Which SUV delivers better performance?

When it comes to raw power, the Buick Envision takes the lead with its 2.0L turbocharged engine generating 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This provides responsive acceleration and confident highway passing capability. The Envision comes standard with a 9-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts and contributes to its refined driving character.

In comparison, the GMC Terrain utilizes a powertrain making 175 horsepower but offers slightly more torque at 275 lb-ft. While the Terrain may not match the Envision horsepower, its higher torque rating helps provide strong initial acceleration from a stop and makes it capable when towing. Both SUVs come with standard all-wheel drive systems that provide excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.

Regarding fuel efficiency, the GMC Terrain holds a slight advantage with ratings of 10.0 L/100km in the city, 8.4 L/100km on the highway, and 9.3 L/100km combined. The Buick Envision follows closely with ratings of 10.8 L/100km city, 8.3 L/100km highway, and 9.7 L/100km combined. The marginal difference means both vehicles offer comparable real-world fuel economy.

How do their designs compare?

The Buick Envision showcases a more upscale, sophisticated aesthetic with clean lines and elegant proportions. Its redesigned exterior features a bold front fascia with a prominent grille and sleek LED headlights that create an instantly recognizable presence. The Avenir trim elevates the design further with exclusive styling elements and premium details.

The GMC Terrain, with its more rugged styling, embodies the brand’s professional-grade identity. The Terrain exterior design has a bolder, more angular approach with a distinctive C-shaped lighting signature and a more squared-off silhouette. The Elevation trim adds blacked-out elements for a more athletic stance.

Inside, the Envision establishes itself as the more premium option with an ultrawide 30″ diagonal screen that dominates the dashboard—the largest in its class. The cabin features ambient lighting, quilted leather seating on higher trims, and exceptional attention to detail. The Terrain interior, while still well-appointed, focuses more on practical utility with durable materials and a straightforward layout.

What technology features set these SUVs apart?

Technology is where the Buick Envision truly distinguishes itself. Its ultrawide 30″ diagonal display integrates infotainment, driver information, and controls into one sweeping interface. The system comes with Google built-in compatibility, providing hands-free assistance via Google Assistant and seamless navigation through Google Maps. Additional tech highlights include a head-up display, wireless device charging, and remote start capabilities.

The GMC Terrain offers a capable but less dramatic tech package. Both vehicles support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, but the larger display and more advanced interface in the Envision create a more futuristic user experience. The Terrain does maintain competitiveness with its own suite of connected services and intuitive controls.

Sound system quality varies between the models, with the Envision offering a premium Bose 9-speaker audio system that delivers excellent clarity and depth. Both SUVs provide multiple USB ports and wireless connectivity options to keep devices charged and connected.

How do their safety features compare?

Safety is a strong suit for both vehicles, with comprehensive suites of driver-assistance technologies. The Buick Envision includes Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Blind Zone Steering Assist, and HD Surround Vision.

The GMC Terrain matches many of these features while adding some unique capabilities. Both vehicles have received excellent safety ratings, though the Envision edges ahead with its 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. The Terrain features standard Front Collision Mitigation, Cross-Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring.

Advanced features like Rear Pedestrian Alert and Side Bicyclist Alert demonstrate how both GM vehicles are incorporating cutting-edge safety technology to protect not just occupants but also vulnerable road users.

What differentiates their driving experiences?

The Buick Envision delivers a distinctly premium driving experience, emphasized by its QuietTuning technology with Active Noise Cancellation that creates an exceptionally peaceful cabin. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure through corners. The higher-powered engine provides more confidence during highway merges and passing maneuvers.

The GMC Terrain offers a slightly firmer ride that emphasizes control and responsiveness. Its precise steering and good visibility make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Though less powerful than the Envision, the higher torque rating of the Terrain provides good initial acceleration and makes it feel punchy in city driving.

Both vehicles provide comfortable seating positions with good outward visibility, though the slightly larger Envision dimensions translate to marginally more passenger and cargo space.

5 Facts About the Buick Envision and GMC Terrain

1. The Buick Envision features QuietTuning technology that incorporates triple door seals and acoustic laminated glass to create one of the quietest cabins in its class.
2. The GMC Terrain shifter system uses innovative electronic precision shift buttons instead of a traditional shifter, freeing up console space.
3. The Buick Envision ultrawide 30″ screen is actually a single continuous display rather than multiple screens placed side by side.
4. Both vehicles are built on GM’s global architecture but are tuned differently—the Envision for luxury and the Terrain for versatility.
5. The Buick Envision Avenir trim includes a unique massaging driver’s seat feature rarely found in this vehicle segment.

Questions and Answers: 2025 Buick Envision vs GMC Terrain

Which vehicle has better fuel economy?

• The GMC Terrain has slightly better combined fuel economy at 9.3 L/100km compared to the 9.7 L/100km of the Buick Envision.

Does the Buick Envision have more horsepower than the GMC Terrain?

• Yes, it has 228 horsepower, which is 53 more than the 175 horsepower of the Terrain.

Which SUV has more cargo space?

• The Buick Envision offers 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 52.7 cubic feet with seats folded, providing slightly more space than the Terrain.

Do both vehicles come with all-wheel drive?

• Yes, both the come standard with intelligent all-wheel drive systems.

Which model has more advanced safety features?

• Both offer comprehensive safety suites, but the Buick Envision includes some additional features like Rear Pedestrian Alert and Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking not standard on all Terrain trims.

What infotainment systems do these SUVs use?

• The Buick Envision uses an ultrawide 30″ diagonal display with Google built-in, while the GMC Terrain uses a smaller but still capable touchscreen infotainment system.

Do both vehicles offer heated seats?

• Yes, both offer heated front seats, with the Buick Envision Avenir also including heated rear outboard seats.

Which SUV has better warranty coverage?

• Both vehicles offer identical warranty coverage with a 36-month/60,000 km basic warranty and a 60-month/100,000 km powertrain warranty.

Is there a significant difference in ride comfort?

• The Buick Envision provides a more luxury-oriented ride with its QuietTuning technology, while the GMC Terrain offers a slightly firmer, more responsive driving experience.

Which vehicle is better for towing?

• Despite having less horsepower, the higher torque rating of 275 lb-ft of the Terrain makes it slightly better for towing compared to the 258 lb-ft of the Envision.