SUV Showdown: Chevy Equinox vs GMC Acadia

The Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia are two popular SUV models with distinct features and qualities which appeals to different types of drivers. In-depth comparison is crucial to determine which one suits your needs and preferences better.

We will explore the key differences between the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia, including their performance, fuel efficiency, interior space, technology features, and safety ratings.

By the end, you will have a clear understanding of these vehicles, helping you to make an informed decision on which one is the right choice for you.

Here’s a comparison table between the Chevy Equinox and the GMC Acadia:

Feature	Chevy Equinox	GMC Acadia
Price Range	Starting at $23,800	Starting at $29,800
Body Style	Compact SUV	Midsize SUV
Seating Capacity	5	5-7 (depending on trim)
Engine Options	1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder, 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder	2.5L 4-cylinder, 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder, 3.6L V6
Horsepower	170 – 252 HP	193 – 310 HP
Transmission	6-speed automatic, 9-speed automatic	9-speed automatic
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)	Standard	Standard
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)	Available	Available
Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined)	Up to 26/31/28 MPG (FWD, 1.5L)	Up to 21/27/23 MPG (FWD, 2.5L), Up to 19/27/22 MPG (AWD, 3.6L)
Towing Capacity	Up to 1,500 lbs	Up to 4,000 lbs
Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)	29.9 cu ft	12.8 cu ft (3rd-row up) – 41.7 cu ft (3rd-row down)
Infotainment System	Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system	GMC Infotainment system
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto	Standard	Standard
Safety Features	Standard Chevy Safety Assist suite	GMC Pro Safety Plus (standard) and GMC Pro Safety Plus II (available)
Third-Row Seating	Not available	Available (in certain trims)
Dimensions (Length/Width/Height)	183.1 in / 72.6 in / 65.4 in	193.6 in / 75.4 in / 66.7 in
Curb Weight	3,274 – 3,645 lbs (approx.)	3,800 – 4,300 lbs (approx.)

Please note that these specifications can vary depending on the trim level and options chosen, so it’s essential to check the specific details for the model you’re interested in.

Contents

Design And Exterior Features

The Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia showcase distinct design elements and exterior features. Both vehicles offer sleek profiles, bold front grilles, and stylish LED headlights, providing a visually appealing and modern aesthetic.

Additionally, the Equinox and Acadia come with various options for exterior customization, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicles to suit their preferences.

When it comes to the design and exterior features, the Chevy Equinox and the GMC Acadia are two stunning SUVs that are sure to turn heads on the road. Both vehicles boast stylish and visually appealing designs, but they do have some key differences.

Let’s take a closer look at the design and exterior features of the Chevy Equinox and the GMC Acadia.

Visual Appeal And Style Comparison

The Chevy Equinox offers a sleek and modern design that exudes sophistication. Its clean lines and bold grille give it a refined and sporty look.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia features a more rugged and muscular appearance. Its robust stance and distinctive front fascia give it a commanding presence on the road.
Both vehicles come in a range of vibrant colors, allowing you to choose the one that matches your personal style.

Size And Dimensions Comparison

The Chevy Equinox is a compact SUV with a length of around 183 inches and a width of about 73 inches. It strikes a perfect balance between agility and interior space.
In contrast, the GMC Acadia falls into the midsize SUV category, measuring approximately 197 inches in length and 75 inches in width. This larger size allows for generous seating and cargo capacity.

Exterior Features Comparison

Lights: The Chevy Equinox is equipped with sleek LED daytime running lights and available LED headlights that provide excellent visibility. The GMC Acadia, on the other hand, boasts C-shaped signature lighting and available LED headlights with unique light signatures.
Grille: The Equinox showcases a stylish and distinctive front grille design that adds an element of elegance. The Acadia, with its bold and striking grille, gives off a more imposing vibe.
Wheels: Both vehicles offer a range of wheel options that enhance the overall appearance. The Equinox features stylish alloy wheels in various sizes, while the Acadia offers larger and more rugged wheel choices.

The design and exterior features of the Chevy Equinox and the GMC Acadia are both visually appealing and captivating. While the Equinox boasts a sleek and modern design, the Acadia exudes a more rugged and muscular appearance.

Whether you prefer a compact or midsize SUV, both options offer an array of exterior features that enhance their style and functionality on the road.

Interior And Comfort

The interior and comfort of the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia are designed to provide a luxurious and enjoyable driving experience. With spacious seating, high-quality materials, and advanced technology features, both vehicles prioritize comfort and convenience for passengers.

Let’s take a closer look:

Cabin Space Comparison (Legroom, Headroom, Cargo Space)

Chevy Equinox: The Equinox provides a well-designed cabin with generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. It offers 103.5 cubic feet of passenger volume and 29.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. With the rear seats folded, the cargo space expands to an impressive 63.9 cubic feet.
GMC Acadia: The Acadia boasts a spacious interior with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. It offers 143.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, providing ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. The cargo space behind the third row is 12.8 cubic feet, which expands to 41.7 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded. Folding both the second and third rows enhances the cargo capacity to a remarkable 79 cubic feet.

Seating Capacity And Materials Comparison

Chevy Equinox: This compact SUV has a seating capacity of up to five people, making it an ideal choice for smaller families or individuals who prioritize cargo space. The seats are well-cushioned and covered in premium cloth upholstery, with the option to upgrade to leather. Overall, the Equinox’s interior materials exude a sense of refinement and durability.
GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers seating for up to seven people, thanks to its available third-row seating configuration. It comes standard with premium cloth upholstery, while higher trims offer leather-appointed seating. The materials used throughout the interior are of high quality, providing a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Comfort And Convenience Features Comparison (Infotainment System, Hvac Controls, Etc.)

Chevy Equinox: Inside the Equinox, you’ll find an intuitive infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The HVAC controls are user-friendly, allowing you to easily adjust the temperature and airflow to your liking. Other notable comfort features include a available heated seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a spacious center console for storage.
GMC Acadia: The Acadia comes equipped with an advanced infotainment system featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The HVAC controls are conveniently located and simple to use. In terms of comfort, the Acadia offers available heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a touch of luxury.

Performance And Powertrain

Both the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia offer impressive performance and powertrain options. From responsive engine choices to advanced transmission systems, these SUVs are designed to deliver a smooth and exhilarating driving experience.

Whether you’re looking for efficiency or towing capability, both vehicles provide a range of options to suit your needs.

Engine Options And Specifications Comparison

Chevy Equinox: The Equinox comes with two engine options. The base trim is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The higher trims offer a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
GMC Acadia: The GMC Acadia offers three engine choices. The base and mid-level trims feature a 2.5-liter inline-four engine, producing 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, GMC offers a 3.6-liter V6 engine as an optional upgrade. This V6 engine generates 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque.

Power And Torque Comparison

Chevy Equinox: With its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Equinox offers higher power output compared to the GMC Acadia’s base engine. This makes the Equinox a preferable choice for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.
GMC Acadia: While the base engine of the GMC Acadia offers decent power for day-to-day driving, the optional V6 engine provides a significant boost in performance. The V6 engine gives the Acadia an advantage over the Equinox in terms of raw power and torque.

Fuel Efficiency And Mpg Comparison

Chevy Equinox: Thanks to its smaller engine options and efficient design, the Equinox achieves commendable fuel efficiency. The base engine provides an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine still maintains respectable fuel efficiency with an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
GMC Acadia: Despite its larger size and more powerful engine options, the GMC Acadia manages to offer competitive fuel efficiency. The base engine delivers an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. However, the V6 engine, while providing greater power, does sacrifice some fuel efficiency, with an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two SUVs.

Safety And Technology

Compare the safety features and technology of the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia to make an informed decision. Discover which SUV offers the best combination of advanced features and reliable performance for a safe driving experience.

The Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia are both popular choices for buyers in the market for a reliable and stylish SUV. One key aspect that buyers consider when comparing these two vehicles is the safety and technology features they offer.

Let’s take a closer look at how the Equinox and Acadia stack up against each other in terms of advanced safety features, infotainment and technology, as well as connectivity options and compatibility.

Advanced Safety Features Comparison

Both the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia come equipped with advanced safety features to ensure a secure driving experience. These features include:

Forward Collision Alert: Notifies the driver of potential front-end collisions and provides visual and audible warnings.
Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane without signaling.
Lane Keep Assist: Helps the driver stay within the intended lane by providing gentle steering wheel corrections.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Monitors the rear of the vehicle for approaching cross traffic when reversing.
Automatic Emergency Braking: Engages the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a potential collision.

Infotainment And Technology Features Comparison

In terms of infotainment and technology features, both the Equinox and Acadia offer a wide range of options to enhance convenience and entertainment. These features include:

Touchscreen Display: A user-friendly touchscreen interface allows easy access to audio, navigation, and other vehicle settings.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration: Seamlessly connects your smartphone to the vehicle to access apps, music, and more.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Enables hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming.
USB Ports: Conveniently charge devices and connect external devices for playback.
Satellite Radio: Enjoy a variety of music, news, and entertainment channels without the need for traditional radio.

Connectivity Options And Compatibility Comparison

When it comes to connectivity options and compatibility, both the Equinox and Acadia have you covered. These features include:

Smartphone Integration: Easily connect your smartphone to the vehicle’s infotainment system for seamless integration and access to apps.
Wi-Fi Hotspot: Stay connected wherever you go with an available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot that can support multiple devices.
Navigation System: Get turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates to help you reach your destination with ease.
Voice Command: Use your voice to control various functions, including making phone calls, changing radio stations, and more.
Wireless Charging: Keep your compatible devices charged without the hassle of cables.

Both the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia offer impressive safety and technology features. The Equinox provides advanced safety features like Forward Collision Alert and Lane Keep Assist, while the Acadia offers a comprehensive infotainment system with smartphone integration and Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Driving Experience And Handling

The Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia offer impressive driving experiences and excellent handling capabilities. These vehicles deliver smooth rides and precise controls, making them ideal for those seeking a thrilling and enjoyable drive. Compare the two to find the perfect match for your driving needs.

Let’s explore how these two vehicles compare in terms of ride quality, steering and handling, and off-road performance:

Ride Quality Comparison

Equinox: The Equinox offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. Whether you’re driving on city streets or highways, you’ll experience minimal road vibrations.

The cabin is well-insulated, keeping outside noise at bay and providing a quiet environment for passengers to enjoy.

Acadia: The Acadia also delivers a comfortable ride, with its suspension system effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road.

The larger size of the Acadia adds to its stability, enhancing the overall ride quality.

Steering And Handling Comparison

Equinox: The Equinox boasts precise steering that responds well to driver inputs, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or parking lots.

With its nimble handling, the Equinox feels agile and stable on the road, providing confidence to the driver.

Acadia: The Acadia exhibits excellent steering response, offering a controlled and engaging driving experience.

Despite its larger size, the Acadia handles corners with confidence and remains stable at higher speeds.

Off-Road Capabilities Comparison

Equinox: While the Equinox is primarily designed for on-road adventures, it still offers decent off-road capabilities. Its optional all-wheel drive system enhances traction on various terrains, allowing for mild off-road excursions.

The Equinox’s ground clearance and sturdy build help it tackle unpaved roads and rugged paths with relative ease.

Acadia: The Acadia, with its optional all-wheel drive system, is more capable off-road compared to the Equinox. It offers sufficient ground clearance and additional features like hill descent control, enabling it to handle moderate off-road challenges confidently.

Pricing And Value

Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Acadia are both popular choices in the SUV market. When comparing these two vehicles, one important factor to consider is pricing and value.

Let’s examine the base price comparison, optional equipment and packages comparison, as well as the cost of ownership and resale value comparison for both the Equinox and Acadia.

Base Price Comparison

The Chevy Equinox starts at a competitive base price of $23,800, making it an affordable option for buyers on a budget.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia has a slightly higher starting price of $30,995, offering a more premium feel right from the start.
It’s important to note that pricing may vary depending on trim level, add-ons, and additional features.

Optional Equipment And Packages Comparison

Both vehicles offer various optional equipment and packages that cater to different preferences and needs.
The Equinox offers packages such as the Confidence & Convenience Package, which includes features like rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and remote start.
The Acadia, on the other hand, offers packages like the Denali Ultimate Package, which includes features like a dual skyscape sunroof, trailering equipment, and adaptive cruise control.

Cost Of Ownership And Resale Value Comparison

When considering the cost of ownership, the Equinox shines with its impressive fuel efficiency, saving you money in the long run.
Additionally, Chevy vehicles are known for their reliable performance and low maintenance costs, providing further savings over time.
In terms of resale value, both the Equinox and Acadia have strong standing in the market. However, it’s worth mentioning that the Equinox tends to hold its value slightly better due to its wider target audience and higher demand.

Ultimately, the choice between these two vehicles depends on your specific needs and budget.

Customer Reviews And Ratings

Get the inside scoop on customer reviews and ratings for the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia. Find out which SUV comes out on top in terms of performance, features, and overall customer satisfaction.

Overview Of Customer Feedback On Chevy Equinox

Many customers have praised the Chevy Equinox for its comfortable seating, spacious interior, and smooth ride.
The Equinox has received high ratings for its fuel efficiency, making it an attractive choice for those concerned about saving on gas.
Customers appreciate the Equinox’s user-friendly infotainment system, which includes features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Some owners have expressed satisfaction with the Equinox’s safety features, including its advanced driver assistance systems.
However, a few customers have reported concerns about the Equinox’s engine performance, noting that it can feel underpowered at times.

Overview Of Customer Feedback On Gmc Acadia

The GMC Acadia has garnered positive reviews from customers who value its spacious and versatile cabin, capable of accommodating larger families with ease.
Customers appreciate the Acadia’s smooth handling and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long drives or daily commutes.
The Acadia’s modern and intuitive infotainment system with user-friendly controls has been commended by owners.
Many customers have mentioned the Acadia’s ample cargo space as a significant advantage, perfect for hauling a variety of items.
However, a few customers have reported concerns about the Acadia’s fuel efficiency, with some feeling that it could be improved.

Comparison Of Ratings And Reviews From Reputable Sources

The Chevy Equinox has generally received favorable ratings from reputable sources, with an average score of 4 out of 5 stars.
Reviewers highlight the Equinox’s comfortable ride, stylish design, and a range of available features as key selling points.
The GMC Acadia, on the other hand, has also received positive ratings from reputable sources, with an average score of 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Reviewers praise the Acadia’s spacious interior, refined handling, and an abundance of advanced safety features.
Both vehicles have been recognized for their reliability and durability, with customers expressing satisfaction with their overall ownership experience.

Both the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia have received positive feedback from customers, each offering unique features and advantages. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and specific needs.

Conclusion

After comparing the Chevy Equinox and GMC Acadia, it is evident that both vehicles offer their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The Equinox proves to be a practical choice for those seeking excellent fuel efficiency and a compact yet spacious design.

On the other hand, the Acadia excels in terms of performance, luxury, and a larger seating capacity. While the decision ultimately rests upon personal preferences and needs, it is crucial to consider factors such as budget, desired features, and overall driving experience.

By thoroughly researching and test driving both options, potential buyers can make an informed decision that aligns with their lifestyle. Regardless of whether you choose the Chevy Equinox or GMC Acadia, both vehicles showcase the quality and innovation that these brands have to offer.

With their respective strengths and unique attributes, these SUVs are sure to provide a reliable and enjoyable driving experience for years to come.