GMC Terrain vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, new wheel designs, and updated taillights and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level brought a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges, positioning it as a "small off-road SUV." A steel skid plate was added to protect vital components, suggesting GMC anticipated some off-road use. 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 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 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid offered a more conservative design, reminiscent of the popular RAV4 but on a larger scale. The Platinum Hybrid Max trim, tested in Storm Cloud paint, featured a mix of leather and artificial suede upholstery, adding a touch of luxury. The interior emphasized function, with logically laid-out controls and decent material quality. The climate system was user-friendly, though the infotainment interface had some drawbacks, such as a small volume knob and the absence of a tuning knob. The Grand Highlander provided ample seating for up to eight and impressive cargo space, making it a practical choice for families.

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 the torque band. The Terrain's performance was adequate compared to competitors, though the absence of the previously available 2.0-litre engine was felt. The AT4 model 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 suspension provided a comfortable ride on various surfaces, but off-road capabilities were limited, with the front end scraping on uneven terrain.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max focused on performance with its turbocharged 2.4-litre engine and electronic full-time AWD, delivering 362 horsepower. The six-speed automatic transmission avoided the droning typical of CVTs, providing a satisfying driving experience. While the Hybrid Max sacrificed some fuel efficiency, it offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. During testing, fuel economy averaged 9.1 L/100 km on a mixed driving route. The Hybrid Max's acceleration was smooth, aided by electric motors that eliminated turbo lag. The ride quality was soft and isolating, though handling was secure only up to a point, with early tire scrub and squeal.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The dual-zone automatic climate control system was effective, and the perforated leather upholstery with caramel-colour contrast stitching added an upscale touch. The back seat offered ample legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. Cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain also featured a foldable front passenger seat for loading long items.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid excelled in interior space, offering comfortable seating in all three rows and over 2,700 litres of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery. The second-row captain’s chairs with a removable centre console allowed easy access to the third row. The Grand Highlander provided 586 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,761 litres with the second row folded. However, some storage locations were unlined, potentially contributing to noise and vibration.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the AT4 trim featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation, improved voice recognition, and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly praised for its accuracy and responsiveness. The Tech Package option included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine starting system were also notable features.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system across all trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to Apple Music and Amazon Music. Toyota Connected Services offered various features, including a digital voice assistant. The system was user-friendly, though some frustrations included the inability to view multiple main-menu screens simultaneously. The Platinum trim included a colour head-up display, a digital rear-view mirror, and a JBL premium audio system, which delivered better sound quality than expected.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. 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. The NHTSA had not evaluated the Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane keep assist and Proactive Driving Assist. The safety tech operated with accuracy, though some features, like the PDA system, were found irritating. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating due to "Acceptable" ratings for headlight performance and small overlap frontal-impact protection.