Terrain vs atlas: battle of the midsize suv titans – discover the winner!
What To Know
- The Atlas with the V6 engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings, at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
- The Atlas has a larger touchscreen than the Terrain, and it also offers a premium sound system as an option.
- The Volkswagen Atlas has a higher towing capacity than the GMC Terrain, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Terrain’s 3,500 pounds.
In the competitive midsize SUV segment, the GMC Terrain and Volkswagen Atlas stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, performance, and features. However, each SUV has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the GMC Terrain and Volkswagen Atlas, helping you make an informed decision on which midsize SUV is right for you.
Exterior Design
The GMC Terrain sports a rugged and muscular exterior, featuring a bold grille and sharp lines. The Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, exudes a more refined and sophisticated look, with a sleek profile and elegant curves. Both SUVs offer a range of exterior colors and trim levels to cater to different tastes.
Interior Space and Comfort
The GMC Terrain offers a spacious and comfortable interior with ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and provide excellent support. The Volkswagen Atlas provides even more interior space, with a third row of seating available as an option. The Atlas also boasts a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials and a user-friendly dashboard.
Performance and Handling
The GMC Terrain comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is available as an upgrade, offering 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Volkswagen Atlas offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both SUVs provide smooth and responsive handling, although the Terrain feels more agile and sporty.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many SUV buyers. The GMC Terrain with the 1.5-liter engine achieves an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The Volkswagen Atlas with the 2.0-liter engine gets an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Atlas with the V6 engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings, at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the GMC Terrain and Volkswagen Atlas come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. The Terrain also offers a variety of advanced safety features as options, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Atlas comes standard with some of these features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Technology and Connectivity
The GMC Terrain and Volkswagen Atlas are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and connectivity features. Both SUVs offer intuitive infotainment systems with touchscreens, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The Atlas has a larger touchscreen than the Terrain, and it also offers a premium sound system as an option.
Price and Value
The GMC Terrain has a starting price of around $26,000, while the Volkswagen Atlas starts at around $32,000. The Terrain offers a more affordable entry point, while the Atlas provides a more luxurious experience. However, both SUVs offer excellent value for their respective price ranges.
Which Midsize SUV is Right for You?
The GMC Terrain and Volkswagen Atlas are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Terrain is a more affordable and sporty option, while the Atlas offers more space, luxury, and advanced safety features. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, agility, and fuel efficiency, the GMC Terrain is a great choice. If you prefer a more spacious, luxurious, and technologically advanced SUV, the Volkswagen Atlas is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which SUV has better towing capacity?
The Volkswagen Atlas has a higher towing capacity than the GMC Terrain, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Terrain’s 3,500 pounds.
2. Which SUV offers more interior storage space?
The Volkswagen Atlas offers more interior storage space than the GMC Terrain, with a total cargo capacity of 96.8 cubic feet compared to the Terrain’s 63.3 cubic feet.
3. Which SUV has a better warranty coverage?
Both the GMC Terrain and Volkswagen Atlas offer a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, Volkswagen also offers a 2-year/24,000-mile scheduled maintenance coverage, which is not included with the GMC Terrain.