The 2023 GMC Terrain AWD with the 1.5L turbo achieves 26 MPG combined, an acceptable number for its target buyer: practical people who want something slightly nicer than basic small SUVs and require all-wheel drive for bad weather. The goal isn’t maximum fuel efficiency, but a balance of capability, comfort, and reasonable fuel costs.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates rate the Terrain AWD at 24 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands on the 1.5L turbo in stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works to accelerate the vehicle’s nearly 3,500-pound weight. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps, providing smooth shifts and keeping the engine in its best power range. Expect a slight drop from 24 MPG in cold weather or with extended idling.

The 28 MPG highway rating is more representative of steady cruising. The transmission selects higher gears, allowing the engine to run at low RPMs. Aggressive driving or constant uphill grades will lower the highway figure closer to the combined number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 GMC Terrain AWD 1.5L at $1,700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving, city versus highway driving, and local fuel prices, which can change. The EPA calculation is a broad average, and individual results will vary.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners report mileage variations based on driving style, terrain, and weather. Drivers who accelerate hard or frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic can expect to see figures closer to the low 20s. Conversely, drivers who accelerate gently, maintain consistent highway speeds, and live in flat areas may approach or slightly exceed the EPA estimates. Understanding these variables is critical to setting realistic expectations for fuel consumption.

How it compares

In the compact SUV segment, the GMC Terrain AWD’s fuel economy is similar to other AWD models, but lower than FWD versions. The Honda CR-V AWD achieves 29 MPG combined, slightly better than the Terrain. The Toyota RAV4 AWD gets 30 MPG combined, a significant advantage in fuel efficiency. The Subaru Forester gets 29 MPG combined, also surpassing the Terrain. The Chevrolet Equinox AWD, which is mechanically similar, also achieves 26 MPG. These comparisons represent the real-world trade-off for enhanced styling and a more premium interior compared to some mainstream rivals. For more data, explore all Gmc fuel economy data and research TERRAIN MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Terrain AWD. The 1.5L turbo engine is responsive, but frequent hard acceleration will quickly deplete your fuel. Ease into the throttle and allow the transmission to shift smoothly. Avoid aggressive maneuvers and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Proper tire inflation is often overlooked, but it can affect fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly against the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb and maintain the recommended PSI. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary items in your Terrain adds to the vehicle’s mass, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Clear out any extra cargo you don’t need. This is important even for drivers who only sometimes haul cargo, as they often leave it in place.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need long warm-up periods, and idling wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Terrain’s start/stop system can also help with this.

Use cruise control carefully. It can help maintain a consistent speed on the highway, but it may not always be the most efficient option in hilly terrain. The system may downshift aggressively to maintain speed on inclines, consuming more fuel. Be mindful of the terrain and consider controlling the throttle manually when appropriate.