2027 GMC Terrain Vs. Chevy Equinox: Top Crossover SUV Comparison
Summary
The Terrain's three trim levels, cabin, and technology features boast more elegance. While the engines and overall dimensions of these SUV cousins are similar, and both emphasize safety and reliable engineering, you'll see the GMC pull ahead.
Chevrolet Equinox vs. GMC Terrain: Key Takeaways
- The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox each have three available trims, but none of the Equinox trims can hold a candle to the loaded Terrain Denali.
- The Terrain has a larger infotainment display and more front-row legroom than the Equinox.
- The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox share roughly the same specs and performance capabilities.
- They also have similar dimensions and cargo space, but the Terrain isn't as long as the Equinox, making it easier to handle.
- Both the Terrain and the Equinox have solid safety and reliability ratings.
Midsize SUV Showdown: GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox
When you're on the hunt for a capable SUV upgrade, a GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox comparison makes a lot of sense. These two models are cousins built on similar frames with engines that share a lot of DNA. However, there are distinct differences that are worth looking into. Let's see why the Terrain edges out the com
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Trim Levels
The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox each have three trim levels. The Terrain offers the tech-forward Elevation, the off-road-ready AT4, and the luxurious Denali. Here are some notable standard features of each:
- Elevation (FWD or AWD): Keyless Open and Start, 11-inch driver information center, 15-inch infotainment display, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, Rear Park Assist
- AT4 (AWD): All-terrain tires, lifted ride height, front skid plate, roof-mounted side rails, Hill Descent Control, dual-zone climate control
- Denali (AWD): HD Surround Vision, interior camera, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, front LED fog lamps, Traffic Sign Recognition, Rear Pedestrian Alert, three years of OnStar® One
The Equinox comes in three configurations: the value-focused LT, the rugged ACTIV, and the sporty RS. Here are some standard features of each:
- LT (FWD or AWD): Remote Start, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, 11.3-inch infotainment display, HD Rear Vision Camera, Rear Park Assist
- ACTIV (FWD or AWD): All-terrain tires, Rainsense automatic wipers, cabin humidity sensor, 8-way power driver seat, roof-mounted side rails
- RS (FWD or AWD): Evotex seat trim, high-gloss Black mirror caps, wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, 19-inch Carbon flash metallic machined-face aluminum wheels
Each of these six choices has a distinct identity, and the two models share some features. But all Terrain trims come with a 15-inch infotainment display, while the Equinox display is only 11.3 inches. Furthermore, none of the Equinox trims can compete with the Denali when it comes to standard features, like HD Surround Vision and ventilated front seats. Finally, the Terrain Denali and AT4 trims have standard AWD, while AWD costs more on all the Equinox trims.
Summary
The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox each have three available trims, but none of the Equinox trims are as loaded as the Terrain Denali. The GMC Terrain also has a larger infotainment display, and its top two trims have standard AWD.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Interior & Technology
In terms of 2027 GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox technology, we've already touched on the fact that the Terrain has a significantly larger infotainment display anchoring the dashboard. Both have 11-inch driver information centers, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability, USB ports, six-speaker audio systems, and Remote Start. But the Terrain Denali has several standard tech-forward features that aren't standard on any Equinox trim.
Additionally, the Denali offers a leather-appointed seat trim that can't be had in any Equinox. For luxury-minded drivers, that's often the clincher for the new GMC Terrain.
Summary
The GMC Terrain has a more advanced interior than the Chevy Equinox, with a larger infotainment screen. Plus, the Denali trim has a leather seat trim that's unavailable in the Equinox.
For drivers deciding whether to buy the Chevy Equinox or the GMC Terrain, the specs are unlikely to be a tiebreaker. The Terrain and Equinox have the same type of engine under the hood, producing the same horsepower and maximum torque. They even have the same max towing capacity.
The only real difference is that the Equinox gets slightly better fuel efficiency – up to an EPA-estimated 26/29/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 compared to 26/28/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) for the Terrain.
2
You can consider a used GMC
Terrain, too. Many previous model years deliver roughly the same fuel efficiency as the 2027 Terrain.
Summary
The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox are practically twins when it comes to specs. Though the Equinox wins the fuel efficiency battle, it's by the slimmest margin, and there are no major performance differentiators.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Dimensions & Cargo Space
The Terrain and Equinox have strikingly similar exterior dimensions and cargo capacities. The Terrain offers 44 inches of front legroom, while the Chevy Equinox offers only 40.9 inches. And though the Equinox is 2.2 inches longer, the cargo capacity of both SUVs is the same: 29.8 cubic feet behind the second row. The shorter length also makes parking and maneuvering the Terrain easier.
To stretch your legs inside the roomy interior of the Terrain, visit our Florida GMC dealership.
Summary
While the similarly sized GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox both have five-passenger seating and up to 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space, the Terrain separates itself from the Equinox with more front legroom.
GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox Safety & Reliability
Like all new GMC
models, the Terrain comes equipped with an array of standard safety and driver-assist features to protect your loved ones:
- Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking
- Rear Cross Traffic Braking
- HD Rear Vision Camera
- Forward Collision Alert
- Following Distance Indicator
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Zone Steering Assist
These are also standard on the Chevy Equinox; unsurprisingly, both models received Good or Acceptable marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) across their 2026 safety tests.5 Their 2026 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability scores were similar as well, though the GMC Terrain's 80 was a bit higher than the Equinox's 76.6 All in all, it's a slight win for the Terrain.
Summary
The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox offer a range of standard safety features providing peace of mind to compact crossover SUV drivers. They're about equal in terms of safety and reliability.
Test-Drive the 2027 GMC Terrain
We've reached the end of our GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox comparison. While both are reliable SUVs – with similar specs, dimensions, and safety ratings – the Terrain is the winner thanks to its more comfortable interior and superior standard features.
Want to take the victor for a spin? Stop by our Naples dealership for a test drive. We have GMC Terrain lease offers to suit your budget and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV has better features and technology, 2027 GMC Terrain or Chevy Equinox?
The 2027 GMC Terrain has better standard features and technology than the Chevy Equinox, particularly the Denali trim, which offers a 15-inch infotainment display, an interior camera, HD Surround Vision, ventilated front seats, and heated rear outboard seats.
Which SUV is better on snowy roads, Chevy Equinox or GMC Terrain?
The Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain both have available all-wheel-drive options that can capably handle snowy roads and other adverse weather conditions. These compact crossover SUVs also have similar specs, so their performance in the snow should be comparable.
What's the main difference between the new GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox?
The main difference between the 2027 GMC Terrain and the 2027 Chevrolet Equinox is that the Terrain boasts more legroom, a leather interior on the Denali trim, and better technology features than the Equinox. Contact DeVoe Automotive to experience the difference firsthand.
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.
I finally found a dealership that is honest and easy to deal with. Highly recommend Daron our salesman. Buying and financing our new Terrain couldn't have went smoother. None of the normal games they play at most dealerships. Thanks again guys.
1Estimates based on the carryover 1.5L powertrain; confirm official 2027 EPA ratings for your exact
configuration at fueleconomy.gov.
2EPA est. MPG city/hwy: FWD 26/28, AWD 25/29.
3Maximum 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 vehicle Owner’s Manual. The weight of
passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
4Requires 1.5L Turbo engine and AWD. 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.
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.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied
upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.jdpower.com/.
