If you're looking for a brand-new compact SUV, it's never been a more fantastic time than now. The rise in popularity of the segment has led to almost all passenger car manufacturers having one in their line-ups. You'll see options from American, Far Eastern, and European manufacturers. The 2023 GMC Terrain and 2023 Jeep Compass are two choices among the myriad contenders.
The 2023 Terrain and 2023 Compass hail from iconic and established American brands. The GMC SUV is based on the model's second generation, which saw a refresh in 2022. The 2023 Compass is also based on its second-generation model, which received a facelift in 2020.
Which is the best compact SUV out of the 2023 GMC Terrain and 2023 Jeep Compass? Let's find out. Stay with us as we compare these two popular vehicles in terms of interior appointments, performance characteristics, and safety features. In the meantime, if you’ve got a hankering for a 2023 Terrain, why not call our team at Bob Brady Buick GMC and arrange a viewing?
The 2023 Terrain and 2023 Compass are proper five-seat vehicles. The 2023 Terrain has the edge on cabin space, as it manages to eke out more head, leg, and shoulder room across both rows. It's also got a larger trunk, at 29.6 cubic feet, versus the 27.2 cubic feet offered by the 2023 Compass.
Fold the rear seats on each crossover, and the 2023 Terrain offers 63 cubic feet. You'll also appreciate the 60/40 split-folding rear seat, plus the fold-flat front seat on the 2023 Terrain that facilitates carrying long items. In contrast, the 2023 Compass only offers 59 cubic feet, and you can’t do the same front-seat fold trick as in the 2023 Terrain.
The 2023 Terrain offers a 7-inch touchscreen, while the 2023 Compass offers an 8-inch unit. Both cars support Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ and come with dual-zone climate control for comfort. The 2023 Terrain also throws in a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, plus a heads-up display on higher trim levels. Other options for the 2023 Terrain include heated and ventilated front seats and a Skyscape sunroof.
The 2023 Terrain features a powerful yet frugal 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that develops 175 horsepower. Drive goes to the front wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. You can spec an all-wheel-drive system for added traction if desired. Some variants come with a Traction Select system that offers off-road modes plus a front steel skid plate for added protection.
The 2023 Compass comes with a thirstier 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that develops 200-horsepower and sends it to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Being a Jeep, it comes with some off-road modes too.
The 2023 Terrain and 2023 Compass come with at least six airbags, stability control, child safety locks, automated emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist as standard fitment. The 2023 Terrain adds pedestrian detection and lane departure warning and offers adaptive cruise control, plus 360-degree camera system as options.
The 2023 GMC Terrain is the clear winner in our shootout. The cabin is far more practical, and you’ve also got some nifty options to choose from. It’s also got more safety features as standard, which is a critical factor to consider when buying any vehicle. So swing by Bob Brady Buick GMC in Forsyth, IL, and look at the 2023 Terrain range.