Today, the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia are among the best-selling models that are often compared. Both vehicles feature spacious interiors, luxury amenities, and consistent performance, which make them suitable for family use or even for people who require additional space.
The Buick Enclave is poised for comfort and luxury in upscale family journeys, with the GMC Acadia providing a sportier configuration and versatility. Select as per your sense of elegance or functionality. So, how do you choose between the two? In this article, we will compare Buick Enclave vs. GMC Acadia on the basis of design, performance, features, etc., to assist you in deciding which SUV is best for your needs.
Design and Style
Both Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia possess unique designs that appeal to different tastes:
The Buick Enclave is characterized by its refined, luxurious look. It has a sophisticated exterior with smooth lines, a strong grille, and refined details that render it luxurious in appearance. The Enclave has a luxurious interior with high-quality materials, cozy seating, and a smooth ride inside, rendering it ideal for those who care about comfort and sophistication.
Conversely, the GMC Acadia is sportier and tougher looking. Externally, its road presence is muscular and bold with a powerful appearance. Its interior is practical but solidly built with an emphasis on usability. It does not have as luxurious of an environment as the Enclave, but the Acadia is more adventurous and provides a sense for those who desire a rugged and versatile SUV.
Performance and Handling
When the Buick Enclave vs. GMC Acadia specs are compared, performance is an important consideration. The Buick Enclave features a 3.6-liter V6 engine that has 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but the all-wheel drive can be optional for improved traction. The Enclave drives comfortably and smoothly, making it ideal for long drives or daily use. It's not so much about sport but about comfort, so it won't be ideal for people who need a sporty car.
The GMC Acadia also provides additional options in regards to engines, such as a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (193 hp), a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (228 hp), and a 3.6-liter V6 (310 hp). This will provide the buyer with the luxury of choosing how much power they need. The Acadia is also more sensitive in its drive, with bolder handling and sportier demeanor. It's perfect for a person who needs both performance and functionality.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia are both three-row SUVs but have different interior spaces and comfort:
The Buick Enclave is bigger and has more passenger and cargo rooms. It can hold comfortably seven or eight people, depending on the configuration. The third row is adult-friendly, and the interior also features noise insulation to guarantee a quiet ride. The Enclave, whose maximum cargo area is up to 97.6 cubic feet, is ideal for families or individuals who need additional room for luggage, sports equipment, or groceries.
The GMC Acadia is also a bit smaller, accommodating up to seven passengers. The third row is tolerable for kids but will be cramped for adults on extended drives. The Acadia provides up to 79 cubic feet of cargo capacity, less than the Enclave but enough for all but the most stringent uses. The Acadia interior is more functional, with an emphasis on durability and usability.
Technology and Features
Both the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia are technologically well-stocked, but they appeal to different buyers.
The Buick Enclave is more luxurious and convenient. It has an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot as a standard option. Trim levels include additional features such as a premium Bose audio system, wireless charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Enclave also has advanced features such as forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
The GMC Acadia prioritizes capability and utility. It even has an 8-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hotspot. Acadia, however, has more rugged equipment, including available off-road suspension and off-road tires. It has available forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and rearview camera for safety features.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a major factor for most consumers, particularly for large SUVs:
The Buick Enclave carries an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway rating when it comes to front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive lowers these ratings by a few points to 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
The GMC Acadia also gets improved fuel efficiency, particularly from its smaller engines. The 2.5-liter base engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter turbo engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The V6 engine, as in the Enclave, gets 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Pricing and Value
Price is another important consideration factor in the GMC Acadia vs. Buick Enclave comparison:
The Buick Enclave begins at approximately $42,000 for the base model and goes up to around $55,000 for the upper trims. It's slightly more expensive, with luxury features and a smooth driving experience.
The GMC Acadia is also cheaper, priced at approximately $35,000 as a base model and having a top price of approximately $50,000 for the higher trims. It is good value for someone who needs an efficient and utilitarian SUV but does not need to spend top dollar.
Buick Enclave vs. GMC Acadia Reviews
Buick Enclave vs. GMC Acadia reviews show that both models have their own advantages and disadvantages:
The Buick Enclave is appreciated for its luxurious and roomy interior, comfortable ride, and technological features. But others criticize it for its inability to match the sporty performance of some of its rivals and for costing more.
The GMC Acadia is liked for its adaptability, economy, and affordability. But it's faulted for its smaller third row and less luxurious interior compared to the Enclave.
Which Three-Row SUV Is Best for You?
Whether to get the Buick Enclave or GMC Acadia simply depends on what you're most passionate about:
Get the Buick Enclave if you desire a sophisticated, roomy, and comfortable SUV with an emphasis on sophistication and cutting-edge features. It's perfect for families or for anyone who desires a luxury driving experience.
Select the GMC Acadia if you desire a capable, practical, and value-laden SUV with a sportier stance and improved gas mileage. It's ideal for anyone looking for a strong and durable car for everyday use or light off-road driving.
What to Do Next
If you are still unsure, follow these steps:
Visit Manufacturer Sites: Go through the Buick and GMC official websites for detailed information, prices, and personalization.
Read Expert Reviews: Sites like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and Car and Driver offer extensive comparisons and details.
Join Online Communities: You may ask the current Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia owners for advice.
Trim Level Comparison: You can compare the trim levels of these vehicles to see what features and options are most suitable for your budget and your personal preference.
Conclusion
Both the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave provide great three-row SUV cars for different needs and tastes. Checking their design, performance, features, and price can help you know which among them is appropriate for your lifestyle.
Regardless of whether you like luxury and convenience or budget-friendliness and flexibility, both the Buick Enclave vs. GMC Acadia have something for you. Try driving them both for a while and decide what works for you.
