Jeep Wrangler vs GMC Terrain

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 brought a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges. A steel skid plate was added to protect vital components, aligning with GMC's claim of the Terrain AT4 as a "small off-road SUV." The test vehicle featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and a suite of packages, raising the MSRP to $41,810. Despite the upscale appearance, the Terrain's interior materials and execution did not fully meet expectations for its price range, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler maintained its rugged, no-nonsense design with its fourth-generation JL model, characterized by its boxy shape and iconic seven-slot grille. Available in two-door and four-door configurations, the Wrangler offered the option to remove doors and fold down the windshield for an open-air experience. The Wrangler's design was simple yet functional, with features like wide fenders and a tailgate that swings out for easy cargo access. The limited-edition Reign purple paint added a unique flair to the vehicle. Inside, the Wrangler focused on practicality with easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls, though it lacked some luxury features like ambient lighting or massaging seats.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. This engine replaced the previously available 2.0-liter turbocharged option, reducing the Terrain's towing capacity to 1,500 pounds. The 1.5-liter engine delivered its power at higher RPMs, requiring drivers to adapt to its torque band for optimal performance. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the engine's torque, but the Terrain's acceleration was less impressive compared to its competitors. The Terrain AT4 offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control for varied driving conditions. However, torque steer was noticeable in FWD mode, and the AT4's off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and tire grip.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler excelled in off-road performance with its solid axles and optional differential lockers. It offered a range of engine options, including a standard V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a powerful 6.4-liter V8 engine with 470 horsepower, providing exhilarating acceleration and off-road prowess. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered a more eco-friendly option with 21 miles of all-electric range. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by different transfer cases and the Xtreme Recon package, which improved its crawl ratio. However, the 392 model's on-road performance was hindered by inadequate brakes and vague steering, issues less pronounced in other Wrangler trims.

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 caramel-colored stitching, adding a touch of luxury. The rear seat offered ample legroom and support, with a USB charging port for convenience. Despite some storage limitations, the Terrain offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The front passenger seat could also be folded for longer items.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, but rear seating was tight, especially in the four-door models. Storage for small items was limited, with a flat dash and small glove box and center console. The Wrangler offered 72.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, slightly less than its competitor, the Bronco. The Wrangler's removable hard and soft tops provided versatility for open-air driving, with options like the Sky One-Touch power soft top for convenience. The Wrangler also featured multiple charging points, including USB ports and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM radio. The larger screen offered connected navigation and a Bose premium sound system. The voice recognition system was highly praised for its accuracy and responsiveness. The Terrain also featured a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing its technological offerings.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system initially appeared complex but was intuitive once familiarized. The Wrangler's off-road pages provided valuable information for adventurous drivers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, and the Wrangler featured a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories. However, it lacked some advanced tech features like a digital key or comprehensive over-the-air updates.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The optional GMC Pro Safety Plus Package added features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. 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 2022 Terrain at the time of review.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's standard safety features were limited to a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on the top 392 model or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS, with some trims' headlights rated as "Poor." The NHTSA awarded the Wrangler four stars for frontal crash tests and three stars for rollover ratings.