The 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 is GMC’s rugged take on the compact SUV, set to hit Australian showrooms in mid-2025 with a bold look and a tech-heavy cabin. Priced at an estimated $65,000 AUD (converted from USD $39,995, adjusted for Aussie taxes), it boasts a 1.5L turbo 4-cylinder (175hp/203lb-ft), General Grabber all-terrain tires, and a 15-inch touchscreen, aiming to rival the Toyota RAV4, Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, and Jeep Compass Trailhawk. But despite its off-road flair and premium features, the AT4 has notable flaws that could make you rethink your purchase. Drawing from Driving Sports TV’s Pacific Northwest test, web sources (e.g., MotorTrend, Edmunds), and X sentiment, here are the top 5 reasons to avoid the 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 in Australia, plus a buyer’s guide to help you decide if it’s worth the hype—or if you should look elsewhere for your Outback adventures.
Top 5 Reasons to Avoid the 2026 GMC Terrain AT4
1. Underpowered and Sluggish Engine
The 1.5L turbo 4-cylinder (175hp, 203lb-ft) feels “buzzy and wheezy,” per MotorTrend, with a lethargic 9.26-second 0–100km/h sprint, as tested by Driving Sports TV. It struggles to move the nearly 2-tonne SUV, especially under full throttle, where the 8-speed automatic slurs shifts and sounds strained. Rivals like the Ford Bronco Sport Badlands (250hp, ~7s) or Toyota RAV4 Trail (203hp, ~8.4s) offer more grunt for similar money. Why Avoid? If you need quick acceleration for highway overtaking or towing (1,500lb max), the AT4’s lacklustre powertrain disappoints on Australian roads.
2. Limited Off-Road Capability
Despite its rugged badge, the AT4’s off-road prowess is underwhelming. Its 8.5-inch ground clearance and General Grabber tires handle light trails, but the lack of locking differentials, low-range gearing, or crawl control limits it on steep or rutted terrain, per Driving Sports TV. The Terrain mode mimics a low-speed crawl, but the system struggled in deep holes, digging itself in, and emitted a “clutch smell” under strain. The Jeep Compass Trailhawk (with low-range) or Bronco Sport Badlands (dual-clutch rear drive) are far more capable. Why Avoid? Serious off-roaders tackling the Simpson Desert will find the AT4 more style than substance.
3. Poor Fuel Economy and Range
The AT4’s fuel economy—9.8L/100km city, 9.0L/100km highway (24/26 mpg, per transcript)—is thirstier than rivals like the RAV4 Hybrid (6.0L/100km) or Subaru Forester Wilderness (8.5L/100km). With an estimated 55L fuel tank, the range is a modest ~450–500km, a pain for long Outback drives from Perth to Uluru. Why Avoid? The AT4’s inefficiency and limited range make it less practical for Australia’s vast distances compared to diesel or hybrid alternatives.
4. Glossy Black Trim Prone to Damage
The AT4’s glossy black wheel-lip and lower-body cladding looks sharp but is a magnet for scratches off-road, as Driving Sports TV noted: “Do you know what you’re going to rub first? It’s this right here.” Unlike the Bronco Sport’s matte cladding or the RAV4 Trail’s rugged plastics, the AT4’s trim is impractical for bush tracks. Why Avoid? If you plan to venture beyond gravel roads, the AT4’s delicate styling could cost you in repairs or resale value.
5. Steep Price for Limited Performance
At ~$65,000 AUD, the AT4 is pricey for its segment, especially when rivals like the Jeep Compass Trailhawk (~$55,000 AUD) or Ford Bronco Sport Badlands (~$60,000 AUD) offer more power and off-road capability, per Edmunds. The RAV4 Trail (~$60,000 AUD) adds hybrid efficiency and better resale value. While the AT4’s tech (15-inch screen, safety suite) is impressive, its “entry-level premium experience” lacks the power or refinement to justify the cost, per Driving Sports TV. Why Avoid? You’re paying a premium for looks and tech, not performance or versatility.
Comparison Table
| Feature | GMC Terrain AT4 | Ford Bronco Sport Badlands | Toyota RAV4 Trail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (AUD) | ~$65,000 (est.) | ~$60,000 | ~$60,000 |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl (175hp/203lb-ft) | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl (250hp/277lb-ft) | 2.5L 4-cyl (203hp/184lb-ft) |
| 0–100km/h | 9.26s | ~7s | ~8.4s |
| Fuel Economy | 9.0–9.8L/100km | 9.0–10.2L/100km | 7.8–8.5L/100km |
| Ground Clearance | 8.5in | 8.8in | 8.4in |
| Towing | 1,500lb | 2,200lb | 3,500lb |
| Cargo (seats down) | 63.5 cu.ft | 65.2 cu.ft | 69.8 cu.ft |
The AT4 lags in power, towing, and efficiency but offers strong tech.
Buyer’s Guide: Who Should Skip It?
- Performance Seekers: The Bronco Sport Badlands or Mazda CX-50 offer more power and sharper handling.
- Serious Off-Roaders: The Jeep Compass Trailhawk or Subaru Forester Wilderness provide better trail capability.
- Budget Buyers: The RAV4 Trail or Kia Sportage offer similar features and better efficiency for less.
- Long-Distance Drivers: Diesel or hybrid rivals like the Hyundai Tucson have better range for Outback trips.
- Consider If: You want a stylish, tech-loaded SUV for city driving and light trails in the Blue Mountains. Check GMC Australia or carsguide.com.au for updates.
About the Author
Driving Sports TV New car, truck and crossover reviews with a focus on off-road performance and adventures. YouTube Partner since 2007.
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Sources
- YouTube: “Will the 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 Complete Our Off-Road Test?” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PamqXQhnneo
- MotorTrend: https://www.motortrend.com
- Edmunds: https://www.edmunds.com
- Driving.ca: https://driving.ca
- GMC: https://www.gmc.com
- X Posts: Sentiment on AT4 styling and off-road limits
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