2026 GMC Terrain Vs. Chevy Equinox: Top Crossover SUV Comparison
Summary
While the Equinox is a fine vehicle, an evenhanded GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox review tends to tilt in the favor of the Terrain. It has better standard features, more access to luxuries and performance enhancements, and the same efficient engine as the Equinox. Below, we dive into the details.
Chevrolet Equinox vs. GMC Terrain: Key Takeaways
- The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox both have three trim levels. The mid- and top-tier Terrain SUVs have standard all-wheel drive; this is not the case for the Equinox.
- The 2026 GMC Terrain comes with a 15-inch touchscreen that is significantly larger than that of the Equinox.
- The Terrain is available with leather upholstery trim; the Equinox is not.
- Both the Terrain and Equinox make 175 horsepower and can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
- You can test-drive a new GMC Terrain at DeVoe Buick GMC.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Trim Levels
First up in our GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox review is trim levels. The GMC Terrain, a compact crossover SUV, has three equipment levels to select from. When it comes to front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive capabilities, the entry-level Elevation comes standard with front-wheel drive, but it has all-wheel drive as an available option; the mid-tier AT4 and top-rank Denali variants both have standard all-wheel drive – perfect for adventure seekers.
When it comes to the 2026 Chevy Equinox, it also comes in three trim levels: LT, ACTIV, and RS. Each one comes standard with front-wheel drive, but they can also be had with all-wheel drive. Already, we're seeing the GMC Terrain pull away from the competition: motorists don't need to pay extra to equip a mid- or top-tier Terrain with all-wheel drive.
GMC Terrain reviews often note that the model offers impressive value on its entry-level trim. This small SUV comes with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, the latter of which can be a boon for drivers who dislike touching a cool surface. The Terrain also has a larger standard touchscreen for easier accessibility, as well as a refined style that sets it apart from the rest.
Our Florida GMC dealership is a great place to learn more about the GMC Terrain trim levels and take one of these sleek machines out for a test drive.
Summary
The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox both have three available trim levels. The Terrain, however, comes with standard all-wheel drive on the mid- and top-tier options, while every Equinox has standard front-wheel drive. Additionally, the Terrain Elevation provides superb value.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Interior & Technology
As noted above, the GMC Terrain has a larger standard touchscreen than the Equinox. The 15-inch system supports multi-touch interactions and is available with Google built-in technology. The vehicle also has standard wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, allowing you to listen to your favorite podcasts or albums easily, along with an 11-inch digital driver's display.
You'll also find an 11-inch driver's display in the 2026 Equinox, but its touchscreen is only 11.3 inches. Both vehicles have heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, along with a 12-volt auxiliary outlet in the cargo area. This feature can come in handy during camping trips, when you can use it to recharge an electric lantern or power a pump for an air mattress.
One major departure between these models is the availability of an iconic luxury appointment: Leather upholstery. The Equinox simply cannot be equipped with it. The Terrain, on the other hand, can. The top-tier Denali model comes standard with perforated, leather-appointed seat trim. When you want to ferry passengers around in style, the Terrain Denali is the way to go.
Similarly, while front-seat ventilation is standard in the Terrain Denali interior and available for the other two Terrain models, it's not an option for the entry-level Equinox and is only available on the other two trims. The Terrain clearly carries this portion of our Terrain vs. Equinox comparison.
Summary
While both the Equinox and Terrain have impressive standard features, such as heated front seats, the Terrain has better options and a larger infotainment screen. The Equinox cannot be equipped with leather upholstery, while the Terrain comes standard with it on the Denali trim.
The performance of the Terrain and Equinox is quite comparable because the vehicles rely on the same engine, a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder setup that makes 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. Both SUVs can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
This part of our 2026 GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox matchup tilts ever-so-slightly in favor of the latter model, which has marginally better fuel efficiency ratings from the EPA. The 2026 Terrain, when equipped with front-wheel drive, scores up to an EPA-estimated 26/28/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 The Chevy model gets up to an EPA-estimated 26/29/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
Summary
The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox have almost the same performance metrics. Both provide up to 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque, along with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. Each also makes up to an EPA-estimated 27 MPG (Combined).1,2
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Dimensions & Cargo Capacity
The Terrain is slightly smaller in length and width when compared to the Equinox, making it more nimble and maneuverable.
The exterior dimensions of the Terrain are:
- 181 inches long
- 74.5 inches wide (without mirrors)
- 65.8-66.2 inches tall (depending on trim)
The Equinox is:
- 183.2 inches long
- 74.9 inches wide (without mirrors)
- 65.6 inches tall
The interior dimensions of these two compact crossover SUVs are very similar, as you'll see in the chart below.
Many used GMC Terrain models have dimensions close to those listed above -- that is, rather spacious! Visit our dealership today to explore our pre-owned options.
Summary
While the Terrain and Equinox share a platform, these vehicles do have notable differences. The new GMC Terrain, for example, has 44 inches of front legroom, while the Equinox just has 40.9 inches. Both, however, promise up to 63.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Safety
When you're deciding between the Chevy Equinox or the GMC Terrain, you will likely consider safety systems. Both models receive "Good" or "Acceptable" ratings for every aspect of their Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) testing.5
They also come with notable safety technologies, including:
- HD Rear Vision Camera
- Forward Collision Alert
- Following Distance Indicator
- Rear Park Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Braking
- Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking
- Passenger Sensing System
- Blind Zone Steering Assist
These technologies work together to keep you and your passengers secure as you drive. On this front, the GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox matchup is tied. You'll find that every one of the new GMC models at our store has impressive safety technologies.
Summary
Both the GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox are well-equipped with safety features, ranging from Blind Zone Steering Assist to Forward Collision Alert.
Visit Us for a Terrain Test Drive
Now that we've finished our GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox comparison, it's clear that the Terrain provides more value to drivers. With its more spacious front seat, better standard technology, and more accessible all-wheel drive, it promises everything drivers are looking for in a compact crossover SUV.
The whole team here at Devoe Automotive is ready to help you pick out the Terrain that best suits your needs. Whether you're after the value-forward Terrain Elevation or desire the sublime comforts of the Terrain Denali, we're here to assist you during your automotive journey.
We provide competitive GMC Terrain lease offers that can smooth your path to the front seat of one of these dynamic SUVs. Visit us today to learn more about the Terrain SUV's seating, specs, and colors – and about our compelling financing and leasing specials.
GMC Terrain Reviews From Our Florida Customers
I recently purchased a 2026 GMC Terrain Denali from DeVoe GMC in Naples, and the entire experience was fantastic. For the first time, I specifically asked to work with a female sales associate, and I couldn’t be happier with that decision, Logan was outstanding. She was professional, knowledgeable, and truly a pleasure to work with. Logan explained everything thoroughly, followed up promptly, and made herself available every step of the way. I felt confident in the process and walked away knowing I got a great deal, thanks in large part to her dedication and communication. To be clear, I have no issue working with male salespeople, but after this experience, I’ll absolutely continue to seek out women in automotive sales. I’m a strong supporter of women in business, and Logan showed exactly why that support matters she set a new standard. The only minor disappointment was that the all-weather floor mats weren’t included in the deal. However, that decision was out of Logan’s control and had nothing to do with her service, which was exceptional from start to finish. If you’re shopping at DeVoe GMC, ask for Logan. She’s knowledgeable, reliable, and genuinely cares about her customers. You won’t be disappointed.
Tyler was great to work with on the purchase of our new GMC Terrain Denali. He is knowledgeable on the product and also listens well when discussing the financial needs of the sale. I would buy here again, and I would suggest this dealership to a friend.
Teddy (My Salesman) is without question the main reason I chose your Dealership, his honesty and knowledge of the vehicles is unsurpassed. You’re Dealership has proven itself to me (after purchasing vehicles for the past 50+ years) to be a rare jewel in the industry of the typical Dealership stereotype , the honesty and sincerity was truly a breath of fresh air! Thanks again
1EPA-estimated mpg for the 1.5-liter turbo 4-cyl with CVT and 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 turbo 4-cyl.
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 award, visit https://www.iihs.org.
