The second-generation Terrain launched for the 2018
model year at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, bringing with it
a complete overhaul of the compact crossover SUV. Included in the long list of
updates was an enhanced suspension setup for the range-topping GMC Terrain
Denali, with the trim-specific suspension tuning offering a more refined ride
compared to non-Denali models. And now, the GMC Terrain Denali is doubling down
on its comfort-enhancing suspenders for the 2020 model year.
To appreciate what’s new, we must quickly revisit
what’s old: the 2018 and 2019 GMC Terrain Denali came equipped with unique
suspension tuning compared to the rest of the line, as well as urethane spring
isolators that worked to reduce road noise when traveling over less-than-ideal
road surfaces. For the 2020 model year, the GMC Terrain Denali gets further ride
improvements by introducing an additional internal valve for the struts and
shocks to deliver even more refinement. This is in addition to the upgraded
urethane spring isolators that were present for 2018 and 2019 model years.
The 2020 GMC Terrain Denali also offers
updated content in the form of the Denali Premium Package, which bundles
together the Advanced Safety Package and Comfort Package to stuff the crossover
with high-end features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Parking
Assist, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats, among other features. It’s great to see the GMC Terrain
Denali taking its premium approach one step further. This space is outrageously
competitive these days, so anything done to stand out from the crowd is
definitely appreciated.
For reference, the second-generation GMC Terrain is
offered with three powerplant options, including the turbocharged 1.5L LYX
four-cylinder gasoline engine, the turbocharged 2.0L LTG four-cylinder gas
engine, and the turbocharged 1.6L LH7 four-cylinder diesel. The diesel,
however, is being discontinued for the 2020 model year due to a low take rate.
Output for the remaining gasoline 1.5T and 2.0T
mills is 170 horsepower and 252 hP. Both of the gas
engines mate to the GM nine-speed automatic transmission with either
front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive to put power to the pavement.
