Apr 23, 2025

When choosing between the 2024 GMC Terrain and the 2025 GMC Acadia, both vehicles offer excellent features, but each caters to different needs. The Terrain is perfect for those seeking a compact, efficient SUV, while the Acadia offers more space and power, making it a better fit for larger families or those who need additional cargo room. In this comparison, we’ll break down the key differences, highlighting the 2024 GMC Acadia Elevation and the 2025 GMC Acadia Denali to help you make the best choice.

2024 GMC Acadia Elevation: A Bold Mid-Size SUV

The 2024 GMC Acadia Elevation is designed for those who need a vehicle that balances performance with style. With seating for up to seven people, the Acadia Elevation provides ample space for passengers and cargo. It’s an ideal choice for families who want an SUV that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

  • Performance: The 2024 Acadia Elevation is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower. This engine delivers a good balance of power and efficiency, making the Acadia suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
  • Interior Space: Offering three rows of seating, the Acadia Elevation provides flexibility for passengers and cargo. The second and third rows can be folded down to maximize storage capacity when needed.
  • Technology: The Acadia Elevation comes with a standard 8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. It also includes key safety features like automatic emergency braking and forward collision alert.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The GMC Acadia MPG is quite competitive in its class, offering an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, making it an efficient choice for families.

2025 GMC Acadia Denali: The Luxury Option

The 2025 GMC Acadia Denali takes luxury and performance to the next level. With premium materials, a more powerful engine, and advanced features, the Denali trim is perfect for drivers who want the best of both worlds: a capable SUV with all the high-end amenities.

  • Performance: The 2025 Acadia Denali features a 3.6L V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. This engine provides an extra boost of power, perfect for towing or those who need a more robust engine for various driving conditions.
  • Interior Comfort: The Acadia Denali offers leather seating, premium trim, and a larger 8-inch digital display. Its spacious interior includes heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a more refined overall look and feel.
  • Technology: The 2025 GMC Acadia Denali is equipped with an advanced 8-inch infotainment system, navigation, a premium audio system, and numerous driver-assistance features such as lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The 2025 Acadia Denali offers slightly lower fuel efficiency due to its larger engine, with an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. However, the added power makes it an excellent choice for those who need more towing capacity or a more powerful engine.

GMC Terrain: Compact and Efficient

The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that offers great versatility and efficiency. It’s designed for drivers who want a smaller, more manageable vehicle that still delivers impressive features and comfort. While it’s not as spacious or powerful as the Acadia, the Terrain is ideal for individuals or smaller families who don’t need a full-size SUV.

  • Performance: The GMC Terrain comes with a 1.5L turbocharged engine that provides 170 horsepower. This smaller engine ensures better fuel economy, making it perfect for those who prioritize efficiency.
  • Interior Space: The Terrain seats five people comfortably and offers a generous amount of cargo space for its size. The rear seats can be folded down to increase storage capacity, providing flexibility for transporting larger items.
  • Technology: The Terrain features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. It also includes essential safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning.
  • Fuel Efficiency: One of the main selling points of the Terrain is its fuel efficiency. The GMC Terrain offers an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.

GMC Terrain vs. Acadia: Key Differences

  • Size and Seating:
    The Terrain is more compact, seating up to five passengers, while the Acadia offers three rows of seating and accommodates up to seven passengers. If you need more room for your family or cargo, the Acadia is the better option.
  • Performance:
    The Terrain’s 1.5L engine is efficient, but the Acadia offers more powerful engine options, including the 2.0L turbocharged engine in the Elevation and the 3.6L V6 in the Denali. If towing or performance is important, the Acadia’s additional power will make a significant difference.
  • Fuel Efficiency:
    The Terrain outshines the Acadia in terms of fuel economy, offering up to 30 mpg on the highway, compared to the Acadia’s 27 mpg. If maximizing fuel efficiency is a priority, the Terrain is a better fit.
  • Interior Features:
    Both SUVs offer modern tech and safety features, but the Acadia Denali has more luxury options such as leather seats and a premium audio system. The Acadia Elevation also offers more comfort and space than the Terrain.

Which GMC SUV is Right for You?

  • Choose the GMC Terrain if you:
    • Need a smaller, more fuel-efficient SUV.
    • Prefer a compact SUV with enough cargo space for everyday use.
    • Want a vehicle that’s easy to maneuver in city environments.
  • Choose the GMC Acadia if you:
    • Need more space for passengers and cargo.
    • Want a more powerful engine and higher towing capacity.
    • Prefer a luxury experience with advanced features and higher-end materials.

Both the GMC Terrain and GMC Acadia are excellent SUVs, but the right choice depends on your specific needs. The Terrain is perfect for those seeking a compact, efficient, and practical vehicle, while the Acadia offers more space, power, and luxury. No matter which model you choose, both vehicles represent the quality and performance you expect from GMC. Visit Williamson Buick GMC in Miami, FL, to test drive both models and find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle.