Last week, we broke the news that the 2027 Chevy Equinox is dropping its continuously variable transmission (CVT) and making the 8-speed automatic standard. Now, we can confirm that its premium corporate cousin is following exactly in its footsteps.
General Motors is rolling out a few key updates for the 2027 GMC Terrain, highlighted by the death of the CVT, shifting OnStar packaging, and the introduction of advanced camera technology.
Here is the complete breakdown of what to expect for the 2027 model year GMC Terrain.
The CVT is Officially Gone
Just like the Equinox, the biggest mechanical news for the 2027 Terrain is a subtraction. GM has officially deleted the (MRQ) CVT Transmission from the Terrain’s order guide.
While the official powertrain matrix hasn’t been fully detailed, the removal of the CVT strongly indicates that GMC is streamlining production and making the traditional 8-speed automatic transmission the standard gearbox across the entire Terrain lineup. For buyers who prefer the stepped, predictable shifting of a standard automatic over the drone of a CVT, this is a massive win.
New Tech: Tesla-Style Connected Cameras Arrive
As you can see in the video above, the 2027 Terrain is getting a massive boost in vehicle surveillance tech with the addition of (UCV) Connected Cameras capable.
If you are familiar with Tesla’s highly popular “Sentry Mode” and integrated dashcam setup, GM’s new Connected Cameras system is built on the exact same concept. Instead of wiring up a bulky aftermarket dashcam and suction-cupping it to your windshield, this factory system taps directly into the SUV’s built-in camera network.
By utilizing the exterior lenses from the HD Surround Vision system alongside an interior cabin camera, the Terrain can record a complete view of what is happening around—and inside—your vehicle. It acts as an integrated security guard, capable of capturing crash footage, recording security events if someone tampers with your SUV while it is parked, and giving you access to the live feeds through the myGMC mobile app.
However, GM does note in the order guide that this feature is currently listed as “Late availability.” This typically means early 2027 buyers will have the physical camera hardware installed at the factory, but the actual recording functionality will be unlocked later via a future over-the-air (OTA) software update. If this is a “must have” feature for you, ensure any 2027 Terrain you’re looking at has an interior camera up above the center console in the roof.
When it does officially go live, the Connected Cameras feature will be bundled inside the robust (CWN) Technology Package II.
What is Included in Technology Package II?
If you opt for the Tech Package II to get the new Connected Cameras, your Terrain will come absolutely loaded with active safety and visibility features. The package includes:
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(UVX) Traffic Sign Recognition
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(UKK) Rear Pedestrian Alert
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(UV2) HD Surround Vision
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(UCV) Connected Cameras capable (Exterior/Interior)
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(DRZ) Rear Camera Mirror
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(T3U) Front LED fog lamps
OnStar Packaging Updates
Finally, GMC is slightly tweaking how you pay for the brand’s connected services.
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(R9M) 3 Years OnStar One is no longer available on the rugged AT4 trim.
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Instead, (PRB) 3 Years OnStar One will now be offered as a standalone option for buyers who want to lock in their connected services upfront.
Next-Generation Terrain Specs & Pricing Breakdown
As a quick refresher on the vehicle itself, every next-generation GMC Terrain is powered by a standard 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 175 horsepower. Torque output depends on your drivetrain: FWD models produce 184 lb.-ft., while AWD models get a bump up to 203 lb.-ft. of torque.
If you are curious how the new lineup shakes out, GMC is offering the next-gen Terrain in three distinct flavors. Here is a look at the starting prices and key features for each trim:
Elevation
Starting at: $30,200
Serving as the entry point to the Terrain lineup, the Elevation comes packed with a surprising amount of standard tech.
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Key Standard Features: Heated front seats and steering wheel, a massive 15-inch diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment System, an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center, and over 16 standard safety and driver assistance features.
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Available Options: Two-tone roof, Wireless charging.
AT4
Starting at: $39,400
Built as the most capable Terrain ever, the AT4 includes all of the Elevation’s standard equipment, plus serious off-road upgrades.
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Key Standard Features: AT4-exclusive selectable Terrain drive mode, a lifted ride height with red front recovery hooks, a front skid plate with a steel underbody shield, and 17-inch Dark Machined aluminum wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
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Available Options: Two-tone roof, Panoramic sunroof.
Denali
Starting at: $41,900
Raising the bar for premium compact luxury, the top-tier Denali builds on the Elevation’s equipment list with high-end comfort and visibility tech.
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Key Standard Features: Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, signature animated headlamps and taillamps, High Definition Surround Vision, a Rear Camera Mirror, and 19-inch Midnight Silver machined-face aluminum wheels with all-season tires.
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Available Options: Panoramic sunroof, 20-inch After Midnight machined-face aluminum wheels.
(Note: Starting MSRP excludes destination freight charges, taxes, title, and dealer fees).
Join the Discussion
Are you glad to see the CVT go, or are you holding out for the new Connected Cameras?
Head over to the GM-Trucks.com forums to sound off on the 2027 updates. You can jump straight into the conversation with other buyers and enthusiasts in our dedicated 2025+ Chevy Equinox & GMC Terrain Forum.
Zane Merva is the Executive Editor of GM-Trucks.com and the President of the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA). A veteran automotive journalist with over 26 years of experience, Zane is a designated ‘Car Talk’ Expert and has been a contributor to The Boston Globe. He possesses a unique evaluative perspective, having road-tested more than 2,000 vehicles across every major manufacturer. While he is a recognized authority on General Motors truck platforms—including the Silverado, Sierra, and Colorado—his expertise is grounded in decades of deep competitive analysis that few in the industry can match. His commentary has been featured by major OEMs and media outlets, including Hyundai and PR Newswire