gmc breaks new ground with the launch of new terrain compact suv in the uae
The Terrain, first ever compact SUV to complement GMC Professional Grade line-up
Lifestyle approach catering to the young and trendy and small families
GMC’s first ever compact SUV, the brand new Terrain was officially launched in the UAE last week at a major Ride & Drive event across the scenic routes from Dubai to Fujeirah. With the new Terrain compact SUV, GMC is ready to meet future customer demand in the fast growing compact SUV segment in combining the versatility of an SUV with the driving dynamism of a sedan.
After making its global debut at the 9th Middle East International Motor Show last November, the Terrain will add yet another professional grade SUV to GMC’s existing line-up of Acadia, Sierra, Envoy, Yukon, Yukon XL and the Denali models.
Marketing Director of General Motors in the Middle East David Venticich, explains the benefits of the new Terrain: “The dynamic five-seat Terrain blends roominess and comfort with elegance and practicality. It challenges the traditional compromise of vehicle choice faced by demanding modern lifestyles, offering space and comfort in an elegant, dynamic exterior. The Terrain thus provides the answer to emotional desires and useful necessity.”
He added: “The Terrain has an impressive muscular stance when seen on the road. It will undoubtedly appeal to customers who require a dramatic visual impact without compromising on practicality.”
In fact, it is the perfect vehicle for those wanting to make the shift from a sedan to a compact SUV. Women will appreciate the style and convenience that Terrain offers, as well as the generous interior with its numerous compartments and the many clever and practical features. With contoured seats and a smart interior, the Terrain is a lifestyle vehicle that can play many roles. With its multi-use concept it can be used for work, extensive shopping tours, family holidays as well as for numerous other leisure activities.
A long wheelbase, reduced front and rear overhangs and a wide stance enable ensure optimum levels of interior space, increased comfort and a large loading capacity without compromising the fundamental proportions inherent to an SUV.
This compact SUV is available with a choice of two powerplants catering to different needs of customers. The base engine is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder unit generating 141hp and 222 N-m of torque, while the 3.2-litre V6 develops 223hp and 299.7 N-m of torque. Both engines are mated to a five-speed automatic gearbox. The Terrain has AWD (All Wheel Drive) underlining its sporty character with passenger car-like driving performance.
The Terrain’s striking design heralds the introduction of a new-style generation of GMC products for the Middle East, both inside and out it features design cues that portray strong characteristics. Examples include the strong ‘face’ of the brand incorporating a prominent GMC logo; the fascia design with integrated in-car entertainment and unambiguous controls, clear and informative instrumentation and details on the door cases, seats and console. Combining new high quality materials and close attention to fit and finish, the Terrain is a high quality product that belies its great value pricing.
On the outside, Terrain also adds the durable and rugged look of integrated ‘skid’ panels in front and rear bumpers and contrasting dark sill and wheel arch mouldings. Jewel-like headlights and taillights add to the overall good looks.
The GMC Terrain’s safety features include a modern ESP system that further increases active safety, including Descent Control System (DCS), in addition to dual-stage front and side-impact airbags for driver and front passenger, curtain airbags for the front and outer rear seats as well as a crash-optimized chassis with four load paths.
The rest of the GMC Professional Grade line-up for 2008 consists of:
GMC Acadia
Introduced in 2007, the Acadia debuted as GMC’s first foray into the crossover SUV market, offering seating for up to eight and combining the practicality of an SUV with a smooth ride and responsive handling. Acadia is offered in SLE 1, SLE 2 and SLT trims, with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. Responsive performance in all models is derived from GM’s 3.6-litre V6 VVT, rated at 275 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque.
GMC Envoy & Envoy Denali
GMC’s midsize SUVs move into the 2008 model year with minor refinements that enhance convenience, style and safety, including standard head curtain air bags.
Envoy and Envoy Denali are offered in a roomy, midsize package that rides on a 2,869 mm wheelbase. The robust Vortec 4.2-litre six-cylinder is standard in Envoy models, while the powerful Vortec 5.3-litre V8 is standard fitment on Envoy Denali. Both vehicles come with an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission and are available in 2WD and 4WD models.
GMC Yukon & Yukon XL
Last year, the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL full-size SUVs introduced a six-speed automatic transmission with a powerful 6.0L V8 engine. The Yukon and Yukon XL feature distinctive styling, spacious and refined interiors, exceptional driving characteristics and segment-leading safety features.
GMC Yukon Denali & Yukon XL Denali
GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali are the flagships of GMC’s family of professional grade vehicles, offering a unique blend of style, performance and refinement. Performance is derived from a 6.2L all-aluminium small-block V8 engine mated to a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. The 6.2L engine is rated at 380 horsepower – making it the most powerful in its class.
GMC Sierra
Launched last year, the industry’s acclaimed best pick-up GMC Sierra incorporates enhanced exterior and interior designs, powertrain, chassis and safety systems. Sierra is available in several trim packages, including Work Truck, SL (crew cab only), SLE and SLT, along with 2WD and 4WD configurations. Three cab styles – regular, extended and crew cab – and three cargo box lengths – 5 foot 8 inches, 6 foot 6 inches and 8 foot – are offered.
