With production of the next-gen 2025 Terrain currently scheduled to kick off later this year, the 2024 GMC Terrain will stand as the final model year of the second-generation model. Today, GM Authority is taking a closer look at 2024 Terrain drive modes with the following explainer.
The 2024 GMC Terrain is available with up to five drive modes, including Tour (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Snow / Ice, Off-Road and Tow / Haul. The Driver Mode Control knob is located on the center console and can be rotated to make a selection, with the selected mode’s icon lighting up on the knob and a message displayed in the Driver Information Center.
It’s worth noting that if the vehicle is in Tour (FWD) or AWD mode, it will stay in said mode through future on / off cycles. Meanwhile, if the Terrain is left in any other mode, it will revert back to Tour (FWD) when restarted.
Tour
Tour Mode is used during normal driving conditions. As the most fuel efficient drive mode, Tour either puts the Terrain in FWD if it’s equipped with the AWD drivetrain, or is the normal drive mode for FWD-equipped vehicles.
AWD
AWD Mode is used to improve traction and control on slippery road surfaces, such as gravel, sand, wet pavement, snow, and ice by directing power to all four wheels. When selecting this drive mode, the AWD light will briefly flash while the system is engaging and then stay on to indicate that AWD is active. AWD Mode is active during Tow / Haul and Off-Road Modes, and only available on properly equipped Terrain units. If a compact spare tire is detected, the system will automatically reduce AWD performance to protect the drivetrain.
Snow
Snow Mode is used to improve acceleration on snow and ice-covered roads, and is not offered on Terrain examples equipped with AWD.
Off-Road
Off-Road Mode is used for public all-terrain recreational driving, and is only offered on vehicles equipped with AWD. This mode is designed to help improve traction, maneuverability and handling confidence in off-road conditions such as gravel, sand and mud.
Tow / Haul
Tow / Haul Mode is used when towing or hauling a heavy load. Only available on 2024 GMC Terrain units equipped with the towing package, this drive mode changes transmission shift patterns, turns on AWD if equipped, and increases trailer sway control assistance.
| Mode | Tour | AWD | Snow | Off-Road | Tow/Haul |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mode Availability | AWD & FWD | AWD | FWD | AWD | Towing Package (AWD & FWD) |
| Retained Across Ignition Cycles | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Pedal Map | Normal | Normal | Off-Road | Off-Road | Normal |
| Auto Transmission Schedule | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Tow/Haul |
| AWD (If Equipped) | Normal FWD | Normal FWD | N/A | Off-Road AWD | Normal AWD |
| Steering | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Tow/Haul |
| Trailer Sway Control | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Tow/Haul |
| StabiliTrak Setting | Normal | Normal | Normal | Off-Road | Normal |
| Traction Control Setting | Normal | Normal | Normal | Off-Road | Normal |
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Comments
a 1.5 L motor… earth shattering.
I like that AWD is remembered for next time. This is useful for the winter season.
can you use the off road mode on snow and ice onditions while driving on the road…? does this just disable traction control for better traction…?