Handling
With their comparable turning circles, the Nissan Xterra and the GMC Terrain most definitely handle approximately the same into and out of tight spots.
Drivetrain
The Terrain's engine is tremendously smaller than the Nissan's. Note that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; however, smaller engines typically get better gas mileage.
Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the Xterra is tremendously more powerful than the GMC Terrain.
Utility
Neither the Nissan Xterra nor the GMC Terrain has a marked advantage regarding seating capacity.
There's no clear winner between the GMC Terrain and the Nissan Xterra as far as hauling capacity.
The Nissan Xterra outpulls the GMC Terrain by a massive margin.
Convenience
You will quite certainly have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Xterra than with the Terrain.
Comfort
While the front cabin in the Nissan Xterra offers a bit more head room than the Terrain, there really isn't much of a difference.
The ampler interior dimensions of the GMC Terrain make it considerably roomier for your passengers than the Nissan Xterra.
Dimensions
The Nissan is substantially heavier than the GMC Terrain.
The GMC Terrain's tank is approximately the same size as the Nissan Xterra's, though the Nissan's is somewhat bigger.
The Nissan and the GMC Terrain compete for the same parking spaces.
Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs approximately the same to get the GMC Terrain to the dealership as the Nissan Xterra.
Regarding fuel economy, the GMC Terrain beats the Nissan Xterra.
The Nissan Xterra pales in comparison to the GMC Terrain in terms of gas mileage.
When it comes to MSRP, the Nissan doesn't cost much less than the GMC.
The GMC Terrain will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the Xterra.
Warranty
The GMC Terrain and the Xterra have the same basic after-sale protection.