What’s the difference between the 2022 GMC Acadia and GMC Terrain? If you’re not familiar with these SUVs, you may be surprised to learn just how different they are. In any case, the Acadia and Terrain appeal to different drivers. We’re here to help you figure out what kind you are.
Price & Size
As a three-row midsize SUV, the Acadia is the bigger model. It also has the bigger price tag, starting at $36,500. The GMC Terrain sits on the other end of the SUV spectrum, and it’s classified as a compact model. This five-passenger SUV starts at $29,900.
Creature Comfort
The Acadia has room for six, with two seats in every row. Behind the rear seats, you’ll find 12.8 cubic feet for your groceries and gear. Inside the Terrain, you’ll find two rows with five seats. Although the Terrain is technically smaller, it offers more space for your stuff, with 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
Each of these GMC SUVs is offered as four models: the base SLE, mid-grade SLT, off-road-friendly AT4, and chic Denali. The Acadia’s standard lineup is stacked a little higher, with tri-zone automatic climate control and active noise cancellation. But both models offer a wide range of luxury options, including heated front seats and leather upholstery.
Technology
When it comes to infotainment, there is a lot of overlap between these SUVs. Both include a smartphone-friendly infotainment system, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Acadia does give you a bigger touchscreen interface, 8 inches to the Terrain’s 7 inches.
The Acadia comes standard with more safety systems, however. Every Acadia includes the GM Pro Safety Plus package, which includes blind-spot monitoring and front and rear parking sensors. Both SUVs include standard lane-keeping assist and forward collision mitigation.
Power & Performance
The 2022 GMC Acadia is the more powerful performer, offering two engine options that deliver the kind of ride you expect from a rugged SUV. It’ll even tow a decent-sized boat, with tow ratings of up to 4,000 pounds.
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (228 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 271 lb-ft)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
- 4,000 lbs max towing
The smaller 2022 GMC Terrain puts more of an emphasis on fuel economy, earning 27 mpg combined (the Acadia reaches 25 mpg combined) . Although it can’t tow as much as the Acadia, the Terrain can manage smaller items, like a Jet Ski or pair of dirt bikes.
- Turbo 1.5L four-cylinder engine (170 hp, 203 lb-ft)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
- 1,500 lbs max towing
Your New GMC SUV
The 2022 GMC Acadia is the best SUV for anyone who wants extra passenger space, more power, and a longer list of standard features. The 2022 GMC Terrain, on the other hand, is the better option for anyone who wants to fit into a compact parking space, maximize fuel economy, and still enjoy the sporty utility of a smaller SUV.