Comparing the 2025 GMC Acadia to the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse isn't easy. These popular three-row SUVs seem similar, so you have to look closely to see the differences. Our team at Kirksville Motor Company has compiled a thorough rundown of the GMC Acadia vs. the Chevrolet Traverse specs so you can thoroughly compare the two and find out which is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Exterior Design and Features
The GMC Acadia has a sleek, sculpted shape that stands out from other off-roading SUVs. The simplified grille and teardrop headlights are artistic, but if you prefer a more rugged look, the AT4 trim features skid plates, 18-inch dark machined aluminum wheels, and gloss black roof-mounted side rails.
The Chevrolet Traverse is a more traditional SUV with an imposing grille and bold, boxy shape. The Z71 is Chevy's answer to the AT4, including skid plates, 18-inch high-gloss black machined wheels, and all-terrain tires.
Both vehicles come in six colors, including shades of red, gray, black, and white. The Acadia's distinctive Crystal Metallic purple color sets it apart in the market, while the Traverse's bold Lakeshore Blue Metallic paint is a unique shade that you can't get on the Acadia.
Interior Comfort and Space
When you compare the Traverse's vs. the Acadia's sizes, their measurements are nearly identical. However, the GMC Acadia offers more passenger space with standard seating for eight, while the Chevrolet Traverse only seats seven.
Both have multiple cupholders and spacious storage bins in the center console. Their interior measurements are nearly identical, with just a fraction of an inch difference in their headroom and legroom.
Both vehicles offer around 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Fold the back row down for 56.6 cubic feet in the Traverse and 57.3 cubic feet in the Acadia. Behind the front row, you can get up to 97.5 cubic feet in the Acadia and a nearly identical 97.6 cubic feet in the Traverse.
The Acadia takes comfort to another level with features such as active noise cancellation to cut out engine sounds and a generous 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. You can even upgrade to a 16-speaker theater-style system. Heated seats are standard in both vehicles, but the Acadia offers leatherette upholstery, where the Traverse has cloth.
Performance and Engine Specifications
The Traverse's and the Acadia's performances are very similar, and they both carry over their engines from the 2024 models. Both SUVs have 2.5-liter turbo engines paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions. This setup delivers 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque and lets you to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on these SUVs, but all-wheel drive (AWD) is available. The Acadia and Traverse offer stability both on the road and off, though the off-road trims are better if you plan to take your SUV on outdoor adventures.
The Acadia AT4 includes a specially tuned suspension, extra ground clearance, and GMC's Active Torque Control system. The Traverse Z71 is similarly equipped with adjusted suspension damping, Terrain Mode, and hill-descent control.
Technology and Infotainment
The GMC Acadia includes an 11-inch digital gauge cluster and a 15-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Google integration and voice controls. The Chevrolet Traverse matches the Acadia with its 11-inch digital gauge cluster. However, it offers a larger 17.7-inch touch-screen infotainment system with standard Google-based software.
Both SUVs have wireless phone charging, in-car Wi-Fi, and both front and rear USB ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard.
Safety Features and Ratings
Both the Acadia and the Traverse have five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Features you'll find on both SUVs include:
- Automatic braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Back-up camera
- Rear parking sensors
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Pedestrian detection
The Acadia offers some additional features that aren't standard on the Traverse, including traction control, stability control, and adaptive cruise control. The Acadia also comes standard with a high-definition surround-vision system, which is only available in upper trims of the Traverse.
The Traverse has brake assist, which isn't available on the Acadia.
Fuel Efficiency and Pricing
There's no significant difference in fuel economy. With FWD, the Traverse gets 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. With AWD, efficiency drops to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The Acadia offers the same efficiency ratings, depending on your choice of FWD or AWD. While neither is the most eco-friendly SUV on the market, they're head-to-head in this category.
If you're considering the Traverse's vs. the Acadia's prices, the Traverse is more affordable. With four trims to choose from, you can customize your features to find the right fit for your budget and lifestyle. Options include:
- LT: Starting at $40,700
- Z71: Starting at $47,800
- High Country: Starting at $53,800
- RS: Starting at $54,100
The GMC Acadia is better equipped in several areas, so it's not surprising that this SUV comes with a higher price tag. There are only three trims to choose from:
- Elevation: Starting at $43,00
- AT4: Starting at $51,400
- Denali: Starting at $54,100
Which Is the Better SUV? Acadia or Traverse?
Which is better, the Traverse or the Acadia? It's impossible to make a one-size-fits-all call with such similar SUVs. If you're on a budget, the Traverse has a more affordable entry-level trim. The seven-person seating also gives you second-row captain's chairs in the Traverse, which are more comfortable for many passengers. If you want all the bells and whistles, the Acadia has more perks, especially in infotainment. Come try both at our Kirksville Motor Company dealership and find out which ride is right for you.