GMC Terrain Vs. Ford Edge: Which SUV Is Best?

Hey guys! So, you're in the market for a reliable and spacious SUV, huh? Awesome! You've narrowed it down to two fantastic contenders: the 2015 GMC Terrain and the 2016 Ford Edge. Both are solid choices, but figuring out which one perfectly fits your needs can feel like a real head-scratcher. Don't sweat it! We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison, looking at everything from performance and fuel economy to interior space and features, so you can confidently choose the SUV that's your perfect match. Let's get started!

Performance and Handling: Under the Hood

Okay, let's talk performance. When it comes to SUVs, you want something that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between. The 2015 GMC Terrain offers two engine choices: a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and an available 3.6-liter V6. The four-cylinder is decent for fuel economy, but if you crave extra power for merging onto the highway or hauling cargo, the V6 is definitely the way to go. It provides a noticeable boost in acceleration and overall driving enjoyment. Handling in the Terrain is generally comfortable, making it a pleasant ride for long trips. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road quite well, ensuring a smooth experience for both the driver and passengers.

Now, let's shift our focus to the 2016 Ford Edge. This SUV also gives you a choice of engines, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a powerful 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 in the Sport trim. The turbocharged four-cylinder in the Edge delivers a surprisingly punchy performance, offering a good balance between fuel efficiency and power. The V6 options take things up a notch, providing ample power for confident acceleration and towing capabilities. One of the standout features of the Edge is its sharp handling. It feels more agile and responsive than the Terrain, making it fun to drive on winding roads. The steering is precise, and the suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control. The 2016 Ford Edge tends to deliver a more engaging driving experience overall, especially with the available V6 engines.

To summarize, if you prioritize a comfortable ride and have the option for a robust V6, the 2015 GMC Terrain is a strong contender. But if you are looking for agile handling and a range of engine choices, including a fuel-efficient turbo four-cylinder and a sporty twin-turbo V6, the 2016 Ford Edge is worth serious consideration. The Ford Edge tends to deliver a more engaging driving experience overall, especially with the available V6 engines.

Fuel Economy: Saving at the Pump

Fuel economy is a huge factor for most of us when choosing an SUV. No one wants to spend a fortune at the gas pump, right? So, let's break down how these two SUVs compare in terms of MPG. The 2015 GMC Terrain, with its standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. These numbers are respectable for the class, making it a decent choice for daily commuting. However, if you opt for the V6 engine in the Terrain, fuel economy drops to around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. This is a significant decrease, so it's something to keep in mind if fuel efficiency is a top priority.

On the other hand, the 2016 Ford Edge offers a range of fuel economy figures depending on the engine you choose. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is the most fuel-efficient option, boasting an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. This makes it a strong competitor to the Terrain's four-cylinder in terms of gas mileage. The 3.5-liter V6 in the Edge delivers around 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, which is slightly better than the Terrain's V6. If you're looking for the most performance, the 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 in the Edge Sport gets around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, similar to the Terrain's V6. The Ford Edge has the fuel-efficient edge with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

In a nutshell, the 2016 Ford Edge generally offers better fuel economy, especially with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. If you're looking to save money on gas in the long run, the Edge might be the more appealing option. However, the 2015 GMC Terrain's four-cylinder still provides decent fuel economy, so it's not a complete slouch in this department. Think about your driving habits and how much you prioritize fuel efficiency when making your decision.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Passengers and Cargo

Interior space and comfort are crucial when you're talking about SUVs. You want a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo, whether you're hauling the family or loading up for a road trip. Let's see how the 2015 GMC Terrain and 2016 Ford Edge stack up in this area.

The 2015 GMC Terrain offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating for five passengers. The rear seats have a unique sliding and reclining feature, which allows passengers to adjust their seating position for optimal comfort. This is a nice touch, especially on long journeys. When it comes to cargo space, the Terrain provides 31.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a generous 63.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is ample space for groceries, luggage, or other gear. The interior design of the Terrain is functional and well-laid-out, with easy-to-reach controls. However, some might find the materials and overall design a bit dated compared to newer SUVs. The 2015 GMC Terrain is a solid choice for those prioritizing passenger comfort and cargo flexibility.

On the other side, the 2016 Ford Edge also provides seating for five passengers, but it boasts a more modern and upscale interior design. The materials feel premium, and the cabin has a more refined ambiance. The rear seats are comfortable, though they don't offer the sliding and reclining feature found in the Terrain. In terms of cargo space, the Edge offers 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which is significantly more than the Terrain. With the rear seats folded down, the Edge provides 73.4 cubic feet of cargo space, giving you even more room for larger items. The 2016 Ford Edge excels in interior design and cargo capacity.

To sum it up, the 2016 Ford Edge edges out the 2015 GMC Terrain in terms of cargo space and overall interior design. If you frequently haul larger loads or prefer a more modern cabin, the Edge is the clear winner. However, the Terrain's sliding and reclining rear seats offer added passenger comfort, which might be a deciding factor for some. Consider how you plan to use your SUV and which aspects of interior space and comfort are most important to you.

Features and Technology: Staying Connected and Entertained

Let's move on to features and technology. In today's world, we want our cars to keep us connected, entertained, and safe. So, how do the 2015 GMC Terrain and 2016 Ford Edge measure up in this department?

The 2015 GMC Terrain comes standard with a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as a sunroof, a power liftgate, navigation, and a premium audio system. While the Terrain's technology is functional, some might find the infotainment system a bit clunky and outdated compared to newer systems. The graphics aren't as sharp, and the response times can be a bit slow. However, the Terrain does offer essential features to keep you connected on the road.

Now, let's talk about the 2016 Ford Edge. The Edge comes standard with a rearview camera, Ford's SYNC infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels offer a larger touchscreen display with the updated SYNC 3 system, which is a significant improvement over the previous version. SYNC 3 is more user-friendly, with faster response times and a more intuitive interface. The Edge also offers available features such as a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free liftgate, adaptive cruise control, and a suite of advanced safety features. The Ford Edge shines with its modern technology offerings. The 2016 Ford Edge generally offers a more modern and user-friendly technology experience.

In conclusion, the 2016 Ford Edge has a clear advantage in terms of features and technology, especially with its available SYNC 3 infotainment system. If you prioritize having the latest tech in your car, the Edge is the way to go. The 2015 GMC Terrain offers essential features, but its technology isn't as cutting-edge. So, think about the features you need and want in your SUV when making your decision.

Safety Ratings and Reliability: Peace of Mind on the Road

Safety and reliability are non-negotiable when choosing a vehicle, especially for families. You want an SUV that will protect you and your loved ones in case of an accident and one that won't leave you stranded on the side of the road. Let's take a look at how the 2015 GMC Terrain and 2016 Ford Edge perform in these critical areas.

The 2015 GMC Terrain has generally received good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It earned an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA and good ratings in several IIHS crash tests. The Terrain also comes standard with safety features such as antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Reliability ratings for the Terrain are generally average, with some model years experiencing more issues than others. It's always a good idea to check specific model year reliability ratings before making a purchase.

On the flip side, the 2016 Ford Edge has also earned strong safety ratings. It received an overall 5-star rating from NHTSA and was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The Edge offers a range of available safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning. These features can help prevent accidents and enhance your safety on the road. Reliability ratings for the Edge are generally good, making it a dependable choice. The 2016 Ford Edge is a strong contender in safety and reliability.

In summary, both the 2015 GMC Terrain and 2016 Ford Edge offer solid safety ratings. The Edge has a slight edge with its 5-star NHTSA rating and available advanced safety features. Reliability ratings are generally good for both SUVs, but it's always wise to research specific model year reliability before buying. Ultimately, both SUVs provide peace of mind when it comes to safety and dependability.

Pricing and Value: Getting the Best Bang for Your Buck

Finally, let's talk about pricing and value. Budget is a major consideration for most car buyers, so it's important to understand how these two SUVs compare in terms of cost. The 2015 GMC Terrain typically has a lower starting price compared to the 2016 Ford Edge. This might make the Terrain an attractive option if you're looking for a more budget-friendly SUV. However, it's essential to consider the features and equipment you get for the price. The value proposition depends on your individual needs and preferences.

The 2016 Ford Edge, while generally more expensive than the Terrain, often comes with more standard features and a more modern design. The Edge's superior cargo space, updated technology, and more engaging driving experience might justify the higher price tag for some buyers. When evaluating value, it's crucial to consider not just the initial purchase price but also factors such as fuel economy, maintenance costs, and resale value. The Ford Edge offers great features for its price range.

In conclusion, the 2015 GMC Terrain might be a better choice if you're on a tight budget. However, the 2016 Ford Edge offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value for the money. It's best to weigh the initial cost against the long-term benefits and features you desire in an SUV. Think about what you value most in a vehicle and choose the one that gives you the best bang for your buck.

The Verdict: Which SUV Wins?

Alright, guys, we've covered a lot of ground! So, which SUV comes out on top in the battle between the 2015 GMC Terrain and the 2016 Ford Edge? The answer, as with most car comparisons, depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you prioritize a comfortable ride, a lower starting price, and the unique sliding and reclining rear seats, the 2015 GMC Terrain is a solid choice. It offers a spacious interior and decent fuel economy, especially with the four-cylinder engine. The Terrain is a practical and reliable SUV that can handle everyday tasks with ease.

However, if you value a more engaging driving experience, superior cargo space, modern technology, and a more upscale interior, the 2016 Ford Edge is the winner. The Edge offers a range of engine choices, including a fuel-efficient turbo four-cylinder and a powerful twin-turbo V6. Its sharp handling and advanced features make it a standout in the midsize SUV class. The 2016 Ford Edge is the winner if you value modern features and performance.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive both SUVs and see which one feels like the better fit for you. Consider your budget, your driving needs, and the features that are most important to you. Happy car shopping!