2025 Toyota Highlander LE vs 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation
On paper, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE wins on 90 more hp, 107 more lb-ft torque, 13.9″ longer. The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 265 vs 175 hp, 24 vs 25 MPG.
The Highlander LE leads on 90 more hp, 107 more lb-ft torque. The Terrain Elevation leads on $9,820 less. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE | 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,920 | $32,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,332 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 107.5" |
| Length | 194.9" | 181.0" |
| Width | 76.0" | 74.5" |
| Height | 68.1" | 65.8" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation starts at $32,100, $9,820 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $173/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is the stronger pick when you want to keep $9,820 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $70/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation rates 25 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE produces 265 hp, 90 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at 175 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 13.9″ longer at 194.9″ vs 181.0″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 4.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
- 2025 Toyota Highlander LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Highlander and Terrain Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE ($41,920) and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation ($32,100) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-9,820 gap adds up to $173/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Highlander vs Terrain
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has 90 more hp (265 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 107 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation saves roughly $70/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $350.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 13.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE weighs 734 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation when you want to keep $9,820 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Toyota or GMC or any dealership.