Most families want a versatile, durable model for their garage, which is why our GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox guide is such an important read. The Chevy Equinox stands out for its easy access to family-friendly features, like HD Surround Vision or heated rear-row seats, while the GMC Terrain is both more expensive and primarily focused on off-road technology.
At Goodwin Chevrolet Brunswick, you'll have the opportunity to see how the Chevy Equinox readily matches the GMC Terrain in luxury and comfort, while being all-around more accessible.
A detailed look under the hood will reveal how similar these two powertrains are to one another. Both the Equinox and Terrain utilize a 175-horsepower, 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, the new Equinox for sale takes advantage of its power in one distinct way: fuel economy. The Equinox reaches an EPA-estimated 27 MPG (Combined),1 a fantastic amount for an adventure-ready SUV. The GMC Terrain has a maximum of 26 MPG (Combined).2
GMC Terrain vs. Chevrolet Equinox specs are competitive, but the Equinox wins out.
| Chevy Equinox | GMC Terrain | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 175 | 175 |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 25 / 29 / 271 | 25 / 28 / 262 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 183.2 in | 181 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 40.9 / 39.9 in | 44 / 39.7 in |
| Cargo Volume (Trunk / Max) | 29.8 / 63.5 cu ft | 29.8 / 63.5 cu ft |
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Which is bigger: the GMC Terrain or Chevy Equinox? Well, both models create a similar interior experience, with 63.5 cubic feet of cargo volume when the rear row is folded down. However, the GMC Terrain focuses on front-row legroom at 44 inches, while the Chevy Equinox excels in second-row spaciousness, with 39.9 inches for your passengers.
As a result, the Chevy Equinox vs. GMC Terrain size comparison ends up being a neutral one, with the former having a more family-friendly interior.
As explored in the above chart, the Equinox and GMC Terrain both have three trim levels. The Equinox comes with the LT, ACTIV, and RS packages. The ACTIV has all-terrain tires and sturdy suspension for adventure-loving families, while the RS is a more standard upgrade package with black mirrors, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and two-tone black roof. All models come in FWD or AWD – your choice of efficiency or handling.
Meanwhile, the GMC Terrain has a bumpier lineup. The Elevation comes in FWD or AWD, but both the AT4 and Denali trims have AWD, which limits options for fuel economy. Plus, the AT4 is an off-road vehicle that sacrifices convenience options for features like skid plates, hiding many comfort options behind the top-end Denali level.
The Chevy Equinox scores its greatest win with its feature lineup, which is made to serve families. The Equinox LT starts at a more accessible price than the GMC Terrain Elevation, while still boasting comfortable features like a standard heated steering wheel, heated front-row seats, and a six-speaker sound system. While it has a slightly smaller screen than the Terrain, nearly everything else – from the Remote Start program to the heated front seat and steering wheel – is shared for a much lower price.
The GMC Terrain versus Chevy Equinox feature comparison looks equal, but the Chevy Equinox brings you convenience much earlier.
For an understanding of how these two SUVs prioritize safety, price is again crucial to remember: the Equinox vs. Terrain comparison reveals just how accessible add-ons like HD Surround Vision, Rear Pedestrian Alert, and Traffic Sign Recognition are when you choose the Chevy SUV. The Terrain Denali comes with those features standard, but the Equinox can provide you with that value without breaking your budget.
The Chevy Equinox offers so much value that it readily wins our GMC Terrain vs. Chevy Equinox guide. Take your money further by shopping our all-new Chevrolet inventory. We stock compact crossovers like the Equinox, as well as larger Chevy SUVs – perfect for any commuter or family.
Reach higher-end trim levels thanks to our all-new Chevrolet specials. These limited-time opportunities are ready to take you to unforgettable heights, but only if you act fast.
While both models have their pros and cons, the winner of the Chevrolet Equinox vs. GMC Terrain battle is the Chevy SUV. The Chevy compact SUV has more available features at a lower cost than the GMC SUV, which puts too much emphasis on its off-road lineup. If you value a capable family SUV, the Chevy model is simply more versatile.
The Equinox is slightly larger than the Terrain, at 183.2 inches in length. This affords the Equinox a minor edge in rear-row legroom, letting your three rear passengers stretch out and relax. The GMC Terrain, compared to Chevy Equinox models, feels just a bit tighter in the back.
If you're choosing between the GMC Terrain or Chevy Equinox SUVs, we recommend the Equinox – especially as you climb trim levels. While the GMC Terrain sacrifices luxury for off-roading, the Chevy SUV always prioritizes interior safety and easier access to convenience features like high-end seating materials.
10/02/2025
I can’t say enough about how amazing these guys are at Goodwin Chevrolet of Brunswick! I went with my husband to pick up his new Chevy Traverse, and the next day I went back to pick up my new Chevy Equinox!
I wasn’t looking, but Brandon B. made me such an amazing deal I couldn’t pass it up!
Thank you so much—I love my new Chevy Equinox ❤️
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1EPA-estimated 25 city/29 hwy 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
2EPA-estimated mpg for the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 8-speed automatic transmission FWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at https://www.fueleconomy.gov.