Compact SUVs continue to be popular in the market. These SUVs provide a blend of efficiency and style. Two popular options for compact SUVs are the 2023 GMC Terrain and the 2023 Toyota RAV4. Both vehicles offer impressive features and a reliable reputation, but they also have distinct differences. Let's delve into the details and see which SUV is for you.
Key Takeaways
- The Terrain boasts an eye-catching design while the RAV4 shows a more aggressive, angular design.
- The Terrain has a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft of torque.
- The RAV4 offers a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The Terrain has 24 city / 29 highway MPG efficiency while the RAV4 has 27 city / 35 highway MPG efficiency.
- The Terrain has an average market price of $32,000 while the RAV4 has an average market price of $31,500.
Exterior and Design
As with most of GMC’s vehicles, the Terrain boasts a muscular design with a prominent grille and sharp lines that give it a rugged yet refined look. As standard, the Terrain features distinctive LED lighting and 19-inch wheels as standard while higher trims offer larger wheel options and premium exterior accents. In comparison, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 sports a more aggressive and angular design with a striking front fascia and a floating roofline. It offers LED headlights and taillights across all trims; furthermore, some models feature unique color options and black exterior accents that give it a sporty appearance.
Interior and Comfort
Both the Terrain and RAV4 offer spacious and well-designed interiors. The Terrain's cabin features high-quality materials and comfortable seating, but its control buttons can be awkwardly placed for some drivers and the back seats can be uncomfortable for passengers. The RAV4's interior is equally appealing with a driver and front-passenger focused comfort. Drivers and passengers have appreciated the easy-to-use control system for the RAV4. However, some have experienced flat seats after driving for long periods of time and the driver’s seat can be a little tight for tall drivers.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2023 GMC Terrain has a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft of torque. With this performance, the Terrain has a 24 city / 29 highway MPG efficiency. The Terrain comes with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel is available for better traction and handling. Comparatively, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 offers a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. As for performance, the RAV4 has a 27 city / 35 highway MPG efficiency. It comes with front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive for off-roading. Though both SUVs perform well, the RAV4 has the slight advantage in comparison to the Terrain.
Technology and Safety Features
While both SUVs offer similar technology, each car has its slight differences. Both SUVs offer standard 8-inch infotainment screens that have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Terrain offers a Bose audio system while the RAV4 offers an 11-speaker JBL system. The Terrain offers Wi-Fi hotspots while the RAV4 offers 4G LTE mobile hotspots. The RAV4 also offers a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports depending on the trim.
Safety is an important aspect when considering a new SUV, and both the GMC Terrain and Toyota RAV4 excel in this area. The Terrain comes with features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a rearview camera. It also offers available advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Similarly, the RAV4 comes standard with the following features: pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also offers additional safety features as options such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Pricing and Value
The 2023 GMC Terrain starts at an MSRP range of $28,000–$37,000 with an average market price of about $32,000, which is considered a good value for the Terrain’s features and capabilities. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 starts at an MSRP range of $28,000–$38,000 with an average market price of about $31,500.
Overview
Both the 2023 GMC Terrain and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 are impressive compact SUVs. The Terrain offers a rugged and upscale design, powerful engine, and advanced safety features. Meanwhile, the RAV4 offers a sleek design, efficient engine, and advanced technological features. We’d love to show you the rugged power of the Terrain when you come in for a test drive today!