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Are you interested in owning a GMC model with the luxurious Denali nameplate? It’s the range-topping trim level for every GMC vehicle. However, only one SUV in the lineup remains affordable, even for the highest trim level. Buying the 2022 GMC Terrain Denali is surprisingly affordable, but it still comes well-equipped. The GMC Terrain offers the cheapest Denali trim out of all vehicles from the automaker.

Cheapest GMC model with a Denali trim

Black 2022 GMC Terrain on the highway
2022 GMC Terrain | GMC

The cheapest model in the GMC lineup is the 2022 GMC Terrain SUV. Although it is a small SUV, it’s surprisingly spacious, and the interior is high quality. Moreover, it remains affordable throughout its entire lineup of trim levels. Capped off with the desirable Denali trim, the Terrain is still significantly less expensive than other GMCs. For example, the Terrain Denali starts at $36,600, while the next step up, the Acadia, is $46,600.

From there, the GMC lineup is much more expensive. The Yukon Denali exceeds the $70,000 mark for SUVs, and pickup trucks aren’t much different. For the cheapest GMC truck, the Canyon, the Denali model starts at $41,200. At first glance, you’d think that being the cheapest makes the Terrain the worst. However, it’s surprising how well-equipped and, frankly, underrated the 2022 GMC Terrain actually is.

How much is a 2022 GMC Terrain?

2022 GMC Terrain Denali small SUV parked outside. It's the cheapest GMC model with a Denali trim.
2022 GMC Terrain Denali | GMC

According to Edmunds, the base model Terrain starts at $29,095. That’s easily one of the most affordable luxury-level SUVs available. The SLE trim starts under $30K but remains riddled with exciting features that make it worth buying. This isn’t just an upgrade over its Chevrolet equivalent. Every Terrain SLE gets Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, a Wi-Fi hotspot, heated mirrors, LED exterior lighting, proximity keyless entry, push-button ignition, and more.

From there, the lineup doesn’t jump in price very much. There’s an SLT, AT4, and Denali trim that cap off just below $37,000. Does GMC do enough to upgrade these models that only range about an $8,000 difference from the bottom to the top of the lineup?

2022 GMC Terrain trimPrice
SLE$29,095
SLT$33,095
AT4$35,195
Denali$37,795
Prices + destination fees from Edmunds.

Is the cheapest Denali worth it?

According to Edmunds, the Denali is packed with extra features. Mainly, it adds luxury and technology to the mix of items already included with lower trims. Every GMC Terrain Denali has navigation, a Bose premium audio system, an HD radio, a wireless charging pad, an upgraded driver information display, and a head-up display. Next, safety driver assist features like blind-spot monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and a safety alert seat enters the lineup with the Denali trim.

Already equipped with things from the SLT trim like a hands-free tailgate, remote ignition, and more, the Denali is the height of luxury. It’s also the only trim level with available ventilated front seats as an option. However, options for every Terrain trim include a sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view monitor.

GMC model with the cheapest Denali trim

In conclusion, the 2022 GMC Terrain Denali is the cheapest way to get a Denali model. It’s more affordable than the Yukon, Acadia, Canyon, and other pickups in the GMC lineup. Fortunately, even as the least expensive Denali variant, it comes well-equipped. All versions of the Terrain are surprisingly affordable with an even more surprising number of features. All for under $40,000? You can’t go wrong with the luxury version of this small SUV.

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