​​AutoBlog Reviews the 2026 GMC TerrainAT4​ 

As the best-selling vehicle category in the country, compact crossovers tend to have high profiles and are often the best-selling models of their brand.  The GMC Terrain, however, tends to be overshadowed by the brand’s pickup trucks and full-size SUVs. But the brand’s smallest SUV is and looks better than ever, particularly in AT4 trim, as discovered by AutoBlog reviewer Cole Attisha. Ewing Buick GMC tells you what he had to say about the smallest GMC. 

Back in the days of GMC’s Jimmy, all SUVs promised and delivered notable off-road capability. It came at the cost of a harsher highway ride, lower efficiency, and a lower overall level of refinement, which is why crossover SUVs like the Terrain and its rivals have taken over the market. People still prefer the more comfortable ride and fuel economy of modern crossovers, which have become their family vehicles. However, many still yearn for the off-road imagery that SUVs once embodied. Lately, many compact crossovers have off-road-focused trims that range from actual off-road capability to mere cosplay. The AT4 formula was born from GMC’s trucks, so the brand knows a bit about applying it to its smallest crossover. 

Thus, the AT4 is fitted with standard all-wheel drive, a lifted ride height, General Grabber all-terrain tires, front and underbody skid plates, an off-road-tuned suspension, a tow package with up to 1,500-lb capacity, and red recovery hooks for when you take things a little too far. Like other Terrain models, it is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 175 horsepower. With all-wheel drive (AWD), the AT4 delivers 203 lb-ft of torque (FWD models have 184 lb-ft). AWD also gives the Terrain an 8-speed automatic transmission, which can make a notable difference in feel compared with its often more powerful but Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)-equipped competitors. Next year, FWD Terrains will replace their CVT with the 8-speed trannie. 

The smaller engine pays off in fuel economy, with ratings of 24 city / 26 highway / 25 combined. And while the engine makes itself known during hard acceleration, “But it settles down once underway, and most of the time the Terrain’s powertrain disappears into the background in a way that suits the vehicle’s mission.” Attisha notes. 

Attisha was particularly impressed by the cabin, which he says, “doesn’t necessarily feel luxurious, but it does feel thoughtfully assembled and relatively upscale for the class. The materials are not lavish, but they are chosen appropriately and, more importantly, feel properly put together. That is not always true in this corner of the market, where some rivals hide mediocre execution behind trendy textures and giant screens.”  The cargo space is not class-leading, but Attisha notes, “There are also welcome practical touches throughout. The split-folding rear seats, underfloor storage area, and console pass-through all make the Terrain more usable for adventurous outings.”  

The standard 11-inch digital driver’s display and 15-inch screen with wireless smartphone compatibility are good technology features, but Attisha was particularly impressed with their clarity.  “ The crisp gauge cluster and responsive camera system also left a strong impression.” 

In the final analysis, it is noted that the Terrain AT4 is not the most powerful, most off-road-capable, or most spacious model in the class. Still, it does a good job of being in the center of a Venn diagram of all three. It suggests it may be the answer to “a question more people are starting to ask: what if you want the image and some of the utility of a soft-roader, but still want your daily driver to feel quiet, comfortable, spacious, and well screwed together?” 

It certainly should put the Terrain on your shopping list if you are among the hundreds of thousands in the compact crossover market.  If you live anywhere near Plano, Texas, you should consider shopping at Ewing Buick GMC, where you’ll receive excellent service, a huge inventory, and top-tier hospitality during your visit.