2022 GMC Terrain vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Honda CR-V, with its conventional crossover design, did not stand out in a crowded market. Its styling was similar to many competitors, with only minor details like the grille and chromed plastic features distinguishing it. Colour options were limited, with a predominance of neutral shades, making it challenging to find more vibrant hues like Radiant Red. Inside, the CR-V offered a modern look with angular seat designs and upscale touches like wood panels and chrome in higher trims. However, competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offered more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain featured updated styling with a bolder grille, new wheel designs, and refreshed taillights. The AT4 trim level added a rugged touch with black alloy wheels and sport-terrain tires, along with a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The interior boasted a black leather finish with caramel-coloured contrast stitching, enhancing its upscale feel. Despite these updates, the Terrain's interior materials and design did not fully meet expectations for its price range, and the pushbutton transmission controls were not intuitive. Overall, while the Terrain's design updates were notable, they did not significantly elevate its appeal compared to competitors.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower. It offered smooth and steady acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in about 8 seconds. While not the fastest in its class, it was competitive with other crossovers. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) maintained constant engine revs, providing a less engaging driving experience compared to competitors with conventional transmissions. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The CR-V's suspension setup provided decent handling and ride quality, consistent with other vehicles in its class.

The 2022 GMC Terrain featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The engine's power delivery required learning to ride the torque band for optimal performance. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the torque band, but the Terrain lacked the acceleration of its discontinued 2.0-litre engine. The Terrain offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control for varied driving conditions. However, torque steer was an issue in FWD mode. The Terrain's suspension provided a smooth ride on various surfaces, but off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and tire grip.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering ample interior space for five passengers and their gear. It boasted over 100 litres more interior volume than the Toyota RAV4 and slightly more cargo space behind the second row. With the rear seats folded, the CR-V provided 1,065 litres of cargo space. Depending on the trim, the CR-V offered manual, power, or hands-free tailgate operation. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional cargo.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior with numerous comfort features and storage solutions. The AT4 trim included power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. The back seat offered ample legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. The Terrain's cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,792 litres with the rear seats folded. A foldable front passenger seat allowed for loading long items. Despite some storage design flaws, the Terrain offered practical cargo-carrying capabilities.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came standard with a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Lower trims had varying speaker setups, while the Touring trim featured a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. The EX-L trim and above included Sirius XM and HD radio, with satellite navigation available on higher trims. Charging ports were abundant, with USB and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin, and a wireless phone charger on the Touring trim.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the SLE trim and an 8-inch high-definition screen on higher trims. Both systems included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The larger screen offered connected navigation and a Bose premium sound system. The voice recognition system was highly effective, accurately responding to various prompts. The Terrain also featured a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. A Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine start added convenience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. However, it did not achieve the Top Safety Pick+ rating due to headlight and side crash test scores. The CR-V's Honda Sensing system included a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, such as a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Blind spot monitoring was standard on higher trims.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Pro Safety Plus Package, available on higher trims, added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" IIHS crash-test scores, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.