Feud for Top Full Sized SUV Finally Answered – Chevrolet Traverse vs GMC Acadia
Chevrolet Traverse
Engine: 3.6L
Horsepower: 281
Fuel Economy: 17 City / 24 Hwy
MSRP: Starting at $30,995
Inside the 2015 Chevrolet Traverse:
The 2015 Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size SUV crossover with seating for up to 8 passengers. First introduced in 2009, the Traverse remains relatively unchanged performance-wise, however did receive a restyle in 2013. The Traverse is one of the largest SUVs in terms of overall seating and cargo room with over 116 ft. The engine is Direct Injected 3.6L Engine with 281 horsepower. An upgrade option is available that delivers a slightly increased horsepower output at 288 total, but relatively the same driving experience. There are four trim options to choose from between the entry-level LS to the 1LT, 2LT and LTZ. The Traverse is a very heavy vehicle at about 2.5 tons, yet retains a respectable fuel efficiency with 17 City / 24 Hwy MPG.
The interior feels like a luxury vehicle with many premium materials and quality stitching throughout the cabin. Unlike most vehicles with a third row primarily reserved for only small children, the Traverse’s third row is extremely spacious for 3 averaged size adults. Included in all Traverse models are a rearview backup camera, Bluetooth phone integration, and 6.5in touchscreen infotainment center. Premium features include 10 speakers Bose audio system, rear entertainment package, and premium Navigation system.
GMC Acadia
Engine: 3.6L
Horsepower: 281
Fuel Economy: 17 City / 24 Hwy
MSRP: Starting at $33,975
Inside the 2015 GMC Acadia:
The 2015 GMC Acadia is another premium full-sized SUV crossover from General Motors with seating for up to 8 passengers. The Acadia was first introduced in 2007 and was the first crossover SUV from GM. The cabin configuration is similar to that of the Traverse with over 116 cubic feet of cargo room and folds flat front-rear seats. Under the hood, the Acadia will also look similar as GM’s technology shines through with the same 3.6L V6 engine with 281 horsepower. The Acadia is only available with this standard engine option. Buyers have the choice between four trim options with the base SLE-1 along with SLE-2, SLT-1, and SLT 2. The GMC Acadia is a big-body vehicle that handles like a truck. It has an EPA fuel rating of 17 City / 24 Hwy MPG.
The interior is jam-packed with comfort features that make the Acadia extremely flexible to the consumer’s needs. When passengers need to enter the third row, the SmartSlide seats easily fold forward for easy access. Don’t need the 2nd or 3rd row of seating? The seats fold flat in seconds and make available that best-in-class cargo room rating. Included in all trim options is the rear backup camera and high definition color touch screen. Combine those features with the available Intellilink with voice-activated controls along with navigation and the Acadia is a powerful command center. Imagine trying to input a new location into your GPS while driving with the back two rows full with eager, screaming children. You’ll never have to, as your voice will now control the infotainment center.
Our Pick for Winner:
Base Model: GMC Acadia
Ultimately these two large crossover SUVs are very similar in size and the technology they offer. During our test, this boiled down to two different style options at the Chevrolet Traverse offers premium luxury, where the Acadia offers functionality. With seating for up to eight, you need a vehicle that is as adaptive to new situations as you are. The Acadia also seems to have more storage, which is always a plus.
Upgrades: Chevrolet Traverse
For this comparison, we looked at a wide range of options and found just how much vehicle you received for certain price points. No pun intended, but there is a lot of technology crossover between these two crossovers. However, you get more options out of the Traverse with the premium sound package rear seat entertainment system mounted in the headrests.
Overall Winner:
GMC Acadia
Aesthetically the Acadia is more appealing on the exterior with the wrap-around rear window and LED head and tail lights. The interior is also smoother on the eye with a more appealing center console and infotainment center. The Traverse offers slightly more options than the Acadia, but it’s not enough to earn it the win. The safety features and technology on the Acadia help pull away and secure the win during this matchup.
