Suv showdown: gmc terrain vs. acadia 2017 – which dominates the road?
What To Know
- Standard features in the Terrain include a rearview camera, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.
- The Acadia offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including a larger eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Bose premium audio system, and a hands-free power liftgate.
- Safety is paramount in any vehicle, and both the Terrain and Acadia have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The 2017 GMC Terrain and Acadia are two formidable contenders in the fiercely competitive compact SUV market. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of versatility, functionality, and style, making them highly sought-after choices among discerning SUV shoppers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of each model to help you make an informed decision between these two exceptional SUVs.
Dimensions and Space
The GMC Terrain and Acadia differ significantly in size and seating capacity. The Terrain is a more compact SUV, with an overall length of 182.3 inches and a wheelbase of 112.5 inches. It offers seating for up to five passengers in a two-row configuration.
In contrast, the Acadia is a larger SUV, measuring 193.6 inches in length and riding on a 112.9-inch wheelbase. It is available in both five- and seven-passenger configurations, with the latter offering ample space for families or groups.
Powertrain and Performance
Both the Terrain and Acadia offer a range of powertrain options to suit different driving needs. The Terrain is available with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
The Acadia comes with a more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
In terms of performance, the Acadia has a clear advantage over the Terrain due to its more potent engine. It accelerates more quickly and delivers a smoother and more refined driving experience.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many SUV buyers, and both the Terrain and Acadia offer competitive fuel economy ratings. The Terrain with the 2.4-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive slightly reduces fuel economy to 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
The Acadia with the 3.6-liter V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel drive lowers fuel economy to 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Features and Technology
Both the Terrain and Acadia come well-equipped with a variety of features and technologies to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. Standard features in the Terrain include a rearview camera, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.
The Acadia offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including a larger eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Bose premium audio system, and a hands-free power liftgate.
Safety
Safety is paramount in any vehicle, and both the Terrain and Acadia have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The Terrain received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The Acadia also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.
Both SUVs come standard with a full suite of airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control. Advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking are available as options.
Price
Pricing for the 2017 GMC Terrain starts at $24,295 for the base SLE trim. The top-of-the-line Denali trim starts at $37,495.
The 2017 GMC Acadia has a higher starting price of $29,995 for the base SL trim. The range-topping Denali trim starts at $45,995.
Wrap-Up: Making the Right Choice
The choice between the 2017 GMC Terrain and Acadia ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize compact size, fuel efficiency, and a lower price point, the Terrain is an excellent choice. However, if you require more seating capacity, power, and a comprehensive suite of features, the Acadia is the better option.
Regardless of your choice, both the Terrain and Acadia are exceptional SUVs that offer a great balance of style, functionality, and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a better towing capacity?
A: The GMC Acadia has a higher towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, compared to the Terrain’s 1,500 pounds.
Q: Does either SUV offer a hybrid or electric powertrain?
A: Neither the 2017 GMC Terrain nor Acadia offers hybrid or electric powertrain options.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious cargo area?
A: The GMC Acadia offers a more spacious cargo area than the Terrain, with 12.8 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats.
