2017 GMC Terrain SLE-2

2017 GMC Terrain SLE2: The "Professional Grade" Sweet Spot
The 2017 GMC Terrain SLE2 represents the final, most refined year of the first-generation Terrain. While many compact SUVs aim for a soft, car-like appearance, the Terrain stands out with its bold, squared-off fenders and commanding "Professional Grade" aesthetic. The SLE2 trim is widely considered the "sweet spot" of the 2017 lineup, offering a significant jump in premium features and technology over the base models without the higher price tag of the Denali.
Distinctive Presence and Design
The 2017 model benefited from a styling refresh that added a more modern 3-element grille and LED daytime running lamps. In the SLE2 trim, you get:
Bold Exterior Touches: Chrome accents and luggage rails that emphasize its rugged, truck-inspired roots.
Premium Cabin Materials: The SLE2 replaces the base cloth with premium cloth upholstery and adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, immediately elevating the tactile experience of the interior.
Best-in-Class Versatility: The Multi-Flex Seat
The Terrain’s "secret weapon" is the Multi-Flex rear seat system. The entire rear bench can slide forward or backward by nearly eight inches.
Passenger Mode: Slide it all the way back to provide nearly 40 inches of rear legroom—space that rivals full-size luxury sedans.
Cargo Mode: Slide it forward to expand the cargo area for grocery hauls or sports gear without having to fold the seats down.
Technology and Comfort Upgrades
The "2" in SLE2 brings several high-value upgrades that make a massive difference in daily drivability:
IntelliLink Infotainment: An intuitive 7-inch color touchscreen that includes Bluetooth streaming and voice command integration.
Pioneer® Premium Audio: A standard 8-speaker system with a dedicated subwoofer that provides deep, crisp sound, turning the quiet cabin into a mobile concert hall.
Automatic Climate Control: A "set-it-and-forget-it" system that keeps the cabin at your perfect temperature regardless of the unpredictable New York weather.
Performance and Capability
The 2017 Terrain SLE2 comes standard with the efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine, but it was also available with the class-leading 3.6L V6.
The V6 Powerhouse: Producing a whopping 301 horsepower, the V6 transforms the Terrain into one of the quickest vehicles in its class, capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs.
Refined Ride: GMC’s focus on "QuietTuning" means the 2017 model is exceptionally hushed on the highway, with triple-sealed doors and an acoustic-laminated windshield that isolates you from road noise.
The Verdict
The 2017 GMC Terrain SLE2 is for the buyer who wants a compact SUV that doesn't feel "small." It offers a substantial, secure feeling on the road, a highly flexible interior for growing families, and a level of standard tech that remains impressive years later. If you want the rugged looks of a GMC truck with the maneuverability and efficiency of a crossover, the SLE2 is the perfect balance of both worlds.