses.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 140
Timing chain	données insuffisantes (non un entretien régulier, plutôt une réparation majeure si nécessaire)
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£500 – 1 000

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.