Compare the GMC Terrain
Compare the GMC Terrain vs the Chevy Equinox
The GMC Terrain and the Chevy Equinox are mechanical GM cousins and both share a number of features. These two compact crossovers are use the same turbocharged 1.5-liter engine but the key differences are the transmissions, drive quality, and trim features. To help you decide, the team at Max Dye GMC in Salem, IL created this GMC Terrain vs. Chevrolet Equinox comparison. We're confident that after exploring both SUVs, you'll be ready to buy the new GMC Terrain at our dealership.
2025 GMC Terrain | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox | |
---|---|---|
Starting MSRP | $30,000 | $28,600 |
Engine torque | 184 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm | 184 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined) | 24 / 28 / 25 MPG | 26 / 28 / 27 MPG |
Rear Head Room | 39.2 in. | 39.2 in. |

A comparison of performance
The way an SUV drives is affected by several factors, and a primary focus is the transmission. The new GMC Terrain comes with a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that's matched up with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine and transmission combination gives the Terrain a strong, smooth acceleration and a more responsive ride on Mt. Vernon, IL highways than the Equinox.
The new Chevy Equinox is equipped with the same 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder, but this eninge is coupled with a less-advanced six-speed transmission. In general terms, the more gears, the more smoothly a transmission shifts so the Terrain has a big advantage over the Equinox in terms of ride quality. In addition, the GMC Terrain AT4 is well-suited for off-roading, with its extra driving mode, underbody skid plate, and terrain-conquering tires. The Chevy Equinox simply doesn't offer an off-road trim.
A comparison of dimensions and design
While the exterior width and standard cargo dimensions of these two SUVs are almost identical, the GMC Terrain is slightly shorter, which makes it easier to park in small city spaces around a community like Centralia, IL. The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox also have different exterior aesthetics. The GMC Terrain has a bold, more aggressive stance, while the Chevy Equinox is a little more sporty. If you want an eye-catching SUV with both style and confidence, the exterior design of the new GMC Terrain is the one to get.


A comparison of features
A new SUV should provide a high tech experience, and the new GMC Terrain delivers. If you value larger touch screens and high-end audio systems, you'll appreciate the GMC Terrain's interior. Tech features in the new GMC Terrain include:
- Your choice of a 7- or 8-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment System
- A 4.2- or 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Screen
- An available power liftgate on the entry-level GMC Terrain trim, or a standard hands-free programmable power liftgate in the second-tier SLT and higher
- The top-trim Denali trim features a premium Bose® Audio System and a Head-Up Display to help keep you safely focused on the road ahead
The Chevy Equinox also offers a 7- or 8-inch diagonal touch screen but a smaller 3.5- or 4.2-inch diagonal Driver Information Center. Moving up the Chevy Equinox trim levels can give you access to features like Remote Start and wireless charging, but the entry-level Equinox LS trim doesn't offer a power liftgate option like the Terrain does.
A comparison of trims
Although both SUVs offer four trim levels, the benefits you gain with the GMC Terrain trim levels are impressive:
- The GMC Terrain SLE trim comes with 17-inch wheels, LED signature lighting, deep tinted rear glass, an acoustic laminated windshield and a rear-view camera
- The GMC Terrain SLT trim is equipped with 18-inch wheels, roof-mounted side rails, a heated steering wheel, a fold-flat front passenger seat and a hands-free programmable power liftgate
- The GMC Terrain AT4 is the off-road option with a front steel skid plate, a Traction Select System with Off-Road Mode, leather-appointed seats, front sill plates and adaptive cruise control
- If you invest in the luxurious GMC Terrain Denali trim, you'll have 19-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, body color door handles with chrome surround and an integrated navigation system
The Chevy Equinox also has four trim levels including the LS with 17-inch wheels, the LT with daytime running lamps, the RS with 19-inch wheels and the Premier with integrated turn signals. But in general, the GMC Terrain offers more appealing features.



Test drive the winning GMC Terrain at our dealership
If you like the way the GMC Terrain surpasses the Chevy Equinox, look over our current inventory. Then contact us to schedule a test drive soon at Max Dye GMC in Salem, IL.
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MAX DYE, INC.
1501 West Main Street
Salem, IL 62881
- Sales: (618) 740-4385