GMC Acadia vs. Kia Telluride

Everybody loves options. Will you take the highway or the scenic route? Listen to a podcast or your favorite song? The Acadia provides performance options in the form of two engines: a 2.0L turbocharged configuration and an optional 3.6L V6 option. The Telluride only comes with one engine across all trim levels.

On top of providing twice as many engine options, the Acadia also powers ahead with more horsepower. When properly equipped, the Acadia can generate up to 310 horsepower. The Telluride, on the other hand, tops off at just 291 horsepower.

You’ll also find you have more choices with how your GMC Acadia performs thanks to the standard Traction Select system. With its five unique drive modes, you can easily toggle among options to find the one that best matches your mood for that day.

You’ll find a similar feature with the Kia Telluride. Like with the Acadia, this system includes a Sport and Normal mode, but it only offers four driving modes compared to five.

Additionally, only on the Acadia will you have access to a Trailer/Tow mode, which can enhance towing-specific capabilities and make it easier to get your trailer to your campsite.

When you’re out with your friends, the last thing you want is to make an unscheduled stop at the gas station. When you drive the Kia Telluride, you may find these interruptions are a common occurrence due to its EPA-estimated 20 city/26 highway MPG rating.

While the allure of driving an estimated 488 miles without the need to stop sounds impressive, it lacks in comparison to the GMC Acadia.

This SUV achieves an EPA-estimated 22 city/29 highway MPG rating. It also comes with a larger, 19.4-gallon fuel tank, making it possible to travel up to an estimated 563 miles on a single tank of gas.

Does size really matter? Sure, driving a large SUV is great for road trips and nights out with your friends, but how does it affect your ability to park?

The Kia Telluride measures 196.9 inches in length and has a width of 78.3 inches. The Acadia, on the other hand, is only 193.4 inches long and 64.5 inches wide. With its more compact frame, when you drive the Acadia you’ll likely notice it’s easier to squeeze into tight parking spaces—something that will come in handy when locating a spot at a crowded trailhead or if you head into the city.

Each model comes standard with a safety suite that uses cameras and sensors to monitor your surroundings. These features can provide alerts when potential hazards are detected, and they may provide gentle support if needed to avoid a collision.

Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking, found standard with both models, can help avoid a forward-facing collision and even detect pedestrians. When you’re on the highway, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Spot can help keep your vehicle centered in your lane and let you know when it’s safe to change lanes.

While there are many similarities among safety features between the Acadia and the Telluride, there is one feature you’ll only find when you drive the GMC: Teen Driver.

This safety feature is a great way to help boost the confidence of your new driver. The purpose is to help build smart driving habits by limiting speed and volume. It can also automatically enable certain features, like Buckle to Drive, to ensure your teen always follows the best safety practices.

You can also generate an in-vehicle report card to monitor your new driver’s progress and provide coaching as needed.