The GMC Terrain I (facelift, 2016) equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 301 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the mid-size SUV segment. Produced for the 2016 and 2017 model years, this variant occupied a premium position within the Terrain lineup, catering to buyers seeking a blend of power, all-weather capability, and family-friendly practicality. It built upon the foundation of the original Terrain introduced in 2010, benefiting from a mid-cycle refresh that included styling updates and revised interior features. This particular configuration was primarily marketed towards North American consumers, aligning with GMC’s brand identity of “Professional Grade” trucks and SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Terrain |
| Generation | Terrain I (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (301 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 158.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 301 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 367 Nm @ 4800 rpm (270.69 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LFX |
| Engine displacement | 3564 cm3 (217.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.6 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 895 l (31.61 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1810 l (63.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4771 mm (187.83 in.) |
| Width | 1849 mm (72.8 in.) |
| Height | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2858 mm (112.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 175 mm (6.89 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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
At the heart of the 2016-2017 GMC Terrain 3.6L AWD lies the LFX 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s High Feature V6 engine family, known for its robust construction and relatively smooth operation. The LFX utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. It also features variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine produces 301 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifting. This transmission was specifically tuned to complement the V6 engine’s power characteristics, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission combination delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder Terrain. Acceleration is brisk, making highway merging and overtaking maneuvers effortless. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel slightly hesitant during quick downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a suitable choice for regions with snow or rain. While not a sports SUV, the Terrain 3.6L offers a confident and composed ride, with adequate handling for everyday driving. The gear ratios are optimized for a blend of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with the final drive ratio contributing to a comfortable cruising experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 AWD Terrain typically came standard with a generous array of features. Standard equipment often included keyless entry, a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a premium Bose audio system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Chassis & Braking
The Terrain utilizes an independent coil spring suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride quality. The front suspension features MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link design. All-wheel-drive models, like the 3.6L variant, are equipped with a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels as needed. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Terrain also incorporates an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard equipment.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Terrain 3.6L for its powerful engine and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were not as upscale as those found in some competitors. Compared to the base 2.4-liter Terrain, the 3.6L offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy. The Terrain 3.6L competed with other mid-size SUVs such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. While the Terrain offered a more powerful engine option, some competitors boasted better fuel economy or more refined interiors.
Legacy
The LFX 3.6L V6 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with few widespread issues reported. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally considered durable. In the used car market, the 2016-2017 GMC Terrain 3.6L AWD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and well-equipped mid-size SUV. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission fluid flushes, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. While not a collector’s item, this Terrain variant represents a solid and practical choice for those seeking a dependable and comfortable SUV.
