FIVE-POINT COMPARO: TOYOTA RAV4 VS GMC TERRAIN

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Both these cars are their firms’ respective bestsellers in the midsize crossover segment. Both of them are suitably loaded with features and packed with performance. And finally, both of them are versatile with a no-nonsense approach towards design. But which car, between the 2019 GMC Terrain and 2019 Toyota RAV4, suits your preferences? Have a look at this comparo to make an informed decision.

Design

Toyota has been selling the RAV4 internationally since 1994. The current RAV4 is now in its fifth generation, coming a long way from its humble, boxy beginnings. The current RAV4 is a stylish, urban crossover that is still faithfully spacious for families.

The 2019 GMC Terrain looks the business with a bold grille, slash-cut LED headlamps, and long profile.

GMC introduced the first-generation Terrain in 2010, penning it after its elder sibling Yukon. The second-generation 2019 GMC Terrain is far removed from its previous boxy profile, donning a swoopy, modern design. That’s not to say you could not recognise it instantly as a model from the GMC portfolio. The Terrain is also bigger than the RAV4, leading to more space inside.

Safety

Modern cars in UAE are loaded with a cohesive web of safety technology. The Toyota RAV4 is no different, offering ABS, EBD, eight airbags, cruise control, ESP, parking sensors on both ends, and hill start assist.

The GMC Terrain only offers six airbags. But the crossover makes up for it with a well-equipped package of safety systems. You get ABS, traction control, parking sensors backed by a rear parking camera, and hill start assist.

Infotainment

Both the Toyota RAV4 and GMC Terrain are neck-to-neck in this regard. The Toyota comes with a touchscreen infotainment system with GPS navigation. Toyota has yet to add Android Auto to its list of infotainment features, but has Apple CarPlay integration as well as Alexa.

The Toyota RAV4 might not be as feature-loaded as the Terrain, but it offers a bigger touchscreen than its rival, plus minimalist interiors.

The 2019 GMC Terrain is well-equipped, offering both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay across all trims. The GMC features a smaller touchscreen than the RAV4. On the other hand, there is a premium audio system in place so you could enjoy your favourite tunes with high-quality output from the speakers.

Performance

The base SLE trim of the GMC Terrain is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four motor making 170hp and 275Nm. It is coupled to a nine-speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels, propelling the Terrain past 100kph in 9.2 seconds. Top speed stands at 200kph.

The Toyota RAV4 uses a smaller, 1.3-litre inline-four engine that makes more power than the American crossover. Rated at 177hp and 238Nm, this car cracks the ton in 9.5 seconds, topping out at 201kph. Toyota has offered standard four-wheel-drive on all trims of the RAV4.

Pricing/Availability

Prices for the base 2019 Toyota RAV4 1.3L in the UAE start at AED 56,000. The high-end VXR trim costs AED 129,900. The 2019 GMC Terrain SLE 1.5L Turbo in the UAE can be yours for AED 89,900 while you need to shell out AED 164,890 for the full-spec Denali trim.

The official dealer for Toyota cars in the UAE is Al-Futtaim Toyota, while you can shop for GMC cars at Al Ghandi Automobiles.

Toyota has masterfully ushered the faithful RAV4 into a new era for its fifth-generation.

Verdict

The Toyota RAV4 and GMC Terrain can trade punches all day long in all the above departments. We went through both these crossovers with a fine-toothed comb, yet could not ascertain which one of these would come out on top.

If a reliable, frugal, and safe family SUV is what you are looking for, both these cars deserve your attention. As to which one finds a space in your garage is just a matter of personal taste. Do you want a flashy yet potent American SUV or a stylish four-wheel-driven Japanese one?