Lifted GMC Terrain Off road build on A/T Tires
IIf you like unique vehicles, appreciate diversity, and are eager to see vehicles never used for off-roading before, then you will definitely appreciate this lifted GMC Terrain off-road build by Zac Bacheller.
Unlike the early generations of this model, this top trim level 2019 model comes with an All-wheel-drive system and a dedicated Off-road mode, which means that the manufacturer equipped it with some basic tech for those who don’t mind getting their shiny GMC crossover dirty.
The Terrain
First of all, it would be pretty weird for a vehicle with such a name to not be competent at various types of terrain, yet in my opinion, such a name would better suit a dedicated off-road vehicle like the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler. Thankfully, the GMC marketing department knows it very well and did not forget to equip their compact crossover with all the basic tech required for driving off the paved roads.
Combining the benefits of a crossover with the style and functionality of an SUV, Terrain offers both uncompromised capability and a surprising level of standard content.
GMC Terrain Brochure
The fact that crossovers can do more than blasting through a snow-covered driveway no longer surprises anyone. Lifted Foresters, RAV4s, and Renegades are not an uncommon sight at mild trails and desolate camping spots, proving that AWD and a slightly bumped up ground clearance may be just enough to explore local trails, and it seems like this Terrain is not an exception.
The Build
Thanks to Zac’s adventurous and creative vision, the fact that no one really modified these crossovers for off-road use didn’t stop him from exploring the true capabilities of his GMC Terrain and outfitting it with must-have 4×4 mods.
As with any non-mainstream model, sourcing parts, particularly lift kits, may be a real challenge. Luckily, thanks to the great power of the internet, his search led him to a small company that offers a 1.25″ lift kit for these vehicles, which he then ordered and shipped from Dubai to the United States.
Suspension
Thanks to the installation of a Thema4x4 spacer lift that attaches on top of the struts, he managed to bump up the stock 7.9″ clearance to approximately 9″ overall, which made it equal to many bigger crossovers and SUVs. The lift slightly improved the approach and departure angles and freed up some space in the wheel wells for bigger tires.
After many off-road miles logged on the odometer, Zac realized that a simple spacer lift may not be allowing his Terrain to spread its wings to the full width, and decided to opt for a more serious solution that would enhance the articulation, damping, and overall handling on the trails. And so, the Flatout suspension GR lite 3″ adjustable coilovers with 1″ subframe drop spacers are being custom-built as you read this article.
Wheels
To maintain optimal tire profile and allow airing down when things get tricky, it was decided to stick with the 17″ wheel diameter and install a set of aftermarket Voxx Monte rims for more style.
For the tires, Zac chose a set of slightly wider than stock 235/65R17 Falken Wildpeak A/T trail off-road tires to gain a larger tire contact patch zone and improve traction on rough terrain.
Among other goodies are the Auxbeam 4″ ditch lights to light up the trail roads at night, OEM crossbars, and a whole bunch of other cool stuff ordered for new off-road adventures.
List of Off-road Mods & Upgrades
2019 terrain 2.0T awd with off-road mode
Performance
- Trifecta Advantage tune
- K&N intake
Lift
- 1.25″ lift by Tema4x4
Wheels & Tires
- 235/65 Falken Wildpeak A/T trail
- 17″ Voxx Monte Wheels
Lights
- Auxbeam 4″ ditch lights
Gear
- OEM cross bars
- James Baroud Odyssey tent (sold)
Future mods
- Ironman Ursa 1300 tent (already ordered)
- Flatout suspension GR lite 3″ adjustable coilovers with 1″ subframe drop spacers (being custom built as we speak)
- Auxbeam switch panel
- (2) Auxbeam 4″ square ditch lights – already bought
- (6) Auxbeam 4″ V-max pod lights with a custom light bar (being built by a buddy)
- (2) OEM fog light inserts wire to switch panel
Conclusion
Zac Bacheller’s GMC Terrain build shows that unconventional models can be confidently used for recreational off-roading with the right modifications. This project challenges preconceptions about crossover capabilities, demonstrating that with vision and determination, even unlikely candidates can become capable trail machines. Zac’s journey from a stock Terrain to a custom AWD off-roader showcases the untapped potential in modern crossovers. His build serves as inspiration for other Terrain owners looking to push boundaries of thier vehicles and explore treails they never new were possible behind the wheel of a GMC Terrain.
