Under the skin, the new 2011 Chevrolet Equinox and 2011 GMC Terrain are mechanically identical. Still, both models offer their own identities and slight differences that are worth comparing. Review the differences between the new 2011 Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain to determine which one is better suited for you.
Exterior – New 2011 Chevy Equinox vs. 2011 GMC Terrain
The major differences between the Equinox and Terrain occur in the category of exterior styling. Overall, the GMC delivers a bolder, slightly more upscale appeal than the Equinox. The more rugged design of the Terrain is achieved with the help of bulging wheel arches, a boxier front end and slanted C-pillar.
The Equinox, on the other hand, offers a softer design that might be described as having a more universal appeal. Where the Terrain takes chances, the Equinox plays it safe. Despite this more reserved approach, the Equinox is a wholly attractive vehicle that fits well into the landscape of any suburb or city.
Specification |
Chevrolet Equinox
|
GMC Terrain
|
Length: |
187.8 inches |
185.3 inches |
Width: |
72.5 inches |
72.8 inches |
Height: |
66.3 inches |
66.3 inches |
Ground Clearance: |
7.8 inches |
6.9 inches |
View more Chevrolet Equinox photos and GMC Terrain photos.
Interior – New 2011 Chevy Equinox vs. 2011 GMC Terrain
The Chevy Equinox comes with a slightly longer frame than the Terrain. Despite this fact, the two compact SUVs share nearly identical interior dimensions and cargo capacity. In terms of interior styling, both models deliver a similar feel. However, differences in interior color schemes and other minor touches may sway your vote
...
one way or another.
Standard and available features vary depending on the model. The base Equinox starts with such features as cruise control, air conditioning, power front seat with height adjustment, power windows and locks, satellite radio, auxiliary jack and six-speaker stereo. Billed as the more upscale model, the Terrain adds a rearview camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror, foglights, tinted windows and heated mirrors.
Exclusive options available on the Terrain include roof rails, chrome exterior trim and a sunroof.
Specification |
Chevrolet Equinox
|
GMC Terrain
|
Front Head Room: |
40.9 inches |
39.8 inches |
Rear Head Room: |
39.2 inches |
39.2 inches |
Rear Leg Room: |
39.9 inches |
39.9 inches |
Max. Cargo: |
64.0 cu. ft. |
64.0 cu. ft. |
Review additional Chevrolet Equinox specifications and GMC Terrain specifications.
Pricing – New 2011 Chevy Equinox vs. 2011 GMC Terrain
Given the additional base features, it should come as no surprise that the GMC Terrain starts with a slightly higher price tag. With a base price of $22,745, the Equinox is better suited for car shoppers on a budget. Those who want to pamper themselves a bit may feel compelled to splurge on the Terrain's $24,250 starting package.
Chevrolet Equinox
|
GMC Terrain
|
Base: $22,745 |
Base: $24,250 |
LT: $23,910 |
SLE-2: $26,050 |
LS: $24,495 |
SLT-1: $27,850 |
LTZ: $28,320 |
SLT-2: $28,168 |
Performance – New 2011 Chevy Equinox vs. 2011 GMC Terrain
Both models share the same available engines. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine comes standard and makes 182 horsepower. An upgraded 3.0-liter V-6 is also available. Compared to other compact SUVs, the Equinox and Terrain perform well in the category of fuel efficiency. Base models earn an impressive 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway – figures that can only be beaten by hybrid competitors.
Specification |
Chevrolet Equinox
|
GMC Terrain
|
Base horsepower |
182 hp |
182 hp |
Base torque |
172 lb-ft. |
172 lb-ft. |
MPG (city/hwy/cmb) |
22/32/26 |
22/32/26 |
Safety – New 2011 Chevy Equinox vs. 2011 GMC Terrain
The 2011 Terrain comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, six airbags, OnStar and a rearview camera. The Terrain offers the same starter package, save the rearview camera (which is optional). Both vehicles can be equipped with rear parking sensors.
Our Choice: New 2011 Chevy Equinox
While the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain are largely the same vehicle, the Equinox offers a more universal appeal that should appeal to a broader audience. The lower starting price tag also means more car shoppers can afford the Chevy-branded model (with the option to upgrade features if desired). Still, the Terrain shouldn't be shied away from for those who want a few extra creature comforts.
