Suv showdown: gmc terrain vs santa fe – battle for the best in class
What To Know
- In terms of horsepower and torque, the Terrain and Santa Fe are closely matched, with the Santa Fe’s V6 offering a slight edge in both categories.
- The Santa Fe, on the other hand, has a more luxurious and spacious interior, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort.
- The Terrain provides a rugged and capable SUV at a competitive price, while the Santa Fe offers a more luxurious and spacious SUV with a slightly higher price tag.
The midsize SUV market is a fiercely competitive battleground, with automakers vying for the attention of discerning drivers. Two prominent contenders in this segment are the GMC Terrain and the Hyundai Santa Fe. Both vehicles boast impressive features, capabilities, and styles, making the choice between them a challenging one. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the GMC Terrain and Santa Fe, providing you with the insights needed to make an informed decision.
Performance and Capabilities
Engine Options and Power
The GMC Terrain offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.6-liter V6. The Santa Fe, on the other hand, provides a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.5-liter V6. In terms of horsepower and torque, the Terrain and Santa Fe are closely matched, with the Santa Fe’s V6 offering a slight edge in both categories.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many SUV buyers. The GMC Terrain with the 1.5-liter engine delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The Santa Fe with the 2.5-liter engine offers comparable fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Towing Capacity
If towing is a priority, the GMC Terrain has a slight advantage over the Santa Fe. The Terrain can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the Santa Fe’s maximum towing capacity is 3,200 pounds.
Interior: Comfort and Convenience
Space and Seating
The GMC Terrain and Santa Fe offer spacious interiors with ample seating for five passengers. The Terrain provides 39.7 inches of headroom and 40.8 inches of legroom in the front, while the Santa Fe offers 40.4 inches of headroom and 44.1 inches of legroom. The second row of the Terrain provides 39.7 inches of headroom and 39.7 inches of legroom, while the Santa Fe offers 38.2 inches of headroom and 41.3 inches of legroom.
Cargo Space
When it comes to cargo space, the GMC Terrain offers 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row of seats and 63.3 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The Santa Fe provides 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row of seats and 72.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down.
Features and Technology
Both the GMC Terrain and Santa Fe come equipped with a range of standard and available features, including infotainment systems, climate control, and safety technologies. The Terrain features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. The Santa Fe comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
The GMC Terrain and Santa Fe have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and traction control.
Reliability
According to J.D. Power, the GMC Terrain and Santa Fe have comparable reliability ratings. Both vehicles have received above-average scores in terms of dependability and overall owner satisfaction.
Design and Styling
Exterior
The GMC Terrain and Santa Fe feature distinct exterior designs. The Terrain has a rugged and muscular appearance, with a bold grille and sharp lines. The Santa Fe, on the other hand, has a more refined and elegant look, with a sleek grille and flowing lines.
Interior
The interiors of the GMC Terrain and Santa Fe reflect their different design philosophies. The Terrain has a functional and utilitarian feel, with a focus on durability and ease of use. The Santa Fe, on the other hand, has a more luxurious and spacious interior, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort.
Pricing and Value
Starting Prices
The GMC Terrain has a starting price of around $27,000, while the Santa Fe has a starting price of around $28,000.
Value for Money
Both the GMC Terrain and Santa Fe offer good value for money. The Terrain provides a rugged and capable SUV at a competitive price, while the Santa Fe offers a more luxurious and spacious SUV with a slightly higher price tag.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
The choice between the GMC Terrain and Santa Fe ultimately depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you prioritize performance, towing capacity, and ruggedness, the Terrain is an excellent choice. If you prioritize comfort, space, and luxury, the Santa Fe is a better option.
Top Questions Asked
Which SUV has better fuel economy?
The GMC Terrain with the 1.5-liter engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Santa Fe with the 2.5-liter engine.
Which SUV has more cargo space?
The Santa Fe has more cargo space than the Terrain, both behind the second row of seats and with the second row folded down.
Which SUV has a more powerful V6 engine?
The Santa Fe‘s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces more horsepower and torque than the Terrain’s 3.6-liter V6 engine.
