2022 GMC Terrain vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's "professional grade" ethos, offering a blend of ruggedness and refinement that positioned it between Chevrolet and Cadillac in the General Motors lineup. The redesigned Yukon, available in various trims including the new AT4 and the upscale Denali, was a full-size SUV built for both off-road adventures and luxurious comfort. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, creating an upscale cabin experience. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its intricate grillework and chrome accents, exuded a more premium feel compared to its Chevrolet counterpart, the Tahoe High Country.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain offered a refreshed look with updated front styling, wheel designs, and interior trim. The new AT4 trim level added a bolder grille, black alloy wheels, and sport-terrain tires, aiming to enhance its off-road appeal. Despite its rugged exterior, the Terrain remained GMC's entry-level model, evident in the quality of materials and execution of details. The interior featured perforated leather upholstery with caramel-coloured contrast stitching, providing a touch of luxury. However, the Terrain's pushbutton transmission controls and narrow storage tray were seen as design oversights, detracting from its overall functionality.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered robust acceleration and a distinctive V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with the Yukon averaging 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon also boasted an independent rear suspension and an available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable of hustling when necessary, thanks to its oversized wheels and Active Response 4WD system.

The 2022 GMC Terrain, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked the acceleration of the previously available 2.0-litre engine, the 1.5-litre offered decent performance with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Terrain's AWD system provided versatility, with modes for FWD, AWD, and off-road conditions. However, torque steer was an issue in FWD mode, and the sport-terrain tires offered limited grip. The Terrain's fuel economy was commendable, matching the official ratings of 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.3 on the highway.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The front seats, while heated and ventilated, lacked a massage function and could feel hard over long drives. The second-row seats offered improved comfort and cargo room, with a power release function for easy access to the third row. The third-row seat provided actual thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres of space available with the seats folded down, rivaling minivan capacities.

The 2022 GMC Terrain, though a compact crossover, offered a roomy interior with numerous comfort-enhancing features. The AT4 trim included power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. The back seat was spacious, with ample legroom and a rear USB charging port. Despite some design oversights, such as the narrow storage tray, the Terrain provided practical storage solutions throughout the cabin. Cargo space was generous for its class, with 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded down.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali came equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose audio system, and a Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays. However, the Bose audio system was criticized for its flat sound quality. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch colour head-up display and multiple camera views, enhancing maneuverability and safety.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the AT4 trim featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with connected navigation and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was praised for its accuracy and responsiveness, though the Bose speakers were less impressive. The Terrain's Tech Package included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system, adding to its technological appeal. The Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine start were practical features enhancing the Terrain's usability.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added features like blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. The ADAS systems operated smoothly, enhancing the Yukon's safety without being intrusive. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial curb weight provided a sense of security.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, offering a suite of driver-assist features such as forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, though it earned a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.