Safety showdown: gmc acadia vs subaru outback – who protects you better?
What To Know
- The GMC Acadia and the Subaru Outback have both earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Subaru Outback, with its standard 4-cylinder engine, offers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The GMC Acadia offers more power, towing capacity, and seating capacity, while the Subaru Outback provides better fuel efficiency and a higher reliability rating.
When it comes to exploring the great outdoors, the GMC Acadia and the Subaru Outback stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of ruggedness, versatility, and comfort, making them ideal for adventurers and families alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features and differences between these two automotive titans, helping you make an informed decision for your next wilderness adventure.
Performance and Capabilities
Engine Power: The GMC Acadia offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5L 4-cylinder, a 3.6L V6, and a 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder. The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, comes exclusively with a 2.5L 4-cylinder boxer engine. In terms of horsepower, the Acadia’s V6 and turbocharged 4-cylinder engines deliver more power than the Outback’s 4-cylinder engine.
Towing Capacity: The GMC Acadia boasts a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, while the Subaru Outback can tow up to 2,700 pounds. This difference is significant if you plan on towing heavy loads, such as boats or trailers.
Off-Road Performance: Both the Acadia and the Outback offer available all-wheel drive systems, providing excellent traction on slippery or uneven surfaces. However, the Acadia’s available off-road suspension and Hill Descent Control system give it an edge in more challenging off-road conditions.
Interior and Comfort
Seating Capacity: The GMC Acadia offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Subaru Outback can accommodate up to five passengers. The Acadia’s third row of seats provides additional flexibility for larger families or groups.
Cargo Space: With the rear seats folded down, the GMC Acadia provides 79 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Subaru Outback offers 75.7 cubic feet. Both vehicles offer ample space for gear, groceries, or adventure equipment.
Comfort and Features: The Acadia and Outback offer comfortable interiors with a range of amenities and technology features. Both vehicles come standard with heated front seats, while the Acadia offers available ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Outback, on the other hand, features a standard panoramic moonroof and a larger touchscreen display.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features: The GMC Acadia and the Subaru Outback have both earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Reliability: According to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, the Subaru Outback has consistently ranked higher than the GMC Acadia in terms of reliability. This suggests that the Outback may require fewer repairs and maintenance over time.
Fuel Efficiency
MPG Ratings: The GMC Acadia’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine option and drivetrain configuration. The most fuel-efficient Acadia model gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Outback, with its standard 4-cylinder engine, offers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
Starting Price: The GMC Acadia has a starting price of $35,195, while the Subaru Outback starts at $28,120. The Acadia’s higher starting price is due to its more powerful engine options and available third row of seats.
Value for Money: When considering value for money, it is important to weigh the features, capabilities, and reliability of each vehicle. The GMC Acadia offers more power, towing capacity, and seating capacity, while the Subaru Outback provides better fuel efficiency and a higher reliability rating. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and priorities.
The Verdict: Which Vehicle is Right for You?
The GMC Acadia and the Subaru Outback are both excellent choices for adventure-seekers. The Acadia offers more power, towing capacity, and seating capacity, making it ideal for families or those who need to tow heavy loads. The Outback, on the other hand, offers superior fuel efficiency and reliability, making it a great choice for those who prioritize these factors.
Ultimately, the best decision depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value power, versatility, and seating capacity, the GMC Acadia is the better choice. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, reliability, and a more compact size, the Subaru Outback is the way to go.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q1. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A1. The GMC Acadia has a higher towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, compared to the Subaru Outback‘s 2,700 pounds.
Q2. Which vehicle offers more seating capacity?
A2. The GMC Acadia offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Subaru Outback can accommodate up to five passengers.
Q3. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A3. The Subaru Outback has a slightly better fuel economy than the GMC Acadia, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, compared to the Acadia’s 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway (for the most fuel-efficient Acadia model).