The GMC Terrain II 1.6d AWD Start/Stop Automatic, produced between 2017 and 2019, represents a specific configuration within the second generation of GMC’s compact SUV. Positioned as a fuel-efficient option within the Terrain II lineup, this variant aimed to appeal to buyers seeking all-wheel-drive capability combined with diesel economy. It occupied a middle ground in terms of price and performance, slotting below the more powerful gasoline engine options and above the base trims. The Terrain II, built on the GM Theta platform, was intended to compete with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Terrain |
| Generation | Terrain II |
| Type | 1.6d (137 Hp) AWD Start/Stop Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Power | 137 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 2000 rpm / 239.71 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LH7 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 / 97.52 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l / 5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7.5 l / 7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 838 l / 29.59 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2294 l / 81.01 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l / 15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 680 kg / 1499.14 lbs. |
| Length | 4630 mm / 182.28 in. |
| Width | 1839 mm / 72.4 in. |
| Height | 1661 mm / 65.39 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm / 107.28 in. |
| Front track | 1582 mm / 62.28 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1588 mm / 62.52 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17; 235/55 R18; 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Terrain II 1.6d is the GM-developed LH7 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine. This inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, optimizes airflow for enhanced performance. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its smooth operation and fuel efficiency. This transmission was specifically calibrated to work with the diesel engine’s torque curve, providing adequate acceleration without sacrificing economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 137 horsepower and 239.71 lb-ft of torque produced by the 1.6-liter diesel engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance in the Terrain II. Acceleration is best described as steady, with the automatic transmission generally selecting appropriate gears for the driving conditions. Compared to the 1.5L or 2.0L gasoline engines offered in the Terrain II, the diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather, making it a suitable choice for regions with snow or rain. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning that while it offers smooth shifts, it may not provide the most responsive experience when quick acceleration is needed. The diesel’s torque delivery is relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide RPM range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6d AWD Start/Stop Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades available. Higher trim levels within the Terrain II range offered features like heated seats, a power liftgate, and advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Start/Stop system, designed to improve fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine at idle, was a standard feature on this variant. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Terrain II utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension was tuned to balance ride comfort with handling stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. Electric power steering provides a responsive and precise steering feel. The all-wheel-drive system automatically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels as needed, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Terrain II 1.6d AWD Start/Stop Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and the added security of all-wheel drive, but some found the engine’s performance to be underwhelming compared to the gasoline alternatives. Fuel economy figures were generally in the range of 27-30 mpg combined, making it a competitive option in the diesel SUV segment. Reliability reports were generally average, with some owners reporting issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the automatic transmission. Compared to the 1.5L turbo gasoline engine, the 1.6d offered better fuel economy but less horsepower. The 2.0L turbo gasoline engine provided significantly more power but at the expense of fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The 1.6-liter diesel engine in the Terrain II, while not a high-volume seller, offered a unique option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and capable compact SUV. The LH7 engine, while generally reliable, requires diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter. On the used car market, these models tend to be priced competitively, reflecting the lower demand for diesel vehicles in North America. The Terrain II 1.6d AWD Start/Stop Automatic remains a viable option for those seeking a practical and economical SUV, provided that a thorough pre-purchase inspection is conducted to assess the condition of the engine and transmission.
