Choosing between the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and 2026 GMC Terrain means deciding which compact SUV best fits your driving needs and lifestyle in Ontario. Both vehicles share the same efficient 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and similar dimensions, yet each brings distinct styling, trim options, and features to families and commuters across Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area.
Discover the capability, comfort, and versatility offered by both the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain—ideal choices for Mississauga drivers.
Shop SUVs >Understanding how these two GM siblings differ—from trim availability and interior appointments to pricing and capability—helps you make a confident choice. No matter if you prioritize value, off-road readiness, or premium comfort, this comparison breaks down what sets the Equinox and Terrain apart.
|
Feature |
2026 Chevrolet Equinox |
2026 GMC Terrain |
|
Engine |
1.5L turbo 4-cylinder |
1.5L turbo 4-cylinder |
|
Power |
175 hp / 203 lb-ft (AWD) |
175 hp / 203 lb-ft (AWD) |
|
Fuel Economy (AWD) |
9.2 L/100 km combined |
9.4 L/100 km combined |
|
Cargo Space |
844 L (seats up) / 1,798 L (seats down) |
844 L (seats up) / 1,798 L (seats down) |
|
Towing Capacity (AWD) |
680 kg (1,500 lbs) |
680 kg (1,500 lbs) |
|
Available Trims |
LT, RS, ACTIV |
Elevation, AT4, Denali |
|
Infotainment Screen |
11.3 inches |
15 inches |
Both the Equinox and Terrain use the same 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower. Torque output varies by drivetrain: front-wheel-drive models deliver 184 lb-ft, while all-wheel-drive versions generate 203 lb-ft.
Transmission options differ between the two. The Equinox pairs a continuously variable transmission with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic with all-wheel drive. The Terrain follows the same pattern—CVT for FWD, eight-speed automatic for AWD.
Fuel economy ratings show minimal variation:
The Equinox AWD holds a slight efficiency advantage over the Terrain AWD, particularly in city driving. Both vehicles accommodate a 56-litre fuel tank and offer similar range for highway commutes between Mississauga and surrounding areas.
The technology experience differs noticeably between these two SUVs. The Equinox features an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Terrain upgrades to a 15-inch display across all trims. Both systems include Google built-in integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 11-inch digital driver information display.
Seating materials vary by trim:
Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard on all trims of both vehicles. The Terrain Denali adds ventilated front seats and heated rear seats—features not available on any Equinox trim.
Both SUVs provide identical cargo capacity: 844 litres with rear seats up and 1,798 litres with seats folded. The 60/40 split-folding rear bench and power liftgate (standard on upper trims) make loading gear straightforward for weekend trips north of the city or daily errands around Mississauga.
The Equinox and Terrain take different approaches to trim strategy. The Equinox offers three main configurations:
The Terrain lineup includes:
Ground clearance varies slightly:
The Terrain AT4 stands out with its off-road focus, offering a lifted suspension, underbody protection, and dedicated drive mode for challenging terrain. The Equinox ACTIV provides rugged styling and all-terrain tires but lacks the AT4's mechanical enhancements.
Both vehicles include over 15 standard safety features:
The Equinox earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in frontal and side impact tests and 4 stars in rollover resistance.
The Terrain Denali adds HD surround vision camera system, rear camera mirror, traffic sign recognition, and rear pedestrian alert—advanced features not available on the Equinox.
Both vehicles carry identical warranty coverage:
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox if you want:
Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain if you prefer:
Both SUVs deliver identical cargo space, towing capacity (680 kg with AWD), and mechanical capability. Your decision comes down to styling preference, desired trim features, and budget. Families in Mississauga seeking maximum value will appreciate the Equinox's lower entry price, while those wanting a more upscale cabin or serious off-road ability may prefer the Terrain's AT4 or Denali trims.
Test drive the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and 2026 GMC Terrain side-by-side at Applewood Chevrolet Buick GMC in Mississauga. Our team can walk you through each trim level, demonstrate the technology systems, and help you find the compact SUV that fits your driving needs in Ontario.
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