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The GMC Terrain is one of the rare small SUVs that stays reasonably affordable with all trim levels. Among its luxury competitors, it’s one of the cheapest options by far. However, there are four different trim levels, and two are much more expensive than the others. Many different trim levels are available, so choosing the one with the most value can be challenging. Which is better: the 2022 GMC Terrain SLE or SLT?

2022 GMC Terrain SLE base model standard features

A black 2022 GMC Terrain driving. Is the SLE or SLT trim better?
2022 GMC Terrain | GMC

First, every version of the Terrain uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. In addition, front-wheel drive is standard, with optional all-wheel drive available. However, the top two trims come with standard AWD. According to Edmunds, the Terrain SLE starts at $29,095 and is the most popular trim level. Are the standard features good enough to sell better than the SLT?

Buying a base model 2022 GMC Terrain SLE gets you many impressive features. For example, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, 7-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, keyless entry, push-button ignition, forward collision mitigation, and lane keeping assist are standard. Plus, simple convenience items like LED exterior lighting, heated mirrors, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror bolster the lineup of features.

The Terrain SLT trim adds even more features

A red 2022 GMC Terrain driving on the road. Is the SLE or SLT trim levels the better choice?
2022 GMC Terrain | GMC

One step up from the base model is the 2022 GMC Terrain SLT. Starting at $33,095, it’s only a few thousand dollars more expensive than the SLE. Luckily, it comes with plenty of technology and convenience features to ensure it’s worth the price of admission. We think the long list of additional features is worth the minimal increase in price to the SLT trim level.

Buying a Terrain SLT gives owners a hands-free tailgate, roof rails, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded eight-inch touchscreen, additional USB ports, and leather upholstery. If that isn’t enough, it also comes with a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, power-adjustable and heated front seats, driver’s seat memory, a power outlet, a universal garage door opener, and a high-definition rearview camera. In short, the SLT upgrade gains many excellent features unavailable for the SLE base model.

Is the 2022 GMC Terrain SLE or SLT better?

Buying a 2022 GMC Terrain and choosing the perfect trim can be challenging. However, the choice is easy for the two more affordable trim levels, SLE and SLT. We think the SLT trim adds much more bang for your buck. Although the SLE base model is well-equipped for the price, buying a Terrain SLT only costs a little more money and adds so much more. In addition, experts like Edmunds recommend the SLT trim out of all the options. Edmunds cites a notably nicer interior with leather and extra features as the primary reason.

In conclusion, the 2022 GMC Terrain lineup has four different trim levels. They are SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Moreover, the two upper trims are a little expensive, so the two base models are much more value-packed. Buying an SLE or SLT trim grants owners access to a library of features, but the SLT model provides more. Get the most out of your GMC Terrain with the SLT, not the SLE.

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