GMC Terrain vs Subaru Crosstrek

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to meet the growing demand for crossovers with rugged aesthetics and all-wheel drive (AWD). By adding black body cladding, model-specific 17-inch wheels, and a taller ride height, Subaru transformed the Impreza into a vehicle with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, giving it a more SUV-like presence. The Crosstrek's vibrant color options, such as Plasma Yellow Pearl, added to its appeal, while the Subaru Global Platform provided a refined driving experience. Inside, the Crosstrek retained the Impreza's functional but plain interior, with some questionable design choices like the clashing Plasma Yellow Pearl accents in the Sport trim.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain received updates to its front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The new AT4 trim level featured a bold grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels, and a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle, with its Ebony Twilight metallic paint and black leather interior, was equipped with numerous packages, raising its MSRP to $41,810. While the Terrain offered more affordable SLE and SLT trims, the Denali trim added luxury. However, the Terrain's entry-level status was evident in the quality of materials and execution, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline powertrains: a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque for the Sport and Limited trims, and a 2.0-liter boxer-four engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque for the Base and Premium trims. The Crosstrek Hybrid plug-in hybrid was also available. The boxer engine's lower profile improved handling, although the SUV-like stance negated some benefits. A six-speed manual transmission was standard on Base and Premium trims, while a CVT was optional. All trims featured standard AWD with torque vectoring and X-Mode for loose surfaces. Despite its SUV-like features, the Crosstrek was better suited for pavement, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The previously available turbocharged 2.0-liter engine was discontinued, reducing towing capacity to 1,500 pounds. The nine-speed automatic transmission kept the Terrain in the torque band, but acceleration was delayed. The Terrain AT4 offered FWD and AWD modes, with Off-Road and Hill Descent Control systems. However, torque steer was an issue in FWD mode. The Terrain's 7.9 inches of ground clearance was less than competitors, and its off-road capabilities were limited. On pavement, the Terrain provided a smooth ride, but off-road, it struggled with clearance issues.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo space. With 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded, the Crosstrek lagged behind some competitors. The CVT-equipped models featured a rear-seat reminder, and the front offered a cubby hole with USB and auxiliary ports. However, storage space was minimal, and the driving position, while higher than the Impreza, didn't provide the commanding view of traditional SUVs. Visibility was good, thanks to large side windows and a car-like front fascia.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior with numerous comfort features and storage solutions. The AT4 trim included power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The back seat offered ample legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. Despite some disappointing storage tray designs, GMC maximized storage options throughout the interior. Cargo space measured 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The front passenger seat could also be folded for longer items, enhancing cargo versatility.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Premium and Sport trims added WiFi and SiriusXM, while an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation was standard on the Limited trim. The system included a second screen above the main touchscreen, displaying redundant information. The 8-inch touchscreen was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons, ensuring ease of use.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems: a 7-inch touchscreen for SLE trim and an 8-inch high-definition touchscreen for SLT, AT4, and Denali trims. Both systems included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay/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 Tech Package added a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine start were practical features.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests and four stars in frontal and rollover tests. The IIHS awarded the 2020 model a "Top Safety Pick" with "good" ratings in all crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. EyeSight driver-assist features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, EyeSight's cameras were limited by windshield wipers and direct sunlight.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The GMC Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The IIHS awarded the Terrain mostly "Good" crash-test scores, but a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.