Comparing the GMC Acadia and GMC Terrain

2024 blue gray GMC Acadia parked on gravel campgrounds
Gray 2024 GMC terrain parked on gravel road under trees

GMC Acadia VS Terrain

The GMC Acadia and Terrain are two highly sought-after models that offer impressive performance, plenty of cargo space, and a suite of technology features. The two models share many similarities, the main difference being size and engine performance. If you’re in the Oklahoma City area and shopping for your next vehicle, stop by our GMC Buick dealership to learn more about the GMC Acadia and Terrain.

Acadia Inventory
2024 Acadia
Terrain Inventory
2024 Terrain

 

Price & Trim Options: Acadia Vs. Terrain

The GMC Acadia and Terrain both offer the same selection of available trims at varying prices. The highest trim option for both the Acadia and the Terrain is the Denali which is outfitted with a 1.5L Turbocharged engine, Bose Premium Audio System, and the top-of-the-line GMC Pro Safety Plus technology. Below are the available trims for the GMC Acadia and GMC Terrain:

baby blue AT4 Acadia and blue Denali Acadia parked on rocky shore

GMC Acadia

Acadia SLE – $38,195 MSRP

Acadia SLT – $42,495 MSRP

Acadia AT4 – $44,795 MSRP

Acadia Denali – $49,500 MSRP

Red at4, white, and other GMC terrain trim levels all parked on sandy beach

GMC Terrain

Terrain SLE – $30,095 MSRP

Terrain SLT – $34,095 MSRP

Terrain AT4 – $36,890 MSRP

Terrain Denali – $39,995 MSRP

 

rear view of the AT4 Acadia interior with all back seats down
rear view of the GMC Terrain beige interior with all back seats down

Dimensions & Interior: Acadia Vs. Terrain

The most apparent difference between the GMC Acadia and Terrain is size. The Acadia is classified as a mid-size SUV capable of holding up to seven passengers with third-row seating, while the Terrain is a compact SUV with the ability to hold five passengers. The Acadia features a taller build standing 66.7 in. while the Terrain is slightly shorter at 65.4 in. Additionally, the Acadia offers significantly more cargo space with up to 79 cu.-ft of space with second-row seats folded down compared to the Terrain’s 63.3 cu.-ft. For larger families needing additional seating and cargo space, the GMC Acadia might be the choice for you, while for those looking for a slightly smaller vehicle with smoother navigation, the GMC Terrain might be better suited for your lifestyle.

The Acadia and Terrain feature very similar interior designs and amenities, which include heated seats and steering wheels, an 8-in. infotainment system, and an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, just to name a few. Both also come standard with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Uniquely, the Acadia is equipped with a rear seat entertainment system with a DVD player to help keep those second and third-row passengers entertained.

 

close up on the chrome and black accented AT4 Acadia grill
2024 AT4 Terrain mudding in muddy terrain

Towing & Engine Performance: Acadia Vs. Terrain

Both the GMC Acadia and Terrain are built to output impressive performance. The Acadia is slightly better regarding raw power due to its size and larger engine options. The Acadia SLE and SLT are equipped with a 2. L turbo 4-cylinder engine capable of producing 228 horsepower and 3,500 lbs towing capacity, while the AT4 and Denali come standard with an impressive 3.6L V6 engine with 310 horsepower and up to 4,000 lbs towing capacity. The GMC Terrain comes standard with a 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine across all four trims, producing 175 horsepower and only 1,500 lbs towing capacity. Where the Terrain lacks in power, it makes up in its fuel economy with a 24/29 MPG (City/HWY) output. The Acadia is not too far behind the Terrain with an output of 22/29 MGP (City/HWY). If you’re looking for a powerful car with plenty of towing capacity then the Acadia might be best for you while if you’re more concerned with fuel economy and maneuverability, then the GMC Terrain might be better suited.

 

Elevation Premium black interior cockpit view of the 2024 Acadia
standard black interior cockpit view of the navigation in GMC Terrain

Technology and Safety:  Acadia Vs. Terrain

The GMC Acadia and Terrain share nearly the same technology and safety features. The biggest difference is that the Acadia offers hitch guidance with a hitch view, while the Terrain doesn’t. Some of the safety features for both vehicles include:

  • Lane keep assist
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Forward collision alert
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Passenger sensing system

If you’re looking for the largest suite of safety features, consider the Denali trim on the Acadia and Terrain as it includes additional safety features such as side blind zone alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist.

 

If you’re still deciding between the GMC Acadia and Terrain, stop by our Buick GMC dealership in Oklahoma City for an in-person test drive of both models. Our expert team is ready to help you find the perfect car that fits your lifestyle!