Choosing between two capable SUVs can be a challenge, especially when they come from the same trusted brand like GMC. The 2022 GMC Terrain and the 2022 GMC Acadia offer distinct advantages, catering to different needs and lifestyles. Understanding their key differences will help you make the most informed decision for your next vehicle purchase.
Are you seeking a nimble and fuel-efficient compact SUV for city driving and everyday commutes? Or perhaps you need the spaciousness and versatility of a mid-size option for family adventures and cargo hauling? We’ll break down what makes each of these GMCs stand out.
From interior comfort and technology features to performance and price points, this comparison aims to highlight the pros and cons of the GMC Terrain versus the Acadia 2022. Let’s dive in and discover which one best fits your driving requirements.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | gmc terrain | acadia 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder | 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder (standard) / 3.6L V6 (optional) |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 228 hp (2.0L) / 310 hp (3.6L) |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft (2.0L) / 271 lb-ft (3.6L) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (standard), All-wheel drive (optional) | Front-wheel drive (standard), All-wheel drive (optional) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 6 or 7 |
| Cargo Space (max) | 63.3 cu ft | 79.0 cu ft |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | 25/30 mpg (FWD) | 22/29 mpg (2.0T FWD) / 19/27 mpg (3.6L V6 FWD) |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs (2.0T) / 4,000 lbs (3.6L V6) |
| Infotainment Screen | 7-inch or 8-inch | 8-inch |
| Standard Safety Features | Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist | Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine & Performance
- Gmc Terrain: The 2022 GMC Terrain comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While adequate for daily driving, it can feel underpowered during spirited acceleration or when carrying a full load.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 GMC Acadia offers two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, or an optional 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The V6 provides significantly more robust performance, making it better suited for towing and highway passing.
- Winner: acadia 2022
Seating & Space
- Gmc Terrain: The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV with seating for five passengers. While comfortable for front-seat occupants, the rear seats can feel a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys. Cargo space is decent for its class, offering 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 GMC Acadia is a mid-size SUV, offering standard seating for seven passengers across three rows (or six with optional second-row captain’s chairs). This makes it a much more versatile option for larger families. Cargo space is also more generous, with 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row and expanding significantly when seats are folded.
- Winner: acadia 2022
Fuel Economy
- Gmc Terrain: The 2022 GMC Terrain achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG city and 30 MPG highway for its front-wheel-drive configuration. All-wheel drive slightly reduces these figures. Its smaller engine contributes to its more favorable fuel efficiency in this comparison.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 GMC Acadia with the standard four-cylinder engine offers an EPA-estimated 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. The more powerful V6 engine is less efficient, rated at 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Terrain generally edges out the Acadia in fuel economy.
- Winner: gmc terrain
Infotainment & Technology
- Gmc Terrain: Standard on the 2022 Terrain is a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims offer an 8-inch screen and built-in navigation. The system is user-friendly and responsive.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 Acadia comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offers more advanced features like an available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and a premium Bose audio system on higher trims. The larger screen and additional tech options give it an edge.
- Winner: acadia 2022
Safety Features
- Gmc Terrain: The 2022 Terrain includes a suite of standard driver-assist features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and forward collision alert. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims. It generally offers a good array of safety tech.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 Acadia also boasts a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert. Higher trims offer more advanced options like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. Both are strong contenders, but the Acadia’s optional advanced features provide a slight advantage.
- Winner: acadia 2022
Towing Capacity
- Gmc Terrain: The GMC Terrain is not designed for significant towing. Its maximum towing capacity is a mere 1,500 pounds, making it suitable only for very light loads like small utility trailers.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 GMC Acadia, when equipped with the V6 engine and the proper trailering package, can tow up to 4,000 pounds. This makes it a far more capable vehicle for those who need to tow boats, campers, or larger trailers.
- Winner: acadia 2022
Ride Comfort & Handling
- Gmc Terrain: The GMC Terrain offers a comfortable and compliant ride, absorbing road imperfections well. Its smaller size makes it nimble and easy to maneuver in urban environments. The handling is predictable and stable.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 GMC Acadia provides a comfortable ride, though it can feel a bit less refined than some competitors in its class. Its larger size means it’s not as agile as the Terrain in tight spaces, but it offers good stability on the highway. The ride is generally smooth for a three-row SUV.
- Winner: gmc terrain
Price & Value
- Gmc Terrain: The 2022 GMC Terrain typically has a lower starting MSRP than the Acadia, making it a more budget-friendly option for buyers. Its value proposition lies in its affordability and decent feature set for its class.
- Acadia 2022: The 2022 GMC Acadia, being a larger and more powerful vehicle, generally commands a higher starting price. However, its increased passenger capacity, more robust engine options, and greater versatility can justify the higher cost for families needing those attributes.
- Winner: gmc terrain
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Passenger Space | Acadia 2022 |
| Cargo Space | Acadia 2022 |
| Powertrain Options | Acadia 2022 |
| Fuel Economy | gmc terrain |
| Maneuverability | gmc terrain |
| Towing Capability | Acadia 2022 |
| Value (for smaller needs) | gmc terrain |
What They Have in Common
- Engine Power: Both offer turbocharged engine options that provide a good balance of performance and efficiency for their respective classes. They aim to deliver adequate acceleration for everyday driving needs.
- Infotainment Systems: GMC equips both vehicles with intuitive infotainment systems featuring touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment on the go.
- Safety Suites: Standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist are present in both the Terrain and Acadia, highlighting GMC’s commitment to driver and passenger protection across its lineup.
- All-Wheel Drive Availability: For those who need enhanced traction in various weather conditions, both the GMC Terrain and Acadia offer optional all-wheel-drive systems, providing greater confidence and capability.
- Modern Exterior Styling: Both SUVs feature GMC’s signature bold and modern design language, with distinctive grilles, LED lighting accents, and a generally upscale appearance that stands out in their segments.
Gmc Terrain Vs Acadia 2022 Buying Guide
Size and Passenger Capacity
The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV, offering a more maneuverable and fuel-efficient option for individuals or smaller families. It typically seats five passengers comfortably. The 2022 Acadia, on the other hand, is a mid-size SUV, providing more interior space and the option for a third row, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently transport more people. This increased size also translates to more cargo volume. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Performance and Drivetrain Options
For the 2022 model year, the GMC Terrain is powered by a single turbocharged engine, prioritizing efficiency and smooth city driving. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The 2022 Acadia offers more robust powertrain choices, including a standard four-cylinder engine and an optional V6, providing greater towing and hauling capabilities. All-wheel drive is also available on the Acadia, enhancing its versatility in various conditions.
Fuel Economy and Cost of Ownership
Generally, the GMC Terrain boasts superior fuel economy due to its smaller size and more efficient engine. This can lead to lower fuel costs over the lifespan of the vehicle. The Acadia, with its larger engines and heavier chassis, will naturally consume more fuel. However, when considering the overall cost of ownership, factors like initial purchase price, insurance premiums, and potential maintenance costs should be evaluated for both models.
Technology and Features
Both the GMC Terrain and the 2022 Acadia come equipped with a range of modern technology and convenience features. The Terrain often includes standard infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with various driver-assistance technologies. The Acadia, being a larger and often more premium offering, may provide more advanced features as standard or in higher trim levels, such as larger touchscreens, premium audio systems, and more comprehensive safety suites. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy gmc terrain If…
- You prioritize fuel efficiency and a more compact footprint for easier city driving and parking.
- Your primary need is for a comfortable and well-equipped compact SUV for a smaller family or individual.
- You’re looking for a capable and stylish SUV with a strong emphasis on standard safety features at a competitive price point.
Buy acadia 2022 If…
- You require more passenger and cargo space, with the flexibility of a third row for larger families or carpooling.
- You desire a more powerful engine option for enhanced performance, especially if you plan on towing or carrying heavier loads.
- You’re seeking a mid-size SUV with a more commanding presence and a wider range of available premium features and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV is better for families?
The 2022 GMC Acadia is generally the better choice for families due to its larger size and available third-row seating. This provides more passenger capacity and flexibility for transporting children and their friends. The Acadia also offers more cargo space, which is crucial for strollers, sports equipment, and family road trips. While the Terrain can accommodate a small family, the Acadia offers a more comfortable and practical solution for larger households.
Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency?
The GMC Terrain typically offers better fuel efficiency compared to the 2022 Acadia. Its smaller, more compact design and often more fuel-conscious engine options contribute to lower gasoline consumption. This makes the Terrain a more economical choice for daily commuting and city driving where fuel economy is a primary concern. The Acadia, with its larger size and more powerful engine options, will generally consume more fuel.
What is the main difference in size?
The primary difference in size lies in their classification: the GMC Terrain is a compact SUV, while the 2022 Acadia is a mid-size SUV. This means the Acadia is longer, wider, and taller than the Terrain. The Acadia’s larger dimensions allow for more interior passenger volume, particularly with the inclusion of an optional third row, and a significantly larger cargo area compared to the more confined space of the Terrain. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Which SUV has more towing capacity?
The 2022 GMC Acadia offers a considerably higher towing capacity than the GMC Terrain. The Acadia, especially when equipped with its optional V6 engine, is designed to handle towing demands for smaller trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles. The GMC Terrain, with its focus on efficiency and city driving, has a much lower towing capacity, generally suitable for very light loads or no towing at all.
Are both SUVs available with all-wheel drive?
Yes, both the GMC Terrain and the 2022 Acadia are available with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an optional feature. This provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or on slippery surfaces. While AWD is an option on both, the Acadia’s larger size and more robust powertrain options may make its AWD system feel more capable for tackling challenging terrain or heavier loads.
Final Verdict
The 2022 GMC Acadia stands out as the superior choice for families and those needing more space and capability. Its larger dimensions, optional third row, and more powerful engine options make it more versatile for a wider range of needs. While the GMC Terrain excels in fuel efficiency and maneuverability for smaller households, the Acadia offers a more complete package for those prioritizing passenger comfort, cargo volume, and towing potential.
Winner: 2022 GMC Acadia