Truck showdown: gmc terrain vs sierra – which conquers the road?
What To Know
- 5-liter engine has a fuel economy rating of up to 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- 3-liter V6 engine has a fuel economy rating of up to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
- The GMC Terrain has a starting price of around $27,000, while the GMC Sierra has a starting price of around $32,000.
The GMC Terrain and Sierra are two highly regarded vehicles in the American automotive market, offering distinct characteristics and capabilities. If you’re considering a GMC SUV or pickup truck, understanding the key differences between these two models is crucial. This comprehensive comparison will explore the GMC Terrain vs Sierra in detail, providing you with the insights you need to make an informed decision.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV with a sleek and athletic exterior. Its sculpted lines, bold grille, and LED headlights give it a modern and sophisticated look. The GMC Sierra, on the other hand, is a full-size pickup truck with a rugged and muscular design. Its imposing grille, massive wheels, and high ground clearance exude strength and durability.
In terms of dimensions, the Terrain is smaller than the Sierra. The Terrain has a length of 182.3 inches, a width of 72.4 inches, and a height of 64.2 inches. The Sierra, on the other hand, is significantly larger, with a length of 231.7 inches, a width of 80.2 inches, and a height of 76.3 inches.
Interior Features and Technology
Inside, the GMC Terrain offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. The dashboard features a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, and the seats provide ample support and legroom. The GMC Sierra also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with a focus on durability and functionality. The dashboard is designed for ease of use, with large buttons and knobs, and the seats are designed for long hours of driving.
In terms of technology, both the Terrain and Sierra offer a range of advanced features. The Terrain comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a Bose premium audio system. The Sierra offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, as well as available features such as navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Bose premium audio system.
Powertrain and Performance
The GMC Terrain is available with a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The GMC Sierra offers a wider range of engine options, including a 4.3-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque, a 5.3-liter V8 engine with 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of performance, the Terrain provides a balanced driving experience with adequate power and agility. The Sierra, with its more powerful engine options, offers impressive towing and payload capacities, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
Off-Road Capabilities
The GMC Terrain offers decent off-road capabilities thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and available terrain management system. The Sierra, however, is the clear winner in terms of off-road performance. Its four-wheel-drive system, locking differentials, and available off-road suspension make it capable of tackling challenging terrain with confidence.
Fuel Economy
The GMC Terrain offers better fuel economy than the GMC Sierra due to its smaller size and lighter weight. The Terrain with the 1.5-liter engine has a fuel economy rating of up to 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The Sierra with the 4.3-liter V6 engine has a fuel economy rating of up to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The GMC Terrain has a starting price of around $27,000, while the GMC Sierra has a starting price of around $32,000. The price of both vehicles will vary depending on the trim level and options selected. In terms of value, the Terrain offers a competitive price for its size, features, and capabilities. The Sierra, on the other hand, offers exceptional value for those who need a versatile and capable pickup truck.
Wrap-Up: GMC Terrain vs Sierra – Which One is Right for You?
The GMC Terrain and Sierra are both excellent vehicles, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Terrain is ideal for those who want a compact and fuel-efficient SUV with a comfortable interior and advanced technology. The Sierra, on the other hand, is the perfect choice for those who need a rugged and capable pickup truck with exceptional towing and payload capacities.
Ultimately, the best way to decide between the GMC Terrain and Sierra is to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy, agility, and a comfortable driving experience, the Terrain is a great option. If you need a vehicle that can handle heavy-duty tasks, off-road adventures, and a spacious interior, the Sierra is the clear choice.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which vehicle has a better towing capacity?
A: The GMC Sierra has a significantly better towing capacity than the GMC Terrain, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,200 pounds.
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?
A: Both the GMC Terrain and Sierra offer comfortable interiors, but the Sierra has a more spacious and luxurious cabin, especially in the higher trim levels.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The GMC Terrain is more fuel-efficient than the GMC Sierra, with a better fuel economy rating of up to 30 mpg on the highway.