Clash of the titans: honda cr-v vs gmc acadia – exploring the key differences that matter

The Honda CR-V and GMC Acadia stand as two formidable contenders in the compact SUV segment, each offering a compelling blend of versatility, comfort, and performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of these two vehicles to determine which one emerges as the superior choice for discerning buyers.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Engine Power and Acceleration

The Honda CR-V boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commutes and occasional adventures. The GMC Acadia, on the other hand, offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 230 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the Acadia’s V6 engine provides more muscle, the CR-V’s turbocharged engine offers impressive acceleration and fuel efficiency.

Fuel Economy

In terms of fuel economy, the Honda CR-V shines with EPA-estimated ratings of 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive models achieve 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The GMC Acadia with the 2.5-liter engine returns 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the V6 engine drops those numbers to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The Acadia’s turbocharged 4-cylinder engine offers a compromise, delivering 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Interior and Cargo Space

Cabin Comfort and Features

Both the Honda CR-V and GMC Acadia offer spacious and comfortable interiors with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The CR-V’s cabin is well-appointed with high-quality materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample storage compartments. The Acadia’s interior is equally impressive, with a more luxurious feel and premium features such as heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose audio system.

Cargo Capacity

When it comes to cargo space, the Honda CR-V offers a generous 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The GMC Acadia provides slightly more space, with 41.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 79 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, the CR-V’s lower load floor makes it easier to load and unload heavy items.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Advanced Safety Systems

Both the Honda CR-V and GMC Acadia come standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The CR-V also includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while these features are optional on the Acadia.

Crash Test Ratings

In terms of crash test ratings, the Honda CR-V has earned a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a “Top Safety Pick+” designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The GMC Acadia has also received a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA but has not yet been tested by IIHS.

Reliability and Maintenance

Long-Term Durability

Honda has a well-established reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the CR-V is no exception. It has consistently ranked among the top-rated compact SUVs in terms of reliability by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The GMC Acadia has also performed well in reliability surveys, but it does not quite match the Honda CR-V’s exceptional track record.

Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs for the Honda CR-V are typically lower than those for the GMC Acadia. According to RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Honda CR-V is $471, while the average annual repair cost for a GMC Acadia is $610.

Value and Pricing

Starting Price and Trims

The Honda CR-V has a lower starting price than the GMC Acadia, with the LX trim starting at $26,800 compared to $34,600 for the SLE trim of the Acadia. The CR-V also offers a wider range of trims and configurations, including the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.

Resale Value

The Honda CR-V has consistently held its value better than the GMC Acadia over time. According to Kelley Blue Book, the CR-V retains around 55% of its original value after five years, while the Acadia retains around 45%.

Final Verdict: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

After carefully comparing the Honda CR-V and GMC Acadia across multiple aspects, the Honda CR-V emerges as the more compelling choice for most buyers. It offers a well-balanced combination of performance, fuel efficiency, interior space, safety, reliability, and value. The GMC Acadia is a solid option with more powerful engine options and a more luxurious interior, but it comes at a higher price and with slightly lower fuel economy and reliability ratings.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Honda CR-V or GMC Acadia?

A: The Honda CR-V has better fuel economy than the GMC Acadia, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 34 mpg highway compared to 29 mpg highway for the Acadia with the 2.5-liter engine.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Honda CR-V or GMC Acadia?

A: The GMC Acadia has slightly more cargo space than the Honda CR-V, with 41.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats compared to 39.2 cubic feet for the CR-V. However, the CR-V’s lower load floor makes it easier to load and unload heavy items.

Q: Which SUV is more reliable, the Honda CR-V or GMC Acadia?

A: The Honda CR-V is more reliable than the GMC Acadia, according to J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. It has consistently ranked among the top-rated compact SUVs in terms of reliability.