Suv supremacy: gmc acadia denali vs toyota highlander, the final verdict

The world of midsize SUVs is a competitive one, with automakers vying for the attention of discerning consumers. Two of the most popular contenders in this segment are the GMC Acadia Denali and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and capability, but which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the GMC Acadia Denali and the Toyota Highlander, helping you make an informed decision that meets your specific needs.

Exterior Design

The GMC Acadia Denali exudes a bold and muscular presence with its chiseled lines and imposing grille. The Denali-exclusive 20-inch wheels and chrome accents add a touch of sophistication. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander presents a more understated and streamlined exterior. Its sleek curves and subtle details give it a more refined appearance.

Interior Comfort

Both the Acadia Denali and the Highlander offer spacious and well-appointed cabins. The Acadia Denali features premium leather seats with heated and ventilated front seats, providing exceptional comfort for long journeys. The Denali also boasts a panoramic sunroof that floods the interior with natural light. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers a more family-friendly interior with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. Its heated front seats and tri-zone climate control ensure a comfortable ride for everyone.

Technology and Features

The GMC Acadia Denali comes loaded with advanced technology features. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration. The Denali also features a Bose premium audio system, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad. The Toyota Highlander offers a similarly impressive suite of features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a JBL premium audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Safety Features

Both the GMC Acadia Denali and the Toyota Highlander have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Acadia Denali comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Highlander also offers a wide range of safety features, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane tracing assist.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The GMC Acadia Denali is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter V6 with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with 243 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The Highlander comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

In terms of fuel economy, the GMC Acadia Denali with all-wheel drive has an EPA-estimated rating of 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The Toyota Highlander with front-wheel drive has an EPA-estimated rating of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model has an EPA-estimated rating of 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The GMC Acadia Denali has a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, while the Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Acadia Denali has a maximum payload capacity of 1,623 pounds, while the Highlander has a maximum payload capacity of 1,750 pounds.

Pricing

The GMC Acadia Denali has a starting price of $47,200, while the Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,850. The Denali’s higher price reflects its more luxurious features and amenities.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

The GMC Acadia Denali and the Toyota Highlander are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Acadia Denali offers a more luxurious and feature-rich experience, while the Highlander provides better fuel economy and a more affordable price point.

If you’re looking for a spacious and well-equipped SUV with a bold exterior and advanced technology, the GMC Acadia Denali is a great choice. However, if you’re prioritizing fuel efficiency and value, the Toyota Highlander is the better option.

Key Points

The choice between the GMC Acadia Denali and the Toyota Highlander ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and capability, but they each have their own distinct strengths. By carefully considering the key differences outlined in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific requirements and delivers the best possible driving experience.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?

The GMC Acadia Denali has a more powerful engine than the Toyota Highlander, with 310 horsepower compared to 295 horsepower.

2. Which SUV has better fuel economy?

The Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy than the GMC Acadia Denali, with an EPA-estimated rating of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

3. Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?

The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity than the GMC Acadia Denali, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to 4,000 pounds.