The GMC Terrain II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2022 with the 1.5L turbocharged engine paired with an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s compact SUV offerings. Production spanned from 2021 through August 2024, positioning this variant as a mainstream choice within the Terrain lineup. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling and interior technology, aiming to enhance its appeal in the highly competitive North American SUV market. The 1.5L turbo/automatic combination served as a key volume seller, balancing affordability with a reasonable level of performance and features. It falls within the broader context of the Terrain II (designated as the GMC 210 series), which itself is based on the GM Delta II platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Terrain |
| Generation | Terrain II (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5L turbo (173 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| End of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 110.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm, 202.83 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LYX |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3, 90.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm, 2.91 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm, 3.41 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l, 4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt |
| Coolant | 6.6 l, 6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1564-1582 kg, 3448.03 – 3487.71 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 838 l, 29.59 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1792 l, 63.28 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l, 14.79 US gal | 12.32 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 | 1587 mm, 62.48 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 175-205 mm, 6.89 – 8.07 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4-12.7 m, 37.4 – 41.67 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 288 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 225/60 R18; 235/50 R19 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2022-2024 GMC Terrain II, powered by the 1.5L LYX turbocharged engine and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, occupied a crucial position in GMC’s lineup as an accessible and practical compact SUV. This configuration was aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. The facelifted Terrain II, introduced in 2022, brought refreshed styling and updated technology, enhancing its competitiveness against rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. This variant was a core offering, representing a significant portion of Terrain sales during its production run. It was designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a comfortable and reliable vehicle for daily commuting and weekend trips.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Terrain variant lies the 1.5L LYX inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s architecture features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT), optimizing performance across the rev range. The nine-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was specifically chosen for its wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel economy and responsiveness. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and ability to keep the engine operating in its optimal power band. The LYX engine produces 173 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm, providing adequate power for everyday driving situations. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further improve fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5L turbo/automatic Terrain delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the powertrain provides sufficient acceleration for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The nine-speed transmission is generally well-behaved, offering smooth gear changes. Compared to higher-trim Terrains equipped with more powerful engines, this variant feels less eager to accelerate, but the difference is generally not significant for most drivers. The wide gear ratio spread of the transmission helps maintain reasonable fuel economy, even under load. The steering is light and easy to use, making it well-suited for urban driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5L turbo automatic Terrain typically came standard with a respectable array of features. Base trims generally included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger touchscreen display, and a premium audio system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a rear park assist system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims, with leather available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the range, with a focus on user-friendliness and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Terrain II utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners, with a McPherson strut setup in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 300mm, while rear brakes are solid discs measuring 288mm. The braking system is assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance safety and control during emergency stops. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The Terrain’s chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5L turbo automatic Terrain received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered in certain situations, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. Fuel economy was generally considered to be competitive within its class. Compared to other trims in the Terrain lineup, the 1.5L turbo automatic offered a more affordable entry point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. It provided a good balance of features and performance for the price, although those seeking more power or a more luxurious experience would likely opt for a higher-trim model.
Legacy
The 1.5L LYX engine and nine-speed automatic transmission pairing in the GMC Terrain II have proven to be relatively reliable in the long term. While some owners have reported minor issues with the transmission, these are not widespread. The engine is generally considered to be durable and capable of handling high mileage with proper maintenance. As a result, used examples of this Terrain variant remain popular in the used car market, offering a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and affordable compact SUV. Its blend of fuel efficiency, comfort, and features continues to make it a compelling choice for families and individuals alike.
