The 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel marks a significant foray into the diesel compact SUV market, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and capability that sets it apart from its gasoline-powered counterparts. If you're considering a used SUV, particularly one that promises to save you money at the pump without sacrificing performance, the 2018 Terrain Diesel might just be what you're looking for. Let's dive into a comprehensive review, covering everything from its engine specs and fuel economy to its interior features and overall driving experience.

Overview of the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel

The 2018 GMC Terrain received a complete redesign, introducing a more modern and sophisticated look. The diesel variant, equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, quickly garnered attention for its impressive fuel economy. But it's not just about saving gas; this SUV offers a comfortable ride, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a host of available safety features. The Terrain Diesel is aimed at buyers who want a practical, efficient, and somewhat upscale compact SUV.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 137 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. While the horsepower figure might seem modest, the torque output is substantial, providing ample low-end grunt for confident acceleration and towing. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. The combination results in a driving experience that feels responsive and refined, especially around town and on the highway.

Fuel Economy: One of the biggest draws of the Terrain Diesel is its exceptional fuel economy. It achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. These numbers are particularly appealing to those who commute long distances or frequently embark on road trips.

Driving Dynamics: The Terrain Diesel offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth experience for both the driver and passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it's not a sporty SUV, the Terrain Diesel handles confidently and predictably in most driving situations.

Interior and Features

The 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel boasts a well-designed and thoughtfully laid-out interior. The cabin is made with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. There's plenty of headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, accommodating passengers of all sizes.

Infotainment System: The Terrain comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Higher trim levels offer an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and other advanced features. The system is responsive and intuitive, making it easy to control various functions.

Cargo Space: The Terrain offers a generous amount of cargo space for its class. With the rear seats up, there's 29.6 cubic feet of space, which expands to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The flat load floor and wide cargo opening make it easy to load and unload items of various sizes.

Available Features: The 2018 Terrain Diesel is available with a range of features, including:

• Leather upholstery
• Heated front seats
• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• Panoramic sunroof
• Bose premium audio system
• Hands-free power liftgate

Safety and Technology

GMC prioritized safety in the design of the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel. It comes standard with a rearview camera and a suite of airbags. Available safety features include:

• Forward collision alert
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control
• Automatic emergency braking

The Terrain earned good crash-test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further bolstering its reputation as a safe and reliable SUV.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel was offered in several trim levels, including SLE, SLT, and Denali. Each trim level offers a different set of features and amenities, catering to a variety of budgets and preferences.

• SLE: The base trim comes standard with essential features like a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and keyless entry.
• SLT: The SLT trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an upgraded infotainment system.
• Denali: The top-of-the-line Denali trim includes premium features like a panoramic sunroof, a Bose audio system, and advanced safety technologies.

Used prices for the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel vary depending on the trim level, mileage, and condition. Generally, you can expect to find them in the range of $18,000 to $25,000.

What Owners Are Saying: Real-World Reviews

To get a well-rounded perspective on the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel, let's consider what actual owners have to say about their experiences. Online forums and review sites are filled with valuable insights into the pros and cons of this SUV.

Common Praises

Exceptional Fuel Economy: The most frequently praised aspect of the Terrain Diesel is its outstanding fuel economy. Owners consistently report achieving or even exceeding the EPA-estimated MPG figures, making it a great choice for those with long commutes or frequent road trips.

Comfortable Ride: Many owners appreciate the comfortable and smooth ride quality of the Terrain Diesel. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections, providing a pleasant driving experience.

User-Friendly Infotainment System: The infotainment system is generally well-received, with its intuitive interface and seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Common Complaints

Engine Performance: While the diesel engine provides ample torque for everyday driving, some owners find the horsepower output to be lacking, especially when accelerating quickly or climbing steep hills.

Reliability Issues: Some owners have reported experiencing reliability issues with the diesel engine, including problems with the emissions system and fuel injectors. It's essential to have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchasing a used Terrain Diesel.

Small Back Seat: While the front seats are spacious and comfortable, some owners find the rear seats to be a bit cramped, especially for taller passengers.

Alternatives to the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel

If the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel doesn't quite meet your needs, there are several other compact SUVs worth considering. Here are a few of the top alternatives:

Chevrolet Equinox Diesel

The Chevrolet Equinox is mechanically identical to the GMC Terrain, sharing the same diesel engine and many of the same features. The Equinox typically costs less than the Terrain, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is known for its sporty handling, stylish design, and upscale interior. While it doesn't offer a diesel engine, the CX-5 provides a more engaging driving experience than the Terrain.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a perennial favorite in the compact SUV segment, offering a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and a reputation for reliability. It's a practical and well-rounded choice for families.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is another popular compact SUV, known for its reliability, safety, and fuel efficiency. The RAV4 offers a hybrid variant that provides even better gas mileage than the Terrain Diesel.

Is the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel a Good Buy?

The 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel can be a great buy for the right person. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, a comfortable ride, and a user-friendly infotainment system, it's definitely worth considering. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential reliability issues and to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. Also, be sure to compare it to other compact SUVs to see which one best meets your needs and preferences.

Conclusion

The 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel stands out as a fuel-efficient and capable compact SUV. Its diesel engine provides excellent fuel economy, making it an appealing choice for those who drive long distances or want to save money on gas. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as potential reliability issues and limited horsepower, the Terrain Diesel offers a comfortable ride, a well-designed interior, and a host of available features. By carefully weighing the pros and cons and comparing it to other options, you can determine whether the 2018 GMC Terrain Diesel is the right SUV for you. Happy car hunting, guys!