2022 Chevrolet Equinox vs GMC Terrain

With the influx of small SUVs on the market, drivers are finding their dreams come true. Offering enough capacity to be practical and convenient - without having a cumbersome size - these vehicles have become an ideal option for many buyers. What's more is that they tend to be fuel-efficient too, which makes them even more appealing during this time when saving money at the pump can make all the difference!

GMC and Chevrolet are automotive powerhouses, both producing impressive SUVs that offer customers a range of features. The 2022 Equinox from Chevy is positioned to be the more affordable option while its cousin, the 2022 Terrain by GMC offers luxury details such as higher quality materials and interior finishes. To help you select which car best fits your needs, we have put together this guide highlighting all their key differences - allowing you to make an informed decision between classic affordability or sophisticated refinement.

The Powertrain

Get ready for more power and freedom when you drive the 2022 Equinox or Terrain! With a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that offers up to 170 horsepower, your everyday needs are taken care of - plus it can handle trailering up to an impressive 1,500 pounds of gear so you're set for those grand getaways. Don't settle; go with both strength and style in these stellar models from Chevrolet.

Drivers of the Chevrolet Equinox have struggled to find consistent shifting while operating their standard six-speed transmission. However, GMC's nine-speed model promises a more responsive and reliable experience when it comes to downshifting. Those seeking enhanced traction can easily upgrade this SUV with front or all wheel drive capabilities; available in both the base package and select trims such as AT4 and Denali for added convenience.

Despite offering a larger size, the Equinox and Terrain manage to remain relatively efficient. While neither can be considered ‘above average’ in terms of gas mileage performance, both models are estimated at 26mpg for city driving with front-wheel drive models reaching up to 31mpg on highways; all-wheel drives achieve only slightly less impressive figures at 25/30 mpg respectively.

For those looking to add an extra edge of excitement and capability, the Equinox RS trim level will inject some sportiness into everyday driving. If a true off-road experience is what buyers are seeking however, then the Terrain AT4 should be their choice; featuring its very own dedicated off-road mode plus intuitive skid plates for tackling any terrain.

The Equinox and Terrain both exemplify excellence in reliability, according to J.D Power's comprehensive assessment system which rates vehicles on a 100-point scale. With scores of 85 and 83 respectively, these two models from the same automaker boast exceptional dependability - an impressive feat that places them firmly amongst the "great" category!

Drivability

The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox give you the perfect balance of performance for a comfortable ride. However, with the optional 19-inch wheels on Equinox's RS trim level, it sacrifices some smoothness around town - making it paramount to stick with smaller standard wheel sizes if you prioritize driving comfortability.

These two SUVs have remarkably similar dimensions, allowing them to provide impressively close cargo capacity. Whether for weekend getaways or large hauls of supplies, both the Equinox and Terrain offer generous space - 29.9 cubic feet behind their second row seats with a maximum of 63.9 (Equinox) and 63.3 (Terrain). Optional power liftgates make loading even easier while completing these vehicles' feature-packed packages.

The Equinox is praised for its outward visibility, particularly to the front and the sides. Rear visibility is somewhat hampered by the large pillars. As for the Terrain, it has a slanted dashboard that may somewhat impair forward visibility.

Both SUVs offer tech-savvy riders a selection of amenities for an entertaining and connected ride. A seven-inch touchscreen provides access to the wireless versions of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while four USB ports plus a six speaker sound system gives occupants plenty of options for streaming their music through crystal clear speakers. What's more? Drivers can enjoy on-the go WiFi with ease – perfect for long drives or daily commutes.

Both of the SUVs can be equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen on select models, and they are both available with a seven-speaker sound system from Bose. Wireless device charging is also available. Buyers will find it easy to learn and use either of these infotainment systems. They have responsive touchscreens and physical knobs that drivers can use as well if they prefer.

The extra luxury associated with the GMC brand becomes apparent when looking at the comfort features inside these SUVs. All models of the Terrain come with automatic climate control, while this is a missing feature for the entry-level Equinox. The Terrain is also equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a more sophisticated look and feel. Both of these SUVs come with a push-button start and proximity keyless entry.

Both the Terrain and Equinox come with cloth upholstery as standard, while leather is only found on the top Premier trim level of the Equinox. Those looking for an elevated experience will find it in Chevrolet's mid-size SUV flagship model: The impressive Denali edition comes equipped with luxurious features such as a head-up display, heated steering wheel and driver's seat memory settings along with added navigational convenience and enhanced suspension systems to provide drivers premium comfort both inside & out.

Safety

The Terrain and the Equinox have long been known for their impressive safety features, recently evidenced by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test scores of five out of five stars overall. Upon closer examination, these vehicles received full marks in frontal collisions and side collisions but were awarded four stars during rollover tests. Despite this strong performance from both SUVs however, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave a lesser score of "Marginal" in regards to head protection when tested on its six main categories - due to inadequate rear seat passenger shield measures.

The 2022 Equinox and Terrain have a collection of valuable driver assistance features as standard. These include forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist and automatic high beams for enhanced safety on the road. Plus an innovative system allowing parents to place limitations when their teenager is behind the wheel! Additional advanced technology options are available including blind spot monitoring with parking sensors plus adaptive cruise control paired with a helpful Safety Alert Seat. All in all – these vehicles have you covered from head to tailpipe.

Which Has the Best Value?

Those searching for a budget-friendly SUV will find the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain ideal choices. The base model of the former starts at an economical $25,800 while its cousin from General Motors commences at $27,900 - offering plenty of options to meet potential buyer’s needs. If you wish to upgrade further with top features then splurge on luxury with either brand's Denali trim level where all wheel drive come standard although it is optional in some lower models within both makes.

Smart shoppers who are considering a 2022 Chevy Equinox or GMC Terrain can plan for costs beyond the initial purchase price, as both vehicles require similar expenses when it comes to fuel and maintenance. At 15k miles/year on average, an annual cost of $8,250 (Equinox) or 8,550 (Terrain) in gas should budgeted; each car is estimated at around $4200-4400 annually for upkeep needs; repair bills will likely be comparable with averages hovering around $1850 per year.

With shorter ownership cycles and depreciation costs on the rise, comparing two popular vehicles such as the Equinox and Terrain is worth your time. While both models depreciate at similar rates over a five-year period ($16,350 for the Equinox vs $17,900 for the Terrain), careful consideration should be given to cost per mile driven - 51 cents with an Equinox compared to 54 cents in its competitor. Your driving needs are sure to influence which model works best within your budget constraints.

Which is Better?

Choosing between the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain is a challenge; both vehicles offer similar features, powerful performance under their hoods, and well-equipped safety packages. It's simply an issue of finding which suits your style -- do you value cost savings or a more exquisite driving experience? No matter what decision drivers make when weighing these two options, they won't be disappointed.

Consumers looking for a great value in the luxury SUV category need not look any further than the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. With approximately $2,000 savings compared to its sibling model – the Chevy Terrain - and more cargo room as an added bonus, this vehicle is sure to turn heads! Drivers will be delighted at what they get under their hood too; sharing many features with its electric counterpart Volt makes it even better equipped without breaking your wallet.

If you're a frequent driver and desire added convenience, luxury, and comfort on the road then investing in an SUV with extra style is right up your alley. Take advantage of features like auto climate control or leather-wrapped steering wheels to ensure that every mile of your journey feels effortless! Check out Chevrolet's 2022 Equinox models or GMC's Terrain options for affordable small SUVs packed full of personality.