2022 GMC Terrain vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, new wheel designs, and revised taillights and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges, along with a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and a suite of packages, bringing its MSRP in Canada to $44,757. Despite the upscale appearance, the Terrain's interior materials and execution reflected its entry-level status, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and LED headlights distinguishing it. The cabin, however, showcased the legendary Lexus craftsmanship, offering a quiet and refined environment. Available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, the GX's pricing ranged from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the Premium trim, added unique styling elements. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior quality and comfort remained commendable, though some controls were less user-friendly.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's power delivery required some adaptation, the nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain torque availability. The Terrain's towing capacity was limited to 680 kilograms, a reduction from the previous 2.0-litre engine's capability. The AT4 model offered FWD, AWD, and Off-Road modes, with a Hill Descent Control system. Despite its off-road aspirations, the AT4's ground clearance and tire grip were insufficient for serious off-roading. The Terrain's ride quality was generally smooth, though it lacked engaging driving dynamics.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, the GX offered a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms. The GX's design resulted in a high drag coefficient, contributing to its fuel consumption of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved ride stability, making the GX more agreeable to drive despite its age. While the steering was slow and heavy, the GX excelled in off-road capability, aided by features like Multi-Terrain Select and Panoramic View monitoring cameras.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a spacious interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated features, and dual-zone climate control. The AT4 trim included perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching, enhancing the upscale feel. The rear seat offered ample legroom and comfort, with a USB charging port for convenience. Cargo space was generous, with 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain's storage solutions, though numerous, had some design limitations.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, though some were outdated. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The GX's rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, with limited cargo capacity of 328 litres behind the third row and 1,833 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and OnStar services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly effective, though the Bose speakers were less impressive. The Tech Package included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the dual-screen view and voice recognition technology were highlights. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras, though it lacked some modern tech found in competitors.

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, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a Safety Alert Seat. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, though it earned a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the Terrain's crashworthiness.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its age, but it included the Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which could be a consideration for safety-conscious buyers.