Suv showdown: gmc acadia vs. terrain – which one rules the road?

The GMC Acadia and Terrain are two formidable contenders in the competitive midsize SUV segment. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, space, and performance, making them popular choices among families and adventure enthusiasts alike. However, discerning buyers may wonder which option best suits their needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the GMC Acadia vs. Terrain, empowering you to make an informed decision.

Interior Space and Versatility

The GMC Acadia offers ample space for up to seven passengers, with two comfortable rows of seating and an optional third row. The Terrain, on the other hand, seats up to five passengers in a more compact cabin. Both vehicles feature spacious cargo areas, but the Acadia boasts a larger maximum capacity of 79 cubic feet compared to the Terrain’s 63 cubic feet.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

The GMC Acadia comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. Optional engine choices include a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, and a high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 230 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Terrain offers a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. It also has an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel economy, the GMC Acadia with the base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Terrain with the standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Technology and Features

Both the GMC Acadia and Terrain offer a wide range of advanced technology and features. The Acadia comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels add features such as a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen, Bose premium audio, navigation, and a head-up display. The Terrain also offers an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a seven-speaker audio system. Available features include a larger 10-inch touchscreen, Bose premium audio, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Safety and Reliability

Both the GMC Acadia and Terrain have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. Available safety features include lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

In terms of reliability, the GMC Acadia has a slightly higher predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power than the Terrain. However, both vehicles have a solid reputation for dependability.

Off-Road Capabilities

While both the GMC Acadia and Terrain are primarily designed for on-road use, they both offer optional all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in inclement weather and light off-roading. The Acadia’s available all-wheel drive system includes an active torque management system that can automatically transfer power between the front and rear wheels as needed. The Terrain’s available all-wheel drive system features a dual-clutch rear differential that can send up to 100% of the available power to the rear wheels for improved off-road performance.

Price and Value

The GMC Acadia has a starting price of $33,800 for the base SLE trim level. The Terrain starts at a lower price of $27,495 for the base SLE trim level. However, the Acadia offers more standard features and a larger interior space, while the Terrain offers better fuel economy and a more compact size.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The GMC Acadia and Terrain are both excellent midsize SUVs that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. The Acadia is a better choice for buyers who prioritize space, performance, and off-road capabilities, while the Terrain is a more fuel-efficient and affordable option for buyers who prefer a compact size and better fuel economy.

The Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Titans

Ultimately, the best choice between the GMC Acadia vs. Terrain depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value space, performance, and off-road capabilities, the Acadia is an excellent choice. If you prioritize fuel economy, affordability, and a compact size, the Terrain is a better fit. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, space, and performance, making them worthy contenders in the midsize SUV segment.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity, the GMC Acadia or the Terrain?
A: The GMC Acadia offers a larger cargo capacity of 79 cubic feet compared to the Terrain’s 63 cubic feet.

Q: Which SUV offers a more powerful engine?
A: The GMC Acadia offers a more powerful optional engine, a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower compared to the Terrain’s optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 252 horsepower.

Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The GMC Terrain with the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers better fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway compared to the Acadia’s base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV offers more advanced safety features?
A: Both the GMC Acadia and Terrain offer a wide range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: Both the GMC Acadia and Terrain have a solid reputation for reliability, but the Acadia has a slightly higher predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power.