The GMC Acadia is comparable to several mid-size three-row SUVs, each offering unique features and benefits; COMPARE.EDU.VN simplifies your decision-making process by providing comprehensive comparisons. This guide explores alternatives like the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander, helping you find the perfect vehicle. Discover alternatives and features such as seating capacity, fuel efficiency, and safety ratings.
1. Understanding the GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia, marketed as a “Professional Grade” mid-size three-row crossover, excels as both a family vehicle and a mobile office. Its wide range of trim levels and prices makes it accessible to various buyers. The base Acadia SLE starts around $29,000, while the top-tier Acadia Denali begins at $45,500.
Key Features of the GMC Acadia:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers.
- Storage: Ample cabin storage.
- Noise Cancellation: Active noise cancellation for a pleasant ride.
- Safety: Standard rear seat reminder.
- Connectivity: Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
- Power Outlets: Multiple USB power points throughout the cabin.
Given these features, let’s explore comparable vehicles that offer similar or enhanced capabilities.
2. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse, redesigned in 2018, shares a platform with the GMC Acadia but offers more space and seating.
Key Features of the Chevrolet Traverse:
- Seating: Up to eight passengers.
- Wheelbase: 120.9 inches (compared to Acadia’s 112.5 inches).
- Engines:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder (RS FWD trim)
- 3.6-liter V6 (other trims)
- Transmission: Nine-speed automatic.
- Drive: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Price Range: $31,125 (L FWD) to $54,195 (High Country AWD).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 8 |
| Wheelbase | 112.5 inches | 120.9 inches |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.0L Turbo I4, 3.6L V6 |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $31,125 |
Why Consider the Chevrolet Traverse?
The Traverse offers more passenger space and a similar driving experience to the Acadia, making it a solid choice for larger families.
3. Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango has evolved into a refined mid-size crossover with seating for up to seven passengers.
Key Features of the Dodge Durango:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers.
- Engines:
- 3.6-liter V6 with variable valve timing
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 (available)
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8 (SRT model)
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Price Range: $29,995 (SXT RWD) to $62,995 (SRT AWD).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Dodge Durango |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 3.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 6.4L V8 |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $29,995 |
Why Consider the Dodge Durango?
The Durango stands out with its powerful engine options, including V8 variants, making it a robust choice for those needing extra power and towing capacity. It also shares many features with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
4. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a reliable three-row mid-size crossover, refreshed for the 2019 model year, known for its safety features and comfortable ride.
Key Features of the Honda Pilot:
- Seating: Up to eight passengers.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6.
- Transmission:
- Six-speed automatic (LX, EX, EX-L)
- Nine-speed automatic (Touring, Elite)
- Drive: Front-wheel drive (standard), all-wheel drive (available).
- Honda Sensing Suite: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure intervention, forward emergency braking.
- Price Range: $31,450 (LX FWD) to $48,020 (Elite AWD).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 8 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed or 9-speed automatic |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $31,450 |
| Safety Features | Rear Seat Reminder | Honda Sensing Suite |
Why Consider the Honda Pilot?
The Pilot is a practical choice with advanced safety features and a spacious interior, making it ideal for families prioritizing safety and comfort.
5. Hyundai Santa Fe XL
The Hyundai Santa Fe XL is a well-equipped three-row SUV that offers great value and a long warranty.
Key Features of the Hyundai Santa Fe XL:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers.
- Engine: 3.5-liter gasoline V6.
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic.
- Drive: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
- Price Range: $30,850 (SE FWD) to $41,300 (Limited Ultimate AWD).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Hyundai Santa Fe XL |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $30,850 |
| Warranty | 3-year/36,000 miles | 10-year/100,000 miles |
Why Consider the Hyundai Santa Fe XL?
The Santa Fe XL provides a compelling combination of features, value, and Hyundai’s outstanding warranty, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
6. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a versatile three-row SUV that offers a choice of engines and a near-luxury experience at a reasonable price.
Key Features of the Kia Sorento:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers (third row is a bit tight).
- Engines:
- 2.4-liter four-cylinder with six-speed automatic
- 3.3-liter V6 with eight-speed automatic
- Drive: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
- Price Range: $25,990 to $44,690 (plus options).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Kia Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 (third row tight) |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.4L I4, 3.3L V6 |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $25,990 |
| Warranty | 3-year/36,000 miles | 10-year/100,000 miles |
Why Consider the Kia Sorento?
The Sorento offers a blend of value, features, and Kia’s impressive warranty, making it an attractive option for those seeking a well-rounded SUV.
7. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is known for its elegant design, sophisticated interior, and fun-to-drive character.
Key Features of the Mazda CX-9:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers.
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (250 hp, 310 lb-ft torque).
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic.
- Drive: Front-wheel drive (standard), all-wheel drive (optional).
- G-Vectoring Control: Torque-vectoring system for smoother handling.
- Price Range: $32,280 (Sport FWD) to $45,365 (Signature AWD).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.5L Turbo I4 |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $32,280 |
| Handling | Standard | G-Vectoring Control |
Why Consider the Mazda CX-9?
The CX-9 is a great choice for those who value driving dynamics and a premium interior, offering a more engaging experience than many competitors.
8. Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder has evolved from a rugged SUV to a comfortable three-row crossover, offering practicality and value.
Key Features of the Nissan Pathfinder:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers.
- Engine: 3.5-liter direct-injected gasoline V6.
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT).
- Drive: Front-wheel drive (standard), all-wheel drive (optional).
- Price Range: $31,430 (S FWD) to $44,460 (Platinum 4×4).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Nissan Pathfinder |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | CVT |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $31,430 |
Why Consider the Nissan Pathfinder?
The Pathfinder offers a comfortable ride and a straightforward driving experience, with the CVT providing decent fuel efficiency.
9. Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is the largest Subaru vehicle, offering standard all-wheel drive and a range of practical features.
Key Features of the Subaru Ascent:
- Seating: Seven or eight passengers (depending on configuration).
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer four-cylinder.
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT).
- Drive: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
- Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs.
- EyeSight Driver-Assist Technology: Standard on all trim levels.
- Price Range: $31,995 to $44,695 (Touring).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | 7 or 8 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.4L Turbo Boxer I4 |
| Drive | FWD/AWD | Standard AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $31,995 |
Why Consider the Subaru Ascent?
The Ascent is a great choice for those needing all-wheel drive capability and ample towing capacity, with Subaru’s reputation for reliability and safety.
10. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a versatile and reliable three-row crossover, available with a hybrid option for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Key Features of the Toyota Highlander:
- Seating: Up to eight passengers.
- Engines:
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder (gasoline only)
- 3.5-liter V6 (gasoline only)
- 3.5-liter V6 Hybrid (303 hp combined)
- Drive: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Hybrid Option: Available in LE to Limited Platinum trims.
- Price Range:
- Gasoline: $31,330 (LE FWD) to $46,860 (Limited Platinum AWD)
- Hybrid: $36,870 (Hybrid LE) to $48,480 (Hybrid Limited Platinum)
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 8 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.7L I4, 3.5L V6, 3.5L V6 Hybrid |
| Hybrid Option | Not Available | Available |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $31,330 |
Why Consider the Toyota Highlander?
The Highlander is a top pick for its reliability, diverse engine options, and available hybrid powertrain, offering excellent fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
11. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is the largest VW crossover, providing ample space and a comfortable ride for families.
Key Features of the Volkswagen Atlas:
- Seating: Up to seven passengers.
- Engines:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- 3.6-liter V6
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic.
- Drive: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (4Motion).
- Warranty: 6 years/72,000 miles bumper-to-bumper (transferable).
- Price Range: $30,750 (S 2.0T FWD) to $48,395 (SEL Premium V6 4Motion).
Comparison with GMC Acadia:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Volkswagen Atlas |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 2.0L Turbo I4, 3.6L V6 |
| Warranty | 3-year/36,000 miles | 6-year/72,000 miles |
| Starting Price | Around $29,000 | $30,750 |
Why Consider the Volkswagen Atlas?
The Atlas is noted for its spacious interior and strong warranty, making it a practical and secure choice for families.
12. Detailed Feature Comparison
To further assist in your decision, here’s a detailed comparison of key features across these comparable vehicles:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Chevy Traverse | Dodge Durango | Honda Pilot | Hyundai Santa Fe XL | Kia Sorento | Mazda CX-9 | Nissan Pathfinder | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander | VW Atlas |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 8 | Up to 7 | Up to 8 | Up to 7 | Up to 7 | Up to 7 | Up to 7 | 7 or 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 7 |
| Base Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 3.6L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L I4 | 2.5L Turbo I4 | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L Turbo I4 | 2.7L I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 |
| Starting Price | ~$29,000 | $31,125 | $29,995 | $31,450 | $30,850 | $25,990 | $32,280 | $31,430 | $31,995 | $31,330 | $30,750 |
| AWD Available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Standard | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 21/26 MPG | 18/27 MPG | 19/26 MPG | 20/27 MPG | 18/25 MPG | 22/29 MPG | 22/28 MPG | 20/27 MPG | 21/27 MPG | 21/29 MPG | 22/26 MPG |
| Warranty | 3/36,000 | 3/36,000 | 3/36,000 | 3/36,000 | 5/60,000 | 5/60,000 | 3/36,000 | 3/36,000 | 3/36,000 | 3/36,000 | 4/50,000 |
*Note: Fuel economy and warranty information can vary.
13. User Intent Analysis
When searching for vehicles comparable to the GMC Acadia, users typically have one or more of the following intentions:
- Find Alternatives: Discover other SUVs in the same class as the Acadia.
- Compare Features: Evaluate the specifications, pros, and cons of similar vehicles.
- Check Pricing: Understand the cost differences between various models.
- Assess Reliability: Learn about the long-term dependability of each vehicle.
- Identify Best Fit: Determine which SUV best meets their specific needs and preferences.
14. Addressing User Challenges
Many customers face challenges when comparing vehicles:
- Objective Comparisons: Difficulty finding unbiased comparisons.
- Detailed Information: Lack of comprehensive and reliable data.
- Information Overload: Confusion due to excessive information.
- Visual Aids: Desire for clear and intuitive comparisons.
- Real-World Reviews: Need for reviews and experiences from other owners.
COMPARE.EDU.VN provides solutions by offering detailed, objective comparisons, clear pros and cons, feature comparisons, user reviews, and intuitive visual aids to simplify the decision-making process.
15. COMPARE.EDU.VN: Your Comparison Partner
COMPARE.EDU.VN offers in-depth comparisons, outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each option. By comparing features, specs, prices, and user reviews, COMPARE.EDU.VN helps you identify the best choice for your needs.
16. FAQs About GMC Acadia and its Competitors
Q1: What SUVs are similar to the GMC Acadia?
The GMC Acadia has several comparable SUVs, including the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer. These vehicles offer similar size, seating capacity, and features.
Q2: Which is better, GMC Acadia or Chevy Traverse?
The Chevy Traverse offers more passenger and cargo space than the GMC Acadia. However, the Acadia might offer a more luxurious interior, depending on the trim level.
Q3: Does the Honda Pilot have more cargo space than the GMC Acadia?
Yes, the Honda Pilot generally offers more cargo space than the GMC Acadia, especially with the third row folded down.
Q4: What are the reliability ratings for the Toyota Highlander compared to the GMC Acadia?
The Toyota Highlander typically has higher reliability ratings compared to the GMC Acadia, according to sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Q5: Which SUV offers better fuel economy, the GMC Acadia or the Nissan Pathfinder?
The Nissan Pathfinder offers slightly better fuel economy than the GMC Acadia, primarily due to its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Q6: Is the Subaru Ascent a good alternative to the GMC Acadia for off-road capabilities?
Yes, the Subaru Ascent is a good alternative, offering standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-road adventures.
Q7: What are the standout safety features in the Honda Pilot compared to the GMC Acadia?
The Honda Pilot comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, offering more comprehensive safety tech compared to the base GMC Acadia.
Q8: How does the warranty of the Hyundai Santa Fe XL compare to that of the GMC Acadia?
The Hyundai Santa Fe XL offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, significantly longer than the GMC Acadia’s 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Q9: Which SUV has a more luxurious interior, the GMC Acadia Denali or the Mazda CX-9 Signature?
The Mazda CX-9 Signature is often praised for its high-end interior design and materials, rivaling the GMC Acadia Denali in terms of luxury.
Q10: What is the towing capacity of the Subaru Ascent compared to the GMC Acadia?
The Subaru Ascent has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs, which is higher than the GMC Acadia’s maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs.
17. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right vehicle involves carefully evaluating your specific needs and preferences. The GMC Acadia is a solid choice, but exploring comparable options can lead you to an even better fit. COMPARE.EDU.VN provides the resources and comparisons needed to make an informed decision.
Ready to explore more comparisons and make the best choice? Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN today!
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