2023 highlander vs acadia: which suv reigns supreme in comfort and reliability?

When it comes to choosing a reliable and spacious family SUV, the Toyota Highlander and GMC Acadia stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer ample seating, advanced safety features, and impressive performance, making them ideal for families on the go. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Toyota Highlander vs Acadia to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Highlander offers a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides responsive acceleration and smooth shifting. The Acadia, on the other hand, features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the Acadia’s engine is less powerful, it offers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Highlander and Acadia offer comfortable and spacious interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Highlander provides 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats, which expands to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded down. The Acadia offers slightly less cargo space, with 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row and 41.7 cubic feet with the third row folded down. However, the Acadia’s second-row seats offer more legroom and headroom than the Highlander’s.

Safety Features

Both vehicles come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Highlander also offers a standard rear cross-traffic alert system, while the Acadia adds a surround-view camera system. Additionally, the Acadia has received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Highlander has received a four-star rating.

Technology and Connectivity

The Highlander and Acadia both offer user-friendly infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen display, while the Acadia has a 10.2-inch touchscreen. Both systems offer intuitive menu navigation and responsive controls. Additionally, the Acadia offers a premium Bose audio system with 10 speakers, while the Highlander has a nine-speaker JBL audio system.

Off-Road Capabilities

If off-road adventures are on your agenda, the Highlander offers two available all-wheel-drive systems: one with a torque-vectoring rear differential and one with a locking rear differential. These systems provide enhanced traction and stability on uneven terrain. The Acadia, on the other hand, offers an optional Terrain Mode system that adjusts the vehicle’s settings for improved performance on different surfaces, such as sand, mud, or snow.

Pricing and Value

The 2023 Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $37,845, while the 2023 GMC Acadia starts at $37,500. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and pricing. The Highlander offers a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features than the Acadia, while the Acadia offers more spacious second-row seating.

The Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Highlander vs Acadia depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, off-road capabilities, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice. If you value fuel economy, spacious second-row seating, and a premium audio system, the GMC Acadia is a solid option. Both vehicles offer a comfortable and reliable driving experience, making them ideal for families seeking a versatile and practical SUV.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The GMC Acadia has slightly better fuel economy than the Toyota Highlander, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more cargo space than the GMC Acadia, with 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row of seats compared to the Acadia’s 12.8 cubic feet.

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a more powerful engine than the GMC Acadia, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower compared to the Acadia’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 193 horsepower.