GMC Terrain Vs. Chevy Equinox

Cardinale GMC in Seaside CA

Salinas GMC Shoppers Ask What is the Difference Between The GMC Terrain and the Chevy Equinox?

If you’ve been looking for a compact SUV, you may find it hard to decide between the 2021 GMC Terrain and the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. These two sister compact SUVs share the same platform and have a lot in common, as well as some notable differences. We’ll compare the Terrain and the Equinox to help you determine which one is best for your needs, so you can decide which to choose when you visit a dealer like the GMC dealership near Salinas.


Cost

These two SUVs have similar starting Manufacturer Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP), but the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox costs a little less than the 2021 GMC Terrain. The Equinox’s MSRP starts at $23,800, while the Terrain has a starting MSRP of $25,000. The MSRP isn’t the price you’ll pay at the GMC dealership serving Salinas. We use it as a way to compare the relative prices of these two models.


Trim Levels

The 2021 Terrain and 2021 Equinox offer buyers a choice between four trim levels. The Terrain is available in SL, SLE, SLT and Denali trims. The Equinox comes in L, LS, LT and Premier. The Equinox’s base L trim is only available as a special order, which means buyers must wait while it’s being built. Most buyers will choose to purchase one of the three models that are ready to buy at the dealer

Performance

The GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox are both equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The Terrain’s engine is paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the Equinox gets a six-speed automatic. Both SUVs get standard front-wheel drive. The Terrain gets available all-wheel drive across the lineup. The Equinox gets optional all-wheel drive on all trims except the base L. The top-spec Terrain Denali trim gets performance enhancements such as enhanced shock control and a premium suspension.

Interior

The Terrain and Equinox seat five passengers comfortably and provide ample space for cargo. The Equinox features an attractive interior, but since GMC is more of a premium brand than Chevrolet, the Terrain gets more of an upscale cabin. This is particularly evident as you move up to the higher trim levels. The range-topping Terrain Denali trim provides a near-luxury level of amenities, with French stitched leather seats and interior aluminum accents. The Denali also comes with a Bose premium stereo system with seven speakers, a feature that’s only offered as an option in the Equinox’s top-of-the-line Premier trim.

Which One to Buy

The 2021 GMC Terrain and the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox are both outstanding SUVs. They’re both very reliable and get excellent safety scores. Ultimately, the vehicle you choose comes down to your personal preference and budget. If you’re planning on buying one of the lower trims, you may like the Equinox, but for more sophistication, you may want to choose one of the upper Terrain trim levels. For the most luxury, the 2021 GMC Terrain Denali trim is your best bet.


The Cardinale Way

CardinaleWay GMC Seaside is located at 2 Heitzinger Plaza in Seaside. If you’d like to schedule a test drive or make a service appointment for your GMC vehicle, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our showroom is open seven days a week, and our service department operates Monday through Friday. We look forward to providing you with excellent service!