2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges. A steel skid plate was also included to protect vital components, as GMC positioned the Terrain AT4 as a "small off-road SUV." The test vehicle featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and was equipped with several packages, bringing the MSRP in Canada to $44,757. Despite the high price, the Terrain's interior materials and execution did not fully meet expectations, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between a classic two-door or a more practical four-door body style, with various engine options including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline-powered V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions available. Our test vehicle was the High Tide model, based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, featuring a gasoline V6 engine with eTorque mild hybrid electrification, an automatic transmission, and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with a focus on durability and functionality, and the driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and rugged feel.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The engine's power delivery required some adaptation, as the torque was available between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm, with a delay off the line. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the torque band, but the absence of the previously available turbocharged 2.0-litre engine was felt. The Terrain AT4 offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control system. However, torque steer was an issue in FWD mode. The Terrain's ride was smooth on highways and city streets, but off-road performance was limited, with the front end scraping on uneven terrain.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system provided versatility in various driving conditions. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of driving. The driving experience was characterized by loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a rough ride, but these traits were part of the Wrangler's charm, offering a unique and immersive experience. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were a highlight, providing a sense of freedom and adventure.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a spacious interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The AT4 trim featured perforated leather upholstery with caramel-colour contrast stitching, adding an upscale feel. The back seat provided ample legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. Cargo space was generous, with 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain also offered various storage solutions, although some were less practical.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was functional, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some adjustment. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views and others being compromised. Rear-seat passengers faced entry and exit challenges but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was 898 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the seat folded. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLE trim featuring a 7-inch touchscreen and the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. 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, a surround-view camera system, and a Tire Fill Alert system.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a navigation system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during open-air driving.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and a following distance indicator. The optional GMC Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, rear parking sensors, and a Safety Alert Seat. The IIHS awarded the Terrain mostly "Good" crash-test scores, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the Terrain's crashworthiness.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Wrangler received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and "Marginal" ratings in IIHS crash tests. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler's design required careful driving.