Shopping for a compact SUV from General Motors puts two strong contenders on your radar: the 2026 GMC Terrain and 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. While these vehicles share the same fundamental engineering, each takes a different approach to the compact SUV market. The Equinox focuses on practical value and family-friendly features, while the Terrain aims higher with premium materials and professional-grade appointments.
Both SUVs deliver the same reliable 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 175 hp, yet their personalities diverge significantly. For drivers in Ontario evaluating these closely related options, understanding the nuances in design philosophy, interior execution, and trim offerings will help determine which vehicle better matches your priorities and budget.
|
Feature |
2026 GMC Terrain |
2026 Chevrolet Equinox |
|---|---|---|
|
Engine |
1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder, 175 hp |
1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder, 175 hp |
|
Torque |
184 lb-ft (FWD), 203 lb-ft (AWD) |
174 lb-ft (FWD), 203 lb-ft (AWD) |
|
Fuel Economy (Combined) |
8.8 L/100 km (FWD) |
8.8 L/100 km (FWD) |
|
Cargo Capacity |
844 L (seats up), 1,798 L (seats down) |
844 L (seats up), 1,798 L (seats down) |
|
Infotainment Screen |
15-inch diagonal |
11.3-inch diagonal |
|
Towing Capacity |
363 kg (800 lbs) FWD, 680 kg (1,500 lbs) AWD |
545 kg (1,202 lbs) FWD, 680 kg (1,500 lbs) AWD |
Both vehicles use the same 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 175 hp, but torque delivery differs slightly. The Equinox generates 174 lb-ft in front-wheel drive configuration, while the Terrain produces 184 lb-ft in the same setup. Both vehicles reach 203 lb-ft when equipped with all-wheel drive.
Transmission choices vary between the models. The Terrain uses a CVT for front-wheel drive models and an 8-speed automatic for all-wheel drive variants. The Equinox employs a variable-speed automatic across its lineup.
Fuel economy remains competitive for both:
The cabin experience reveals where these vehicles truly diverge. The Terrain emphasizes premium materials and a more sophisticated aesthetic, while the Equinox prioritizes practicality and user-friendly technology.
GMC equips the Terrain with a 15-inch diagonal infotainment display compared to the Equinox's 11.3-inch screen. Both systems include Google built-in functionality, wireless smartphone integration, and comprehensive connectivity features. Both vehicles feature matching 11-inch digital driver information centres.
Seating materials progress from premium cloth in the Terrain Elevation to perforated leather in the Denali trim. The Equinox offers cloth seating in LT trim, with Evotex and sueded microfibre materials in ACTIV and RS variants.
The 2026 Terrain lineup consists of three trims: Elevation, AT4, and Denali. Elevation serves as the entry point with heated front seats, while AT4 adds off-road capability with lifted ride height and all-terrain tires. Denali functions as the luxury flagship with premium appointments.
Chevrolet structures the Equinox with LT, ACTIV, and RS trims. The LT provides solid value with essential features, ACTIV targets adventure-minded buyers with rugged styling, and RS appeals to those wanting sporty aesthetics.
|
Trim Comparison |
GMC Terrain |
Chevrolet Equinox |
|---|---|---|
|
Entry Level |
Elevation |
LT |
|
Adventure |
AT4 |
ACTIV |
|
Premium/Sport |
Denali |
RS |
Both vehicles include comprehensive safety suites with over 15 standard features. The Terrain and Equinox share core technologies like Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Zone Steering Assist.
Higher trim levels add advanced features such as HD Surround Vision camera systems and additional driver convenience technologies. The Terrain Denali includes specialized features like Traffic Sign Recognition and Rear Pedestrian Alert.
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox if you prioritize value, practical family features, and lower entry costs. The Equinox delivers solid capability at competitive rates, making it ideal for budget-conscious families seeking reliable transportation with modern amenities.
Select the 2026 GMC Terrain when premium materials, advanced technology, and elevated design appeal to your preferences. The Terrain justifies its positioning with superior interior appointments, larger infotainment displays, and more sophisticated styling that projects professional success.
The decision between these capable compact SUVs comes down to your priorities: practical value versus premium positioning. Schedule test drives of both vehicles to experience their distinct personalities. Visit our Toronto showroom to explore financing options and learn which model better suits your Ontario driving needs.
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