When it comes to the 2019 GMC Terrain vs 2019 Toyota RAV4, both vehicles are popular options for compact SUVs among consumers. But, which one is the best choice for you? Featuring a complete 2019 redesign, the new Toyota RAV4 is more advanced than ever before, but the 2019 GMC Terrain remains a strong contender in the compact SUV class. Overall, the 2019 GMC Terrain is more powerful and versatile vehicle when compared to the 2019 Toyota RAV4, but it has even more advantages over its competitor. To help- get you started on your search for a new compact SUV, here are five reasons to choose the 2019 GMC Terrain over the 2019 Toyota RAV4.
#1. It’s More Powerful
The 2019 GMC Terrain comes with three available engine options, including a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine, a 1.6L 4-cylinder diesel engine, and a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. When equipped with its most powerful engine, the 2019 GMC Terrain produces up to 252 hp and 260 lb-ft torque. This power allows for the Terrain’s high maximum towing capacity of 3,500 LBS which allows drivers to tow recreational equipment with ease. Meanwhile, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 offers just one engine option, a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine which produces up to 203 hp and 184 lb-ft torque. For a compact SUV, these are not low numbers but they certainly don’t compete with the 2019 GMC Terrain. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 does share the same maximum towing capacity as the Terrain at 3,500 LBS, however, has only recently been able to deliver capability of this level. In previous model years, the Toyota RAV4 was not known for its power and offered a maximum towing capacity of just 1,500 LBS. Overall, the 2019 GMC Terrain is much more powerful and is a vehicle with years of experience in capability.
#2. It’s More Efficient
With only one engine option, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 falls short in terms of efficiency compared to the three engines of the 2019 GMC Terrain. With its standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 offers fuel economy ratings of up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. For the compact SUV class, these are higher than average numbers. However, the 2019 GMC Terrain is still able to offer even more efficiency. In fact, when equipped with its most efficient engine, the 2019 GMC Terrain offers up to 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. These are class-leading specs and help the Terrain maintain its reputation as a well-rounded and versatile SUV. Redesigned for 2019, drivers and critics have noted disappointment in the RAV4’s low increase in efficiency. Overall, if you’re looking for one of the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs on the market, you’ll want to opt for the 2019 GMC Terrain.
#3. It’s Less Expensive
The 2019 GMC Terrain comes in around $500 less than the 2019 Toyota RAV4, making it the better over value especially when considering its standard features. For the 2019 GMC Terrain, standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen display, leather-wrapped steering wheel, multiple USB ports, Bluetooth, a built-in WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and Teen Driver technology. While the 2019 Toyota RAV4 also includes a standard 7-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it lacks a leather-wrapped steering wheel and offers only one USB port compared to the Terrain’s four USB ports. The Entune infotainment system onboard the 2019 Toyota RAV4 has also received mixed reviews regarding its user-friendliness and dated design. Meanwhile, GMC’s infotainment system is one of the top-rated infotainment systems on the market. Overall, if you’re looking for the better valued compact SUV, you’ll want to choose the 2019 GMC Terrain to enjoy more premium features at a lower price.
#4. It’s More Luxurious
If you’re looking for a more luxurious compact SUV, you’ll be happy with what the 2019 GMC Terrain has to offer. GMC is known for its upscale interiors, and the new Terrain is no exception. Throughout its cabin you’ll find high-quality materials enhanced by soft, smooth surfaces and textured controls. Meanwhile, on the 2019 Toyota RAV4, you’ll find practical but cheap plastics that lack a high-quality feel and make for a lackluster cabin. Across the many trim levels of these two vehicles, you’ll also notice that the 2019 GMC Terrain offers more premium features across its lower levels when compared to the 2019 Toyota RAV4. And if you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury, you can enjoy the iconic Denali trim of the GMC Terrain which features every premium feature you could imagine including a heated steering wheel, a hands-free power liftgate, heated front and rear seats, wireless charging, and a surround view camera. Not many vehicles can compete with the Denali trim, including the 2019 Toyota RAV4.
#5. It’s a GMC Vehicle
When shopping for a new SUV, it’s likely that the brand of your next vehicle is very important to you. And if you’re looking for a brand that has experience in manufacturing powerful, versatile, and luxurious vehicles, you’ll want to choose GMC over Toyota. Overall, Toyota has earned a great reputation for producing reliable, safe, and practical vehicles, while GMC is consistently known for the power and luxury of its vehicles. If these are the qualities you’re looking for during a search for a new SUV, a vehicle manufactured by GMC is a suitable option. GMC is also known for offering some of the best customer service in the industry, made evident by their abundance of top-rated local dealerships.
Used vs New Options
You may also be considering a used GMC Terrain or Toyota RAV4. Both the Terrain and RAV4 have produced reliable and advanced models in the previous model years, making them a suitable option for drivers looking for a more affordable solution to purchasing new. However, it is important to note that the Toyota RAV4 featured a significant redesign for its 2019 model, which included increases in its power, capability, efficiency, and technology. Drivers interested in investing in a used RAV4 should expect lower performance in these categories. For example, models from 2018 and back will have a maximum towing capacity of only 1,500 LBS compared to the 3,500 LB towing capacity of its newest model.
Overall, the Terrain has remained a balanced and versatile SUV since its release on the market as a 2010 model. If you’re interested in purchasing a used GMC Terrain, you’ll want to head to your local GMC dealer to see what they have in stock. While you may not experience all of the latest technology on the market, you’ll be able to find an advanced, powerful, and luxurious vehicle at an affordable price.
Visit Your Local Dealer to Check Out The 2019 GMC Terrain!
If you’re still undecided between the 2019 GMC Terrain vs 2019 Toyota RAV4, it’s important to head to your local dealerships and see these vehicles in person. Both of these compact SUVs are popular vehicles that perform at the top of their class. However, they have different strengths and a few key differences. To determine whether the Terrain or RAV4 suits your lifestyle, budget, and needs be sure to see each vehicle in person and take it for a test drive!
