2023 GMC Terrain vs 2023 GMC Acadia

The 2023 GMC Terrain and the 2023 GMC Acadia are both smart picks for a family vehicle. While both models offer rugged capability, premium comfort features, and modern conveniences, they’re suited to different needs. To help you find the right match for your needs, here’s a guide to their differences.

Power and performance

The GMC Terrain comes equipped with a 1.5-liter Turbo inline-four engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, all while earning up to 29 mpg on the highway.[1] On top of that, this power plant enables the Terrain to tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped — that’s enough to tow a small boat or teardrop trailer.

For more power, consider the GMC Acadia. This mid-size model offers two powertrain options — a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine and a 3.6-liter V6 engine. The standard 2.0-liter mill provides 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while earning 29 mpg on the highway.[2] The available 3.6-liter dynamo churns out 310 horsepower, 271 lb-ft of torque, and earns up to 27 mpg. [3] And in terms of capability, this engine enables the Acadia to tow up to 4,000 pounds.

While the Acadia is a larger model than the Terrain, both of these premium SUVs offer a versatile interior and plenty of space for your passengers. Inside the Terrain, you’ll find seating for up to five passengers, along with 29.6 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats. Fold down the second-row seating for a maximum of 63.3 cubic feet of cargo room.

On the other hand, the Acadia boasts three rows of seating and the ability to accommodate up to seven passengers. Behind the third-row seats, it has 12.8 cubic feet of cargo room, putting it on par with a mid-size sedan. If you need more room for family essentials like a stroller, luggage, or camping equipment, just flatten the third-row seats for 41.7 cubic feet of storage space. Folding down the entire rear seating area will open up 79 cubic feet of cargo space. 

Both models provide 39.7 inches of second-row legroom, so even teens and adults can comfortably ride in the rear seating area. 

Aside from spaciousness, the Acadia and Terrain share many of the same premium interior features. Both offer comforts like an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, along with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and heated second-row seats. However, the larger and more luxurious Acadia boasts tri-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and active noise cancellation for a more serene drive.

When it comes to high-tech amenities, both the Acadia and the Terrain deliver big. Both come standard with an 8-inch GMC Infotainment System with wireless smartphone connectivity and available GPS navigation. Both models also come equipped with a wealth of standard safety innovations, including everyday essentials like a Rear View Camera, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. However, the Acadia offers a few additional amenities, including Rear Park Assist and Hitch Guidance with Hitch View, to help you make the most of its 4,000-pound towing capacity.

When it comes to cost, the Acadia features a lower price tag, befitting its smaller size. The entry-level SLE trim starts at $29,900, while the mid-range SLT goes for $33,900. The off-road-ready AT4 comes with a price tag of $36,000, and the range-topping Denali comes with an MSRP of $38,600.[4]

With a starting price of $36,800, the base-trim Acadia SLE is priced comparably to the Terrain AT4. The more luxurious SLT starts at $41,100, while the rugged AT4 bears an MSRP of $43,400. And for the ultimate in luxury, consider the Denali trim, which starts at $48,600.[4]

Need more help deciding? At Jim Causley Buick GMC in Clinton Township, Michigan, our friendly sales team will assist you in finding a vehicle that matches your needs and budget. Contact us today to schedule a test drive, or drop by our dealership to see these SUVs in person.