If you didn’t already know, nearly every Chevrolet model has a GMC equivalent. What this means is that they usually share a platform, engines, features, and even design cues. While not everything is the same, they’re about as close to the same as vehicles from two different automakers can get. Some of those are the 2022 Chevy Traverse and the 2022 GMC Acadia. Although the two have so much in common, one far outsells the other. Why is the Chevy Traverse outselling its GMC equivalent, the GMC Acadia?

Chevy Traverse vs. GMC Acadia sales

According to GoodCarBadCar, the Chevy Traverse is outselling its GMC equivalent by a lot. More specifically, during the third quarter of 2022, Chevy dealers sold 25,389 Traverse models. Comparatively, the same vehicle but from GMC, the Acadia, sold just 14,406 units. Why is there such a massive difference in these sales numbers? As a whole, a significant reason why GMC models usually perform poorly compared to Chevy is brand popularity. Chevrolet is flat-out more popular than GMC.

However, the GMC Acadia isn’t necessarily failing regarding sales. Although its Chevy cousin is doing much better, it’s still selling well. For example, popular models like the Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Passport, and Mazda CX-9 all sold fewer units than the Acadia during Q3 2022. The Traverse, however, is closer to the top for midsize SUVs. It’s right near rivals like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and right behind the Subaru Outback.

What’s better about the 2022 Chevy Traverse?

There are a few reasons the 2022 Chevy Traverse stands out above the Acadia for many buyers. First and most important is the price. Starting with the base model, a Traverse LS costs $34,895. In addition, it’s very well-equipped for such an affordable SUV. It has triple-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Wi-Fi, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, rear parking sensors, and more. It’s very similarly equipped to the base model Acadia, which starts at $35,995.

Next, every version of the Traverse uses the same engine. Best of all, it’s a powerful option, a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Alternatively, the Acadia’s base engine pales in comparison. It’s a turbocharged four-cylinder with an output of just 228 horsepower, far fewer than its corporate cousin. For a V6 engine in the Acadia, buyers need the AT4 trim minimum. Unfortunately, that boosts the price to $42,595, far higher than the cheapest Traverse with a V6.

What’s wrong with the 2022 GMC Acadia?

For the most part, the GMC Acadia is a great overall SUV. It simply falls short of its Chevrolet equivalent model, so its sales numbers are far worse. However, like any model, it does have its shortcomings. For example, Edmunds says the Acadia cabin isn’t luxurious even with the highest trim level. That isn’t very pleasant, especially since the $47,795 fully-loaded model is a Denali, a name commonly synonymous with luxury.

Next, rival SUVs offer more cargo and third-row space. One vital detail necessary for every three-row SUV is space for third-row passengers. If only small children can sit comfortably, the model loses some of its desirability. For the Acadia, a cramped third row is a huge detriment. Usually, a tiny third row of seats means there’s plenty of room for cargo in the back. However, the publication also mentions a lack of cargo space, which is hugely disappointing for a midsize SUV.

Chevy Traverse outselling its GMC equivalent

In conclusion, the 2022 Chevy Traverse is outselling its GMC equivalent. For midsize three-row SUVs, the Traverse and Acadia are nearly identical vehicles. However, the Traverse is selling far better for a few reasons. We think a cheaper price and better base engine are significant factors, in addition to Chevy models being more popular than GMC all-around. In addition, the GMC Acadia suffers from a basic, unimpressive interior, a small third row, and a lack of cargo space.