Suv showdown: gmc terrain vs chevy equinox – which compact reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Terrain received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all six IIHS crash tests.
- The Equinox also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all six IIHS crash tests.
- The Chevrolet Equinox has a slightly more spacious interior than the GMC Terrain, with more legroom in the rear seats.
In the competitive world of compact SUVs, the GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox stand out as two popular choices. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, style, and performance. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the GMC Terrain vs. Equinox head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The GMC Terrain boasts a bold and muscular exterior with a wide stance and aggressive lines. Its signature C-shaped LED headlights and chrome grille give it a premium look. In contrast, the Equinox has a more conservative design with a sleek silhouette and subtle curves. Its chrome accents and LED taillights add a touch of sophistication.
Interior Space and Comfort
Inside, the Terrain offers ample room for passengers and cargo. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with plenty of headroom and legroom. The rear seats provide good legroom but can feel a bit cramped for taller individuals. The Equinox has a slightly smaller interior but still offers comfortable seating for five. Its rear seats are more spacious than the Terrain’s, making it a better choice for families.
Technology and Features
Both the Terrain and Equinox come well-equipped with a range of technology and features. The Terrain features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Bose premium audio system. The Equinox offers a similar infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, but its Bose audio system is optional. Both vehicles also offer a variety of driver-assist features, such as lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Terrain offers two engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The Equinox has a similar engine lineup, with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive as an option.
The Terrain’s 1.5-liter engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, while the 2.0-liter engine offers more punch for highway passing and towing. The Equinox’s 1.5-liter engine is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Terrain’s, but the 2.0-liter engine has a higher towing capacity.
Safety Ratings
Both the GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Terrain received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all six IIHS crash tests. The Equinox also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all six IIHS crash tests.
Price and Value
The GMC Terrain has a slightly higher starting price than the Chevrolet Equinox. However, it also comes with more standard features, such as a sunroof, heated front seats, and a Bose audio system. The Equinox offers a better value for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and interior space.
Which One is Right for You?
The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox are both excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Terrain is the better choice for those who prioritize bold styling, a premium interior, and powerful performance. The Equinox is the better choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a more affordable price.
Final Verdict: GMC Terrain vs. Equinox
Ultimately, the best choice between the GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a stylish and capable SUV with a premium interior, the Terrain is the way to go. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a more affordable price, the Equinox is the better choice.
Popular Questions
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Chevrolet Equinox has slightly better fuel economy than the GMC Terrain, with the 1.5-liter engine achieving up to 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Chevrolet Equinox has a slightly more spacious interior than the GMC Terrain, with more legroom in the rear seats.
Q: Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
A: The GMC Terrain has a higher towing capacity than the Chevrolet Equinox, with the 2.0-liter engine capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.
Q: Which SUV has more standard features?
A: The GMC Terrain comes with more standard features than the Chevrolet Equinox, including a sunroof, heated front seats, and a Bose audio system.
Q: Which SUV has a higher starting price?
A: The GMC Terrain has a slightly higher starting price than the Chevrolet Equinox, with the base model starting at around $29,000.