Gmc terrain vs nissan x-trail: the battle of midsize suvs

The automotive industry is a fiercely competitive landscape, with manufacturers constantly striving to outdo each other in terms of performance, features, and design. When it comes to midsize SUVs, two of the most popular contenders are the GMC Terrain and the Nissan X-Trail. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and off-road capability. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll delve into the key differences between the GMC Terrain and the Nissan X-Trail, helping you make an informed decision about your next SUV purchase.

Performance: Power and Efficiency Under the Hood

Engine Options:

• GMC Terrain: 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 (175 hp, 203 lb-ft torque) or 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (252 hp, 260 lb-ft torque)
• Nissan X-Trail: 2.5L inline-4 (181 hp, 181 lb-ft torque) or 2.5L supercharged inline-4 (212 hp, 225 lb-ft torque)

Fuel Economy:

• GMC Terrain: 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (1.5L); 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (2.0L)
• Nissan X-Trail: 25 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (2.5L); 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (2.5L supercharged)

Interior: Comfort, Convenience, and Cargo Capacity

Passenger Space:

• GMC Terrain: 98.3 cu. ft. of passenger volume
• Nissan X-Trail: 104.5 cu. ft. of passenger volume

Cargo Space:

• GMC Terrain: 29.6 cu. ft. behind the second row; 63.3 cu. ft. with the second row folded
• Nissan X-Trail: 11.9 cu. ft. behind the third row; 40.9 cu. ft. behind the second row; 65.5 cu. ft. with the second row folded

Features:

• GMC Terrain: 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bose audio system, heated/ventilated front seats
• Nissan X-Trail: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bose audio system, heated/ventilated front seats, panoramic moonroof

Safety: Protecting What Matters Most

Standard Safety Features:

• GMC Terrain: Automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, forward collision alert
• Nissan X-Trail: Automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring

Advanced Safety Features (Optional):

• GMC Terrain: Adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, surround-view camera
• Nissan X-Trail: Adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, surround-view camera, lane keep assist

Off-Road Capability: Exploring the Great Outdoors

Ground Clearance:

• GMC Terrain: 8.1 inches
• Nissan X-Trail: 8.5 inches

Four-Wheel Drive:

• GMC Terrain: Available with all-wheel drive
• Nissan X-Trail: Standard with front-wheel drive; available with all-wheel drive

Off-Road Modes:

• GMC Terrain: Terrain mode, sport mode
• Nissan X-Trail: Auto, snow, sand, mud/rut, tow modes

Technology: Staying Connected and Entertained

Infotainment System:

• GMC Terrain: GMC Infotainment System with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Nissan X-Trail: NissanConnect infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Connectivity Features:

• GMC Terrain: Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth, USB ports
• Nissan X-Trail: Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth, USB ports, wireless charging

Pricing and Trim Levels

GMC Terrain:

• SLE: $27,900
• SLT: $32,900
• Denali: $39,300

Nissan X-Trail:

• S: $26,990
• SV: $30,590
• SL: $34,790
• Platinum: $38,990

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Ride for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice between the GMC Terrain and the Nissan X-Trail depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you prioritize performance, the GMC Terrain with its powerful engine options has the edge. If interior space and cargo capacity are your main concerns, the Nissan X-Trail offers more roominess. Both vehicles provide a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the Nissan X-Trail has a slight advantage with its standard blind-spot monitoring. When it comes to off-road capability, the Nissan X-Trail’s additional ground clearance and terrain modes give it a slight edge. In terms of technology, both vehicles offer similar infotainment systems and connectivity features. Pricing is comparable, with the Nissan X-Trail offering a slightly lower starting price.

Information You Need to Know

1. Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
Both the GMC Terrain and Nissan X-Trail offer comparable fuel economy, with the GMC Terrain slightly edging out the Nissan X-Trail in highway fuel economy.

2. Which vehicle has more cargo space?
The Nissan X-Trail offers more cargo space than the GMC Terrain, especially with the third row of seats folded down.

3. Which vehicle has more powerful engine options?
The GMC Terrain offers more powerful engine options, including a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 with 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

4. Which vehicle has a better warranty?
Both the GMC Terrain and Nissan X-Trail offer a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

5. Which vehicle is better for off-roading?
The Nissan X-Trail has a slight edge in off-roading capability due to its higher ground clearance and terrain modes.