At 19 MPG combined, the 2015 GMC Terrain AWD 3.6L isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards. It’s a middling figure, aimed at a buyer who wants space, comfort, and all-weather security more than saving fuel. The Terrain is a practical, slightly upscale hauler for families who need all-wheel drive grip, and a V6’s power for merging and highway cruising. This buyer understands those capabilities cost more at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 GMC Terrain AWD 3.6L are 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how stop-and-go driving makes the V6 use more gas. The Terrain is relatively heavy, and accelerating from a standstill repeatedly uses fuel. The highway number is better, suggesting the Terrain can achieve reasonable efficiency at a steady speed. However, drivers need to be careful with the accelerator. Aggressive acceleration will quickly reduce any highway gains. Remember to explore all all Gmc fuel economy data using this site and make sure it’s a perfect fit.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 GMC Terrain AWD 3.6L at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and gasoline prices in your area. If you primarily drive in the city or drive aggressively, expect your annual fuel costs to be higher.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Many 2015 GMC Terrain AWD 3.6L owners report lower fuel economy than the EPA estimates, especially in combined driving. Traffic, weather, and driving style can all lower MPG. Hitting the EPA numbers requires driving efficiently. If you are considering all TERRAIN MPG across all years, you’ll want to research these reports.

How it compares

The 2015 GMC Terrain AWD 3.6L has strong competition in the compact SUV segment. The Toyota RAV4 AWD, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, which is a significant advantage for buyers focused on lower fuel costs. The Honda CR-V AWD has a similar advantage, also around 24-25 MPG combined, depending on the specific model year. Even the Mazda CX-5 AWD, known for its sporty handling, gets better fuel economy, with figures around 26 MPG combined.

The Terrain aims to attract buyers with the larger V6 engine. Competitors often use smaller four-cylinder engines that are efficient but don’t deliver the same readily available power. For those willing to give up some power, better fuel economy can be found elsewhere, but for buyers who want strong passing power and a more reliable driving experience, the Terrain’s compromise is acceptable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are important. The Terrain’s V6 engine can be sensitive to aggressive use of the accelerator. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal and anticipate traffic to minimize hard braking. Smooth changes in speed will help you conserve fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which you can find on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area because additional weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Every extra pound adds up and impacts the engine’s efficiency.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without moving you anywhere. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine uses less fuel than idling for a long time.

Consider cruise control on the highway. On relatively flat highway stretches, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel economy. Don’t use cruise control in hilly terrain, as the vehicle may downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings.