A couple of months ago, I had a friend call me from a dealership lot. He was standing between two SUVs — a GMC Terrain SLT and a Chevy Equinox LT — both polished, both tempting, both sitting at nearly the same price point. His question was simple: “Which one should I drive home?”
That question isn’t just his. It’s one a lot of buyers face when looking at mid-size SUVs from General Motors. Both models share a platform, yet they have different personalities. I’ve driven them back-to-back more than once, and the difference becomes clear when you pay attention to the details — comfort, trim features, and how each feels behind the wheel.
So, let’s break down the difference between GMC Terrain SLT and Chevy Equinox LT, using real experiences, model history, and some ownership quirks worth knowing.
Table of Contents
GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox: Shared Roots, Different Attitudes
At first glance, the two SUVs look like cousins. That’s because they are. The GMC Terrain and Chevy Equinox share the same basic architecture. In fact, people often ask, “Is GMC Chevy?” Technically, yes. GMC and Chevrolet are both brands under General Motors, and many of their vehicles roll off the same assembly lines with shared engines and transmissions.
But here’s the catch: GMC tends to position itself as a slightly more premium choice. Think of it as a Chevrolet in a tailored jacket. The GMC truck logo carries a bit of rugged prestige, while Chevrolet leans on broader mass-market appeal.
SLT vs LT: What the Trims Mean
When comparing the GMC Terrain SLT and the Chevy Equinox LT, you’re essentially stacking up mid-tier trims.
- Chevy Equinox LT: A step above the LS base trim, offering upgraded infotainment, better interior materials, and available driver-assistance features.
- GMC Terrain SLT: Also a mid-range trim but with more upscale touches like leather upholstery, enhanced driver-assistance tech, and premium interior finishes.
In simple terms: Equinox LT is practical, while Terrain SLT feels more refined.
Interior Dimensions and Comfort
One of the first things I notice when sliding into either SUV is the cabin feel. While they’re close, small differences matter, especially if you carry passengers often.
Here’s a breakdown (based on recent models like the 2020 GMC Terrain SLT interior dimensions and 2021 GMC Terrain SLT AWD interior dimensions vs Chevy Equinox LT):
| Spec | GMC Terrain SLT | Chevy Equinox LT |
| Passenger Volume | ~103 cu ft | ~103 cu ft |
| Cargo Space (behind 2nd row) | 29.6 cu ft | 29.9 cu ft |
| Cargo Space (max) | 63.3 cu ft | 63.9 cu ft |
| Legroom (front/rear) | 40.9 / 39.7 in | 40.9 / 39.9 in |
Honestly, the numbers are nearly identical. In daily use, I found the seats in the Terrain SLT slightly firmer and more supportive, while the Equinox LT felt a touch softer. Families comparing cars with back seats won’t notice much difference, but long-trip drivers might appreciate the Terrain’s supportive design.
Engine and Performance
Both SUVs usually offer a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Acceleration is fine for city and highway driving but won’t blow your socks off.
Where GMC tries to differentiate is with slightly quieter cabins and available AWD systems. For example, the 2021 GMC Terrain SLT AWD interior dimensions are the same as the FWD model, but the driving confidence in bad weather is where you feel the difference.
Chevy, on the other hand, plays up affordability and efficiency. If your priority is saving money at the pump, the Equinox LT edges out the Terrain SLT.
Feature Differences: Where Terrain Pulls Ahead
Here’s where the difference between GMC Terrain SLT and Chevy Equinox LT becomes clear.
GMC Terrain SLT Standouts
- Standard leather seats
- Heated front seats
- Larger digital driver display
- Optional Bose audio system
- Slightly more premium trims and finishes
Chevy Equinox LT Highlights
- Lower starting price
- Optional packages for safety and tech (so you can build it your way)
- Comfortable cloth seats with power adjustment
- Slightly higher resale value in some regions
If you value luxury touches, the Terrain SLT makes more sense. If budget flexibility matters more, the Equinox LT wins.
Price Comparison: GMC Terrain SLT vs Chevy Equinox LT
| Model Year | GMC Terrain SLT (MSRP range) | Chevy Equinox LT (MSRP range) |
| 2018 | $31,000 – $34,000 | $26,000 – $29,000 |
| 2020 | $32,500 – $35,500 | $27,500 – $30,500 |
| 2021 | $33,000 – $36,000 | $28,000 – $31,000 |
| 2022 | $34,000 – $37,500 | $28,500 – $32,000 |
| 2023 | $34,900 – $38,000 | $29,000 – $33,000 |
| 2024 | $35,500 – $38,500 | $29,500 – $33,500 |
| 2025 (expected) | $36,000 – $39,000 | $30,000 – $34,000 |
Key Takeaways From the Table
- On average, the GMC Terrain SLT costs $4,000–$5,000 more than the Chevy Equinox LT.
- The price gap has been consistent since 2018, with Terrain positioned as the premium sibling.
- The Equinox LT remains the value choice, especially for budget-conscious buyers.
- The 2025 GMC Terrain SLT (with the upcoming redesign) may push the premium gap even further.
Trim-by-Trim Feature Comparison
| Feature | GMC Terrain SLT | Chevy Equinox LT |
| Seats | Leather-appointed, heated front seats | Premium cloth, optional power driver’s seat |
| Infotainment | 8-inch display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, optional Bose audio | 7-inch display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, optional premium audio |
| Driver Display | Larger digital driver info cluster | Standard driver info screen |
| Climate Control | Dual-zone automatic climate control (standard) | Manual A/C standard, dual-zone optional |
| Safety Features | GMC Pro Safety Plus suite included (lane keep, blind-spot, forward collision alert) | Chevy Safety Assist standard, blind-spot optional |
| Wheels | 18-inch standard, 19-inch optional | 17-inch standard, 18-inch optional |
| Interior Finishes | Softer touch materials, contrast stitching | Durable cloth upholstery, simpler trim |
| Price Range (2024) | $35,500 – $38,500 | $29,500 – $33,500 |
“Looking at the trims side by side, the Terrain SLT leans into comfort and premium finishes, while the Equinox LT keeps things practical and budget-friendly. This feature checklist highlights the real-world differences you’ll notice as an owner.”
Model Year Highlights and Ownership Notes
I’ve followed the GMC Terrain since it launched in 2010, and there are a few years every shopper should keep in mind.
- 2010 GMC Terrain SLT: Known for issues like service StabiliTrak warnings, ABS lights, and even clunking noises when accelerating and decelerating. If you’re eyeing a used one, budget for repairs like a CV joint replacement or overhead console fixes.
- 2013 GMC Terrain: Watch out for HVAC problems. Some owners needed to replace the AC fuse or recharge AC manually.
- 2014 GMC Terrain: Better reliability but not immune to alternator issues.
- 2016 GMC Terrain SUV: Solid choice with improved interior dimensions for both SLE and SLT trims.
- 2018 GMC Terrain: A redesign year. The 2018 GMC Terrain SLE and 2018 GMC Terrain SLT brought sharper styling, modern infotainment, and a lighter frame.
- 2024 GMC Terrain SLT and 2024 GMC Terrain AT4: Newer trims offer advanced safety and AWD options. The Denali trim even brings near-luxury refinement.
- 2025 GMC Terrain: GMC has already revealed details, with a bolder design coming. The big question remains, “When is 2025 Terrain available?” Expect availability late in 2024.
The Chevy Equinox has had fewer dramatic redesigns, but the 2024 Equinox LT is competitively equipped, making the GMC Terrain SLT 2025 vs Chevy Equinox 2024 LT debate a fresh one for buyers today.
Driving Impressions
When I drove the 2024 GMC Terrain SLT, it felt quieter than the Equinox. Road noise was reduced, and the suspension smoothed out rough patches. The Equinox LT, on the other hand, felt a bit lighter on its feet, especially in city traffic.
So here’s my take:
- For long highway drives → Terrain SLT feels more composed.
- For everyday commuting → Equinox LT feels more agile.
GMC Terrain vs Acadia
Some buyers compare the GMC Terrain vs Acadia, since both are GMC SUVs. The Acadia is larger, seating up to seven, while the Terrain is a two-row SUV better suited for small families or couples. If you’re considering the Equinox LT, the Acadia might feel too big unless you need third-row seating.
Which One Should You Buy?
If I were advising my friend again, here’s how I’d break it down:
- Choose the GMC Terrain SLT if:
- You want leather seats and premium touches.
- You value quieter cabins.
- You plan on keeping the SUV for several years and want a slightly upscale feel.
- You want leather seats and premium touches.
- Choose the Chevy Equinox LT if:
- Budget matters more than luxury.
- You want a straightforward, reliable daily driver.
- You like customizing with optional packages rather than paying for features upfront.
- Budget matters more than luxury.
Takeaway
The difference between GMC Terrain SLT and Chevy Equinox LT isn’t about performance — it’s about personality. Both SUVs share DNA, but the Terrain SLT leans toward refinement while the Equinox LT stays practical and budget-friendly.
If you’re walking onto a lot today, I’d suggest sitting in both. Adjust the seats, check the visibility, and take a drive. Numbers tell one story, but the way each SUV feels in your hands will make the decision clear.
“If you’re still torn between the GMC Terrain SLT and the Chevy Equinox LT, this simple decision chart should make things clearer. Think of it as a shortcut to figuring out which SUV fits your life best.”
Who Should Buy Which?
Start Here → Ask Yourself These Questions
- Is budget your #1 concern?
- ✅ Yes → Go with the Chevy Equinox LT.
- ❌ No → Move to the next question.
- ✅ Yes → Go with the Chevy Equinox LT.
- Do you care about leather seats and premium finishes?
- ✅ Yes → GMC Terrain SLT is your match.
- ❌ No → Keep going.
- ✅ Yes → GMC Terrain SLT is your match.
- Do you drive long highway trips often?
- ✅ Yes → The GMC Terrain SLT offers a quieter ride with more comfort.
- ❌ No → The Equinox LT will be just fine for daily commuting.
- ✅ Yes → The GMC Terrain SLT offers a quieter ride with more comfort.
- Do you prefer customizing with add-on packages instead of paying more upfront?
- ✅ Yes → The Equinox LT lets you build as you go.
- ❌ No → The Terrain SLT comes better equipped right from the start.
- ✅ Yes → The Equinox LT lets you build as you go.
FAQ: GMC Terrain SLT vs Chevy Equinox LT
Q1: Is the GMC Terrain SLT better than the Chevy Equinox LT?
It depends on what you value. The Terrain SLT offers leather seating, premium finishes, and a quieter ride. The Equinox LT is more affordable and still well-equipped, making it the better choice if budget matters most.
Q2: Do the GMC Terrain SLT and Chevy Equinox LT have the same dimensions?
Yes, their interior and cargo dimensions are nearly identical. For example, the 2020 GMC Terrain SLT interior dimensions and the Chevy Equinox LT differ only slightly in rear legroom and cargo volume.
Q3: Which SUV has better resale value, the Terrain SLT or Equinox LT?
The Chevy Equinox LT tends to hold resale value slightly better in most regions, while the Terrain SLT attracts buyers looking for more premium features.
Q4: Is GMC the same as Chevy?
Both GMC and Chevy are owned by General Motors. While they share platforms and engines, GMC trims like the SLT aim for a more upscale feel compared to Chevy’s practical approach.
Q5: Should I buy the 2025 GMC Terrain or the 2024 Chevy Equinox?
If you want the newest styling and premium feel, wait for the 2025 GMC Terrain SLT. If you want proven value today, the 2024 Chevy Equinox LT remains a solid choice.
