In a GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox comparison, two compact SUV cousins match up. They share virtually identical performance specs, but the Terrain offers a more spacious cabin, more screen space, more access to high-end features, more safety options, stronger tech, and an off-road-centric trim. The Chevrolet Equinox falls short in most categories.
Durability, compact versatility, and innovative tech are all important metrics in a GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox comparison. These two durable compact crossover SUV models offer a great entry point into their respective brands, and they share performance specs. However, from the more expansive front-row legroom of 44 inches to the more impressive suite of technology (including a standard 15-inch central touchscreen), the GMC Terrain takes a definitive lead.
At Generation Buick GMC, we know why the Terrain stands out. Let's explore why you'll want to choose the GMC model over the Chevy.
Both the new GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox share a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes up to 175 horsepower and up to 203 pound-feet of torque. This engine prioritizes efficiency with almost the exact same results, with the Terrain boasting up to an EPA-estimated 26/28/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 and the Equinox rated up to 26/29/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
The engine can also tow up to 1,500 pounds with AWD, a drivetrain standard on two of the three Terrain trims – and only available as an upgrade on all Equinox levels.
| Terrain vs. Equinox Performance | ||
|
GMC Terrain
|
Chevy Equinox
|
|
| Engine | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 175 | 175 |
| Torque |
|
|
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | FWD, AWD avail | FWD, AWD avail |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 26 / 28 / 271 | 26 / 29 / 272 |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (AWD)3 | 1,500 lbs (AWD)4 |
The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox share a few aspects of dimensions, such as a 107.5-inch wheelbase. However, the GMC Terrain has a tighter, more efficient exterior, with a 181-inch length (compared to 183.2 inches for the Chevy Equinox). That's exactly what you want for an SUV that can off-road and commute, helping you navigate around obstacles or find parking spaces with ease.
However, despite its smaller and more maneuverable body, the GMC Terrain still offers a more comfortable cabin, with 44 inches of front-row legroom and the exact same cargo space of up to 63.5 cubic feet. For interior comfort, both models are competitive, but the Terrain gives you a bit more.
| Terrain vs. Equinox Size, Side by Side | ||
|
GMC Terrain
|
Chevy Equinox
|
|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 107.5 in | 107.5 in |
| Length | 181 in | 183.2 in |
| Width | 74.5 in | 74.9 in |
| Height | 65.8 - 66.2 in | 65.6 in |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) |
|
|
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 44 / 39.7 in | 40.9 / 39.9 in |
| Cargo Space | 29.8 / 63.5 cu ft | 29.8 / 63.5 cu ft |
Both the GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox come in three trim levels. However, the Chevy Equinox takes things easy, with three simple choices:
These trims do their jobs, upgrading features and safety options slightly with each step.
The GMC Terrain not only has trims with features beyond what the Chevy Equinox offers, but it also boasts a specialized trim dedicated to off-roading: the GMC Terrain AT4. And both the AT4 and Denali come with standard AWD.
Like in our Terrain vs. Acadia comparison, the GMC lineup specializes in high-end quality. However, the AT4 boasts off-road options like skid plates, ride-lifting suspension, and standard AWD. The Equinox ACTIV offers some off-road elements, but no skid plates or lift, which leaves a lot to be desired.
The GMC Terrain is an upgrade over the Chevy Equinox in almost every way inside the cabin. The Equinox has an 11.3-inch central screen; the GMC Terrain has a 15-inch display. The Equinox offers leatherette seating on its high-end trims; the Terrain boasts leather-trimmed seats. The Equinox requires you to pay for add-on features like a ventilated driver seat, even on its highest trim level; the GMC Terrain Denali includes them as standard.
Both models do have some similar features, like the six-speaker audio system or an available eight-way power driver seat. Still, the Terrain otherwise takes the lead with elements like the uniquely adventure-ready interior of the AT4. That trim comes with easy-to-clean upholstery and additional drive modes.
So, if you prefer additional comfort and convenience features, a new or used GMC Terrain should be your priority.
Finally, let's talk about safety. Both models offer a comprehensive array of safety features, including recent five-star safety reviews from the NHTSA.5 However, the Terrain does offer slightly stronger driver-assistance technology, including the exclusive Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert and standard HD Surround Vision on the Denali. You can also get an Interior Camera to watch your cabin.
If you're our New York neighbor and ready to explore what the victor of our GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox comparison feels like, we recommend visiting our Long Island GMC dealer for a test drive. The GMC Terrain is the perfect model for families who need a versatile SUV that's ready to take on tough roads while maximizing fuel economy. Be sure to talk with us about our limited-time GMC Terrain special offers for fantastic opportunities on high-end trims.
The 2027 GMC Terrain is considered the more luxurious version of the Chevy Equinox. For example, where the Equinox offers an 11.3-inch diagonal central touchscreen, the Terrain provides a 15-inch version. The GMC Terrain Denali has standard features like HD Surround Vision and a ventilated driver seat, which are only available for the Chevy Equinox.
While both models offer comfortable ground clearance, the GMC Terrain earns its namesake through standard AWD on two trim levels and additional features like the AT4-exclusive Terrain Drive mode and front skid plate. If you're consistently driving on snowy roads, the GMC Terrain AT4 is an excellent companion.
The biggest difference between the 2027 GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox is luxury. The GMC Terrain offers many standard features that are only available on the Equinox, plus larger screens and a slightly more advanced infotainment and safety array.
I came in to look at a Terrain Denali. I met up with Joe Rossetti and he was great. Went through all of the car options with the truck. He was great and patient. Couldn’t ask for anyone better. I ended up purchasing the Terrain Denali. Thanks Joe!!!
My wife and I recently purchased a 2025 GMC Terrain from Generation Buick GMC, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. Our salesperson, Khaled, was absolutely outstanding from start to finish. He was extremely professional, patient, and knowledgeable, taking the time to walk us through every detail and answer all of our questions without ever making us feel rushed or pressured, Khaled truly went above and beyond to make sure we found the right vehicle that fit our needs and budget. He worked hard to not only get us the perfect Terrain but also to secure a great deal that made the purchase even more exciting. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, I highly recommend asking for Khaled at Generation Buick GMC. His dedication and customer-first approach made the entire car buying process smooth and stress free.
I recently bought a Terrain from Brian Bannon and he was GREAT! Not only was he knowledgeable about the different packages/models of vehicles that GMC had to offer, but he was incredibly personable and not pushy at all. He answered my excessive amount of questions and was pleasant throughout the entire exchange. He kept me informed through the entire process and often looked for ways to make things more convenient for me. He made a fair deal with the car I was purchasing and the car I was trading in. Would definitely recommend anyone use Brian when purchasing their next vehicle.
1EPA-estimated mpg for the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 8-speed automatic FWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at https://www.fueleconomy.gov.
2EPA-estimated 26 city/29 hwy 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
3GM-estimated. Maximum trailering ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer.
4Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov
