When I started shopping for a new three-row SUV, I found myself stuck between two options that seemed pretty similar: the GMC Acadia and the Buick Enclave.
At first glance, they both look great, promise comfort, and are loaded with features.
But as I dug deeper, I realized there’s a bigger difference than I thought. One of these SUVs is better for tough terrains and towing, while the other is all about luxury and extra space.
Choosing the right one can be tricky.
That’s why I’ve broken down the key differences between the GMC Acadia and the Buick Enclave to help you decide which one’s the better fit for your family’s needs.
What Is the GMC Acadia?
The GMC Acadia is a rugged yet family-friendly SUV. It offers a solid build with a sporty look, and while it’s comfortable for daily driving, it’s also capable of handling some light off-roading.
If you need an SUV that’s versatile enough for city streets and the occasional adventure, the Acadia is a great option.
With trims like the AT4 and Denali, it stands out for its off-road capabilities, especially in the AT4 model.
If you’re looking for a vehicle that can tow a decent load but doesn’t require the heavy-duty features of a full off-roading machine, the Acadia is worth considering.
The GMC Acadia is built for those who enjoy a balance between everyday comfort and outdoor adventure. It’s designed for the family that needs more than just a city commuter.
If you’re towing a small boat or heading off to the mountains for a weekend, the Acadia offers a combination of space, style, and utility that makes it stand out in its class.
What Is the Buick Enclave?
The Buick Enclave, on the other hand, is all about comfort and luxury. It’s a spacious three-row SUV designed for families who prioritize a smooth ride, premium features, and extra cargo space.
Unlike the more rugged Acadia, the Enclave offers a refined, upscale design. With more cargo room and higher-end finishes, the Enclave is great for long trips, daily commutes, and all the family road trips in between.
It’s perfect if you want a luxurious ride without sacrificing the space and convenience you need.
The Buick Enclave provides a more sophisticated, polished option for those who value luxury and a higher level of comfort.
It’s an ideal choice for anyone who spends long hours on the road and wants a smooth, quiet ride with the latest tech and comfort features.
GMC Acadia vs. Buick Enclave: Key Differences
The GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave offer different takes on the SUV experience, with each excelling in specific areas.
Understanding their features will help guide your decision, depending on if you prioritize rugged capability, luxury, or performance. So, that’s why I’ve created a direct comparison table for you:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Buick Enclave |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Rugged, sporty | Sleek, refined |
| Off-road Features | Moderate (AT4 trim) | None |
| Cargo Space | 79 cubic feet (with seats down) | 97.6 cubic feet (with seats down) |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Technology | Standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Price | Around $43,000 | Around $45,100 |
| Performance | 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder or 3.6L V6 (up to 310 hp) | 3.6L V6 (310 hp) |
The GMC Acadia is a great choice for those seeking versatility, off-road capability, and towing strength.
Meanwhile, the Buick Enclave excels in comfort, cargo space, and luxury features, making it ideal for those seeking a more refined driving experience.
1. Price: How Much Do They Cost?
- Price: GMC Acadia starts at $43,000; Buick Enclave starts at $45,100.
- Value for Money: GMC Acadia offers practicality and solid features; Buick Enclave provides more luxury and comfort.
- Customization & Flexibility: GMC Acadia offers more flexibility with upgrades; Buick Enclave comes with more luxury features as standard.
- Cargo Space & Comfort: The GMC Acadia is practical with good cargo space; the Buick Enclave offers more space and higher comfort, ideal for long trips.
In summary, if you need an affordable, flexible SUV, the GMC Acadia is a great choice. For more luxury and space, the Buick Enclave is worth the extra cost.
2. Cargo Space and Interior Comfort
The Buick Enclave offers impressive cargo space with 97.6 cubic feet when the seats are folded down. This makes it a great option for those needing extra room for family trips or large loads.
Passenger comfort is another highlight of the Enclave. It boasts ample legroom, plush seating, and premium materials throughout the cabin, making it perfect for those who value luxury and space.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia provides 79 cubic feet of cargo space, which is still roomy enough for daily use and occasional trips.
The Acadia focuses on practicality, offering a comfortable and functional ride.
It’s ideal for those who want a balance between comfort and utility, without the high-end luxuries of the Enclave.
3. Performance
The GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave are both strong contenders in the SUV market, each offering unique strengths in performance.
Understanding their key differences can help you decide which is better suited to your driving needs and lifestyle.
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Buick Enclave |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Starts at $43,000 | Starts at $45,100 |
| Cargo Space | 79 cubic feet | 97.6 cubic feet |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 4,000 lbs | Up to 1,500 lbs |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, 3.6L V6 | 3.6L V6 |
| Performance | Versatile, off-road capable | Smooth, on-road focused |
| Off-Road | Available in AT4 trim | None |
| Technology | Standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Larger screen, premium sound system |
| Ride Quality | Firmer ride, better for off-roading | Smoother, quieter, ideal for highways |
Ultimately, the Acadia excels in power and versatility, while the Enclave shines with comfort and luxury. Your choice will depend on if you want to prioritize performance or a refined, smooth driving experience.
4. Towing Capacity
The GMC Acadia is the clear winner in towing capacity, offering up to 4,000 lbs. This makes it ideal for families who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads regularly.
If towing is a key factor, the Acadia provides the muscle without sacrificing other features, perfect for camping or boating trips.
The Buick Enclave, however, has a more modest towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. It’s better suited for lighter loads, such as pulling a small camper or utility trailer.
While the Enclave can handle light towing, the Acadia is the better choice for those who tow frequently or need more power.
5. Off-Road Capabilities
The GMC Acadia (especially in the AT4 trim) is built for off-roading, with tougher axles, better tires, and higher ground clearance. It’s perfect for occasional wilderness trips.
The Buick Enclave, on the other hand, is focused on on-road comfort. It’s ideal for smooth highways and city driving but lacks off-road capabilities.
If off-roading is a priority, the Acadia is the better choice. For those who prefer comfort and easy highway driving, the Enclave is the way to go.
6. Technology and Features
Both the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
However, the Enclave stands out with a larger touchscreen and advanced infotainment features. It also offers a premium sound system, more USB ports, and upgraded navigation.
The Acadia offers the basics and is user-friendly, but lacks the advanced tech and convenience of the Enclave.
The Enclave’s additional features give it an edge for tech-savvy users.
7. Ride Quality and Comfort
The Buick Enclave offers a smoother, quieter ride, ideal for highway and city driving. Its suspension system is designed for comfort, providing a calmer ride.
The GMC Acadia has a firmer ride, which may feel rougher on long trips but offers better handling on off-road or uneven terrain, making it suitable for adventurous driving.
Conclusion
Both the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave are solid choices depending on your needs.
If you need a versatile SUV that can handle towing and some off-roading, the GMC Acadia is a better option.
But if you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV with more cargo space and luxury features for comfortable drives, the Buick Enclave is worth the extra investment.
At the end of the day, the decision comes down to how you’ll use the SUV and what features are most important to you.
The Acadia is rugged, practical, and capable of tackling tough terrains, while the Enclave is a more polished and refined vehicle, perfect for families who prioritize luxury and comfort.
