Sometimes the gap between the base and premium trims isn’t too much. Other times, there’s a pretty big gap. And when there is, it’s worth considering whether the premium trim is worth the extra money. If you’re looking at a 2024 GMC Terrain, you may wonder whether you’re better off with the base or top-level trim and just how much the top-level trim will cost.

A look at the base-level SLE trim on the 2024 GMC Terrain

To compare the lowest and highest level trims, first, look at the base-level SLE trim. GMC’s website tells us the FWD Terrain SLE starts at $30,095, though you’ll be paying $31,695 if you want AWD. Either way, your Terrain has a 1.5-liter Turbo 4-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain combo generates 175 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque and rides on 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Other highlights of the SLE include a 7-inch infotainment system, Bluetooth streaming audio, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker audio system. The SLE also has a 4.2-inch driver information screen, cruise control, and keyless entry.

For the safety-minded, the Terrain also comes with the GMC Pro Safety suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and lane-departure warning.

GMC offers one year of complimentary maintenance and three years / 36,000 miles worth of limited and corrosion protection warranties. The SLE also gets five years / 60,000 miles of coverage for the powertrain and roadside assistance. All in all, the total package is pretty good for $30,095. But for a bit more money, you can get a Terrain with many more features.

How much does the 2024 GMC Terrain Denali cost?

Pay an additional $10,000, and you can habe the top Denali trim. However, despite the extra money, the Denali still comes with the same powertrain. That means it’s underpowered compared to competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. But it does sport quite a few features that begin to justify the price hike.

The Denali offers an 8.0-inch touchscreen, which is better than the SLE’s but not competitive in this segment for a top trim. However, it offers onboard navigation, a head-up display, heated driver and front passenger seats, a heated steering wheel, and an 8-inch driver information display.

Dual-zone auto climate control, remote start, and wireless charging round out the highlights of the amenities of the Denali trim. And if they aren’t enough, this top-level trim also includes more advanced safety features than the SLE.

The Denali comes equipped with a rearview camera, front and rear parking assistance, rear cross-traffic alerts, teen driver controls, and three years of OnStar service. While the warranty information remains the same, the added advanced safety systems can help mitigate the risk of a serious accident.

How much does a fully loaded model cost?

But the Denali can be further customized for an upcharge over the $39,995 MSRP. Add a premium paint color like Ebony Twilight Metallic, Deep Bronze Metallic, or Downpour Metallic, and you’ll add an extra $495. But if you want Volcanic Red Tincoat, it costs $645. And the most expensive premium color is White Frost Tricoat at $1,095.

There are also several packages available, the most expensive of which is the Black Diamond Edition package. This comes with a power sunroof, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control, 19-inch painted wheels, auto parking assistance, and a 360-degree view camera.

The package costs $3,240 and requires selecting the $495 Ebony Twilight Metallic paint job. If you’re looking for adventure, you may also want to add the Hit the Road package, which adds roof rack cross rails and molded assist steps for $1,195. A floor liner package for $350 has floor liners, a cargo shade, and a retractable cargo net.

Add an engine block heater for an extra $100, and you’ve got the most expensive Terrain Denali available. The final price tag? $45,375, which, all features considered, is not much more expensive than the Denali without the upgrades. However, before you spend more than $45,000 on one, take it for a test drive through a few different terrains, given its relatively underpowered engine.