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SUV drivers who embrace adventure still want good fuel economy, and that makes the GMC Terrain MPG extra appealing. If you’re wondering how far a Terrain can go on a full tank, you can expect up to 390 miles1 of driving that’s both nimble and rugged. That impressive range is thanks to a state-of-the-art 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine that gives you great performance on the interstate and the ability to blaze a trail – especially if you look at the AT4 trim.
We at Jones Buick GMC Casa Grande are proud of the mileage each and every GMC Terrain provides. Let’s go over this impressive statistic and what you can do in your compact SUV.
The GMC Terrain gas mileage varies only slightly based on the drivetrain of your model. While you can expect more miles per gallon from the front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration with a 14.9-gallon fuel tank, the AWD options give you three more miles of estimated range thanks to its 15.6-gallon tank. The following chart showcases the minute differences between the two drivetrain options.
| GMC Terrain MPG | ||
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Trims | SLE, SLT | – Denali, AT4 – SLE, SLT (Available) |
| City MPG | 24 mi2 | 23 mi3 |
| Highway MPG | 29 mi2 | 28 mi3 |
| Combined MPG | 26 mi2 | 25 mi3 |
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder | 1.5L 4-cylinder |
| Total Range | 387 mi1 | 390 mi1 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.9 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Recommended Fuel Type | E15 | E15 |
As you can see, the FWD boasts the very slightly more impressive EPA-estimated 24/29/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),2 while the AWD has the still competitive EPA-estimated 23/28/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 However, the range on both vehicles is quite similar due to the larger gas tank on the GMC Terrain AWD models.
These similarities are shared thanks to the efficient engine that powers all Terrain models: the 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. This engine outputs 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque, perfect for keeping your drive fuel-conscious and putting out enough power to overcome medium-difficulty off-road trails.
These GMC Terrain miles per gallon numbers are so close that no matter which drivetrain option you choose from our all-new Terrain vehicles, you’ll have an excellent gas range and aggressive EPA-estimated MPG.
The fuel efficiency of both the FWD and AWD Terrain drivetrains is competitive within the space of small SUVs. For example, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line 4MOTION features a lower EPA-estimated 22/29/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4 while not including a robust suite of off-roading features like Hill Descent Control or StabiliTrak electronic stability. Combining impeccable off-roading features with a powerful and innovative engine is why the GMC Terrain is so enticing.
When you look at SUVs with similar levels of off-road capability, the GMC Terrain MPG remains competitive. For example, the 2024 Kia Sportage X-Pro features an EPA-estimated 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).5 The Sportage comes with similar off-road features to the GMC Terrain, such as acceptable ground clearance, but only matches up to the Terrain AWD EPA-estimated highway MPG starting at the penultimate trim. Its other AWD trims are less fuel-efficient. Meanwhile, the GMC Terrain SUV can handle a bit of light off-road fun no matter the trim, all while providing accessible estimated MPG figures.
Much like the vehicle’s MPG, the Terrain’s fuel tank capacity changes based on your drivetrain. If you have an FWD Terrain, standard for SLE and SLT trims, you’ll have a gas tank with 14.9 gallons of capacity. Meanwhile, the AWD drivetrain standard on the Denali and AT4 trims increases that number to 15.6 gallons.
Because of their similar EPA-estimated MPG ratings, AWD is preferable if your goal is to drive consistently without stopping at gas stations. Its respectable 390 miles of gas range1 is excellent for a drive to your excursion, a fun weekend by the lake or at a campsite, and returning home with plenty of breathing room. The FWD range of 387 miles1 is excellent, too, and not different enough from the AWD value to make the total gas range the difference maker.
However, keep in mind that these values are for combined EPA-estimated MPG ratings. If you are constantly riding on rough roads or commuting in city traffic, expect your range to be less impressive – while still being able to easily surpass the distance of a weekend trek or your daily commute.
To effectively fill that impressive capacity and reach the highest possible GMC Terrain gas mileage, you’ll want E15 gasoline, which is also known as 88-octane regular fuel. This non-premium gas option blends 15% ethanol and 85% gas. The 1.5-liter turbo engine of the Terrain is more than capable of using this fuel type – alongside other regular fuel options – while keeping the engine and fuel economy of your Terrain healthy.
Premium fuel won’t hurt your Terrain’s engine but is unnecessary for day-to-day travel. If you have questions about fuel quality, gas station options, and what you should get for your Terrain, contact us or your trusted local GMC dealer.
GMC Terrain MPG is only one aspect of how this small SUV excels in the field of off-road-ready models. Go to your local trusted GMC dealership, like Jones Buick GMC Casa Grande, and tour their all-new GMC inventory. You’ll find the Terrain trim that best fits your needs and be able to take it for a test drive to get a feel for its handling and driving style.
Then, when you’re ready to consider financing or leasing, be sure to check out all new lease specials at our dealership. These make leasing your next adventurous SUV much more straightforward and stress-free.
The 1.5-liter turbo engine of the GMC Terrain is paired with an efficient nine-speed transmission to ensure optimal performance on the interstate or the road less traveled. This innovative engine is optimized to use E15 gasoline, enhancing fuel efficiency at a price that beats unleaded gas. Automatic Stop/Start can also help you conserve fuel in traffic.
The FWD trims of the GMC Terrain, including the SLE and SLT, reach an EPA-estimated 24/29/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 The AWD drivetrain, which comes standard on the Denali and AT4 trims, enjoys a superb EPA-estimated 23/28/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 This is fantastic for an SUV with off-roading capabilities like the GMC Terrain.
The GMC Terrain prefers E15 gas, an ethanol and gas blend of 15% to 85%, respectively. Labeled as Unleaded 88 at many gas stations, this fuel is healthy for your engine and provides some savings for your budget. You can freely use regular fuel without issue, as the engine is designed with lower octane levels in mind. Premium fuel is also fine but is unnecessary for your engine’s health.
1Estimated ranges provided are subject to variation based on factors such as fuel levels, driving habits, road conditions, and individual vehicle performance. These estimates should be used for comparison purposes only and shall not be solely relied upon.
2EPA-estimated mpg for the 1.5-liter turbo engine with nine-speed automatic transmission FWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
3EPA-estimated mpg for the 1.5-liter turbo engine with nine-speed automatic transmission AWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
4EPA estimates only. Your results will vary.
5Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.