Toyota highlander vs gmc acadia: which midsize suv reigns supreme in 2023?

When it comes to choosing a spacious and versatile SUV, the Toyota Highlander and GMC Acadia emerge as formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast impressive features, but which one truly stands out? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to determine the winner of this highly anticipated showdown.

Interior Space and Comfort

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers ample seating for up to eight passengers, with generous legroom and headroom throughout. The second-row seats slide forward and backward, allowing for optimal legroom adjustment. The third-row seats, while somewhat cramped, provide adequate space for children or occasional use.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia also accommodates eight passengers, but the seating arrangement is slightly different. The second-row seats are captain’s chairs, providing more individual space and comfort. The third-row seats are more spacious than the Highlander’s, offering a more comfortable experience for adults.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower. It offers a smooth and responsive ride, with ample power for most driving situations. The fuel economy is rated at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. The V6 engine produces 310 horsepower, providing more power than the Highlander. However, the fuel economy is slightly lower, with ratings of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced safety features including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as options.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers a similar suite of safety features under the GMC Pro Safety Plus system. It includes lane keep assist, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available as options.

Technology and Infotainment

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a premium JBL audio system with nine speakers. The instrument cluster includes a 7-inch digital display.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a more user-friendly interface. It also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The instrument cluster includes an 8-inch digital display.

Cargo Capacity and Versatility

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander offers 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats. With the third row folded down, the cargo space expands to 48.4 cubic feet. The second row also folds down flat, creating a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats. With the third row folded down, the cargo space expands to 41.7 cubic feet. The second row also folds down flat, creating a maximum cargo capacity of 79 cubic feet.

Reliability and Resale Value

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has a reputation for exceptional reliability, with high ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. It also holds its value well, making it a solid investment.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia’s reliability is slightly lower than the Highlander’s, but it still ranks above average in its class. Its resale value is also good, although not as strong as the Highlander’s.

Which SUV is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and GMC Acadia depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you prioritize interior space, comfort, and reliability, the Highlander is the superior choice.

If you prefer a more powerful engine, a more spacious third row, and a more user-friendly infotainment system, the Acadia is a strong contender.

What You Need to Know

1. Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
Both the Highlander and Acadia have a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

2. Which SUV has a sunroof?
The Highlander offers a sunroof as an option, while the Acadia has a standard panoramic sunroof.

3. Which SUV has a better warranty?
Both the Highlander and Acadia come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.