The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox are the perfect example of siblings that come from the same place but have very different personalities. Both are assembled in the same plant and have the same bones and similar powertrains, but when you get down to it, you have two different SUVs.
The Same Powertrain – But Still a Little Different
Both the GMC Terrain and the Chevy Equinox get power from a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder gas engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. Where you’ll find the difference is in the transmission. The GMC gets a buttery-smooth nine-speed automatic transmission where the Equinox pairs the engine with a continuously variable automatic transmission as part of its updates for 2025.
Impressive Tech All Around
The 2025 GMC Terrain has an updated tech suite that puts everything you need right within reach. A 15-inch touchscreen comes standard along with an 11-inch gauge cluster. But It’s more than just a pretty face. GMC updated the software to make sure it is easy to use and quick to respond. It comes loaded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
You’ll get the same type of tech in the Equinox. An 11-inch digital instrument display and 11.3-inch touchscreen come in all models and the infotainment system comes all loaded up with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google Built-in. A 5G Wi-Fi hotspot is another standard feature that will come in handy.
Off-Road Ready and Fancy Pants Upgrades
The 2025 GMC Terrain comes in the Elevation trim, but it wouldn’t be the Terrain without the capable AT4 trim for drivers who want adventure and the Denali for those who like to drive fancy. These two models will arrive in 2026.
The Equinox comes in the base LT, the sporty RS, and the fun Activ trims. The RS adds synthetic leather upholstery on the inside and the blacked-out trim on the outside, while the Activ has all-terrain tires.
All the Safety Things
Whether you’re looking at the GMC Terrain or the Chevy Equinox, you’ll have a full suite of advanced driver aids looking out for you. Both come with forward collision warning, automatic braking, and lane-departure warning with mitigation. The Terrain also has a blind-zone steering assist system to help you avoid accidents, and pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Get in and Get Comfortable
These small crossover SUVs are big on cabin comfort. The Terrain has premium cloth covering the seats, which are heated if you’re sitting in the front, and the heated steering wheel makes those cold commutes much better for the driver. If you need to haul some gear with you on your trip, the 60/40 split rear seats help create extra cargo space if you need it.
If you’re sitting in the Terrain, you’ll also get heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Dual-zone climate control is available, along with synthetic leather if you want a more upscale feel.
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