Can a GMC Terrain pull a pop-up camper?

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: Can a GMC Terrain pull a pop-up camper? We will discuss the towing capacity and features of each GMC Terrain version, We will also discuss the pros and cons of towing with a GMC Terrain. 

Can a GMC Terrain pull a pop-up camper?

Yes, A GMC Terrain can pull a pop-up camper. The towing capacity of a GMC Terrain is between 1,500 and 3,500 lbs, depending on the version. A pop-up camper is among the lightest trailers and weighs approximately 2,000 lbs. 

GMC Terrain Towing Capacity

Version	Towing Capacity	Specs
Terrain SL	1, 500 lbs	170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque
Terrain SLE	3,500 lbs	252-horsepower engine that puts out 260 pound-feet of torque
Terrain SLT	3,500 lbs	170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft torque
Terrain Denali	3,500 lbs	170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft torque

Pros and Cons of towing with a GMC Terrain

The GMC Terrain that equips advancements in safety, technology, OnStar 4G LTE, radio with GMC infotainment 3.0 with real-time traffic and app store, in addition to Electronic Precision Shift, an electronically controlled 9-speed transmission that reduces noise and vibrations in the path. Price: from $27,900. 

Advantages of towing with a GMC Terrain:

• Lots of standard advanced security features
• Considerable legroom in the rear seat
• Exclusive and comfortable cabin
• Good city mpg rating with the base engine
• The small cargo area behind the rear seat

Disadvantages of towing with a GMC Terrain:

• Sleepy base engine
• Price above the class average
• Many additional standard security features
• Diesel engine no longer available. 

GMC Terrain Rankings and research

2020 GMC Terrain ranks # 11 in the compact SUV category. Currently, the GMC Terrain has a score of 7.5 out of 10, which is based on the evaluation of 31 pieces of research and data items using various sources.

# 11 in compact SUVs

# 40 in crossover SUVs

# 27 in 2-row SUVs

Is the GMC Terrain a good SUV?

The Terrain is a good compact SUV, but its positives tend to be matched by negatives. For example, models equipped with the base engine are fuel-efficient but accelerate at a snail’s pace. The upgraded engine makes this SUV move much faster, although it will cost you a bit more at the gas pump. The rear seat is roomy, while the cargo hold behind it is not.

Should I buy the Terrain GMC?

The main attraction of the Terrain is that it combines high-quality materials, a quiet and comfortable ride, and a host of standard features. But this GMC faces stiff competition. For about the same amount of money, you can pick up a mid-level trim from a higher-end compact SUV. 

You can take a look at the complete Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. Buyers can also appreciate the Toyota RAV4’s long set of standard safety features and above-average predicted reliability rating.

For 2020, all Terrain trims come standard with GMC Pro Safety. This package includes Automatic Forward Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Following Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Next Distance Indicator, Forward Pedestrian Braking, and Automatic High Beam Headlights. Only some of these features were previously available, and they were only offered as options in higher settings.

The MSRP for a new GMC Terrain starts at $ 25,000, which is the same as the 2019 model. Prices for the remaining trim range from $28,400 to $38,300. These prices are above the class average.

GMC Terrain engine and torque

The GMC Terrain comes standard with:

• Four-cylinder engine
• 2.4 litres producing 182 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque

Optional for SLE-2, SLT and Denali Terrains is:

• A 3.6-litre V6 engine
• 301 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque

Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional on all trims except the base SL model.

GMC Terrain Towing Performance 

With the four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, the GMC Terrain returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg (22 city / 32 highway) combined and a combined 23 mpg (20/29) with all-wheel drive.

Front-wheel drive 3.6-liter V6 models are rated at 20 combined mpg (17/24), and all-wheel drive has 18 combined mpg (16/23).

In internal tests, a four-cylinder, front-wheel-drive Terrain went from zero to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, which is slightly slower than average for a small crossover. A V6-equipped all-wheel-drive Denali version went from zero to 60 in just 7.0 seconds.

With the four-cylinder engine, a properly equipped Terrain can tow 1,500 pounds; the V6 increases towing capacity to 3,500 pounds.

GMC Terrain Towing Features

The GMC Terrain truck is available in five trim levels: SL, SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT and Denali.

Standard equipment for the base SL trim includes:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Backup camera
• Fully electric accessories
• Cruise control
• Height adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar
• Tilting and telescopic steering wheel
• Rear privacy glass
• OnStar (with the integrated WiFi access point)
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Six-speaker sound system with a 7-inch touch screen interface that includes an auxiliary audio jack and a USB port

Get on the SLE-1 and you will get:

• Heated exterior mirrors
• Satellite radio
• Option for an all-wheel-drive powertrain is available, as are several feature packages

The SLE-2 builds on the SLE-1, adding:

• LED daytime running lights
• Automatic climate control
• Eight-way power driver’s seat (with power lumbar)
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Pioneer eight-speaker audio system
• GM IntelliLink system, including Bluetooth audio, voice command functionality, and compatibility with the Pandora and Stitcher smartphone applications
• The available Convenience package adds heated front seats and a remote engine start.

The SLT adds:

• 18-inch wheels
• Chrome exterior details
• Remote engine start
• Ambient lighting
• Heated front seats with perforated leather trim
• In addition, there are two levels of the Driver Alert package available for SLE-2 and SLT.

The top-end Denali has the SLT features, as well as a Denali-specific comfort-oriented suspension setup, wheels, and interior / exterior trim. Also includes Memory and Driver Alert I and II packages.

A navigation system is optional on GMC Terrain trimmed SLE-2 and above. 18-inch wheels can be ordered on the SLE-2, while SLT and Denali trims can be ordered with single 19-inch wheels.

GMC Terrain Safety Features

GMC has renamed some of the Terrain trim levels on sub-Denali models and has slightly changed equipment availability. In particular, additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning are now available on SLE-2 and SLT trims (previously only available on Denali). 

A storage area takes the place of the CD player, which has been dropped. Finally, the Terrain has slightly updated front and rear styling and LED daytime running lights on SLE-2 and above.

Although GMC is primarily known as a large truck and truck brand, the GMC Terrain’s well-decorated interior is anything but rugged. The dashboard is designed in two graceful curves, and the secondary gauges and controls are highlighted with a bright red backlight, while the ambient lighting creates a truly inviting nighttime atmosphere. 

The centre console has survived almost intact since Terrain’s debut in 2010, and it looks dated compared to most other vehicles in this segment.

The GMC Terrain is equipped with:

• Standard anti-lock brakes
• Stability and traction control
• Side impact airbags in the front seats
• Side curtain airbags
• Rearview camera

Also standard is GM’s OnStar emergency communications system, which includes automatic crash notification, an emergency assist button, remote door unlock, and stolen vehicle assistance.

In addition, its security level is increased thanks to the fact that it includes:

• Lane Departure Warning System and Forward Collision Warning System
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Cross traffic alert system
• Rear parking sensors are optional on SLE-2 and SLT trim levels and standard on Denali

The Terrain brakes with confidence. In testing, the four-cylinder model stopped at 60 mph in 119 feet, a few feet shorter than average. The heavier V6 AWD Terrain Denali stopped at 122 feet.

In government crash tests, the Terrain earned an overall score of four out of five stars, with four stars for overall frontal-impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection.

On the other hand, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Terrain the best possible rating of “Good” in its tests of small overlap frontal setback, moderate overlap frontal deviation, side impact and roof strength. The seat/headrest design was also rated “Good” for rear impact whiplash protection.

Final impressions

Ride and towing quality are excellent on the GMC Terrain. Its suspension tuned for comfort soaks up road imperfections, while soundproofing measures make the crossover extremely quiet on the road.

It is an excellent cruising vehicle. Plus, the comfortable suspension offered on the Denali trim makes the ride even more enjoyable. There is a price to pay for the smooth ride, however, as the Terrain is out of its element when the road begins to bend.

Although the four-cylinder GMC Terrain matches the acceleration times of other compact crossovers in this price range, it doesn’t feel as powerful in the real world. You will be on the full-throttle during routine merging and overtaking manoeuvres, and this is not very relaxing.

FAQ on Can a GMC Terrain pull a pop-up camper?

What brands are from GMC?

The company’s vehicle brands include Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Saab, Hummer and Saturn

Which of the brands is better: Chevrolet or GMC?

In terms of design, GMC vehicles were built to be stronger than Chevrolet due to the market the product wants to serve. GMC is built primarily for construction and commercial use, so a stronger engine is used for more durability.

Who owns the GMC?

William Crapo Durant is the owner and founder of the GMC.

Which is better: Silverado or Sierra?

If you have a big budget, want a truck for work and also that stands out from the rest of the trucks then the GMC Sierra is for you. On the other hand, you should know that the Silverado is more affordable, has better fuel efficiency and has the largest cargo box of its kind.

Other FAQs about Pop up campers  that you may be interested in.

Can you insulate a pop-up camper?

Can I live in a pop-up camper year-round?

Can a pop-up camper fit in a garage?

References

• Can a GMC Terrain Pull a Camper? Answered – RV Owner HQ
• Can The GMC Terrain Tow a Camper Trailer? – Drivin’ & Vibin’
• 2021 GMC Terrain Towing Capacity