GMC Terrain vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2022 GMC Terrain presented a refreshed exterior with updated front styling, wheel designs, and taillights, alongside interior trim enhancements. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille, black 17-inch alloy wheels, and AT4 badges, positioning it as a "small off-road SUV." A steel skid plate was included to protect mechanical components, suggesting GMC anticipated some off-road use. The test model featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and was equipped with several packages, including the Tech Package and Infotainment Package II, bringing the MSRP in Canada to $44,757. Despite the high price, the Terrain's interior materials and design did not fully meet expectations of luxury, with some features like the head-up display and pushbutton transmission controls being less intuitive or practical.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in Canada exclusively with the Sport design, including the SE, XSE, and GR Sport trims. The GR Sport trim, inspired by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division, featured a more aggressive grille and rear diffuser, extending the vehicle's length. The RAV4 adopted a boxier, truck-like presence, consistent with Toyota's SUV lineup, and included design elements like daytime running lights and a rear roof spoiler. The Sport trims showcased gloss black accents and racier elements such as red brake calipers and 20-inch black alloy wheels. Inside, the RAV4 offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with the GR Sport trim featuring red stitching and badging. The interior design was streamlined, with a wide centre console and flexible storage options.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The engine's power delivery required drivers to ride the torque band between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm for optimal performance. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the torque band, although the vehicle lacked the acceleration of the previously available 2.0-litre engine. The Terrain 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 AT4 model featured 17-inch wheels and 20.1 centimetres of ground clearance, but its off-road capabilities were limited. The Terrain's ride was smooth on highways and city streets, though it struggled with off-road conditions. Fuel economy was rated at 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.3 on the highway.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's total power output was 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The vehicle offered an estimated electric range of 80 kilometres. The RAV4's AWD system included a front motor rated at 203 hp and a smaller rear motor for assistance and traction. The vehicle's performance was spirited, with a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. The RAV4 offered multiple driving modes, including EV, Hybrid, and Charge, with seamless power transitions. The GR Sport trim featured enhanced handling attributes, with a lower ride height and 20-inch wheels. Despite its weight, the RAV4 maintained comfort and structural rigidity.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a spacious interior with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The AT4 trim included perforated leather upholstery with caramel-colour contrast stitching. The back seat provided ample legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. The Terrain featured various storage solutions, including a storage tray, dashboard shelf, and door panel shelves. Cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,792 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's interior was optimized for storage, with features like a dashboard shelf and multiple storage compartments. The SE trim included power-adjustable and heated front seats, while higher trims offered SofTex upholstery and ventilated seats. The RAV4's passenger space was comparable to standard models, with 960 millimetres of rear legroom. Cargo space was slightly reduced in the PHEV, with 951 litres available, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The interior design included a centre console with flexible storage options and deep door pockets.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with a 7-inch touchscreen standard on SLE trim and an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. The test vehicle featured the Infotainment Package II, with connected navigation and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly praised for its accuracy and responsiveness. The Terrain also offered a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch screen on top trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with climate controls integrated into the touchscreen. The new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and user interface. The Voice Assistant responded to a wide range of prompts, and the system provided information on charging schedules and range maps.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. 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, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain at the time of review.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, with enhanced camera and radar detection. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a safe exit alert. The RAV4's safety record was historically strong, and the redesign aimed to address previous shortcomings. Crash-testing results from the IIHS and NHTSA were pending.