Even the GMC Acadia Beats the Toyota Highlander
Upon looking at a list of the best mid-sez 3-row SUVs ranked from best to worst, the GMC Acadia was ranked above the Toyota Highlander. This is another example of why you should consider other options before settling on the 2020 Toyota Highlander. Also, let’s check out why the 2020 GMC Acadia is considered to be better.
2020 GMC Acadia vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander
On the list of the best midsize SUVs ranked from best to worst provided by CarandDriver, the Kia Telluride was ranked as #1, which is no surprise. The GMC Acadia landed in 9th place, and the Toyota Highlander fell in 10th place. Also, the Dodge Journey came in last place.
However, the one surprise was that the Toyota Highlander ranked below the GMC Acadia when the Toyota Highlander feels like the more popular option. However, the 2020 GMC Acadia does start around $29k while the 2020 Toyota Highlander begins about $34k, saving families a little money for a luxurious three-row SUV.
GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander Performance
The GMC Acadia comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. But you can upgrade to the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or the 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310-hp for more power.
When properly equipped, the GMC Acadia can tow up to 5,000 lb and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mpg in 6.1 seconds. That’s pretty fast. Also, the Acadia gets 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which is about the same as the Highlander.
The Toyota Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. That might be why it starts at an extra $5k. Also, it can tow up to 5,000 lb and accelerates from 0 to 60 in 7.2 seconds. So, while being able to tow more than the Acadia, it is a little slower.
Both the GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander have optional all-wheel drive. Consider this option if you need to drive through snow and other slippery conditions. However, adding AWD to the Toyota Highlander will drive the price up more.
Toyota Highlander and GMC Acadia features
Don’t expect much room in the third row of a midsize SUV. However, the GMC Acadia offers 37.2 inches of legroom in the third row compared to 27.7 inches of legroom in the third row of the Toyota Highlander. So, if your kids are larger, the Acadia will provide more space. Also, the GMC Acadia is noted for having a spacious second row as well.
Both of these SUVs are loaded with tech and convenience features such as a tri-zone automatic climate control system. However, the GMC Acadia comes with a Wifi hotspot, keyless entry, remote start, and has an optional heads up display. But the Toyota Highlander has more standard safety features.
Also, the GMC Acadia is praised for having a better ride. The active noise cancellation keeps road noise out, and it has a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. The Toyota Highlander is also noted for having a smooth, quiet ride but is said to feel like a larger SUV.
