GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Trailblazer

If you’re in the market for a new SUV, you’ve probably seen the GMC Acadia and Chevy Trailblazer by now. These two SUVs have earned a reputation for quality and performance and enjoy their earned status as top sellers in their segment. However, we know that all the features, packages, and options available can present a challenge to filter through as you try to compare them. That’s why we created this head-to-head breakdown, so you can make an informed decision on which SUV works best for you.

Exterior Style

GMC offers the Acadia in four trims: SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Each trim features subtle differences, yet all remain unmistakably Acadia. You see boldness from the front with signature grilles, from the classic chrome surround on the SLE and SLT trims to the blacked-out grille of the AT4, and the premium chrome mesh grille on the Denali.

The Acadia’s bulging fenders, chiseled side body, and wide stance give it an athletic posture that’s ready for any adventure. Low-profile roof rails and trim-exclusive wheels in various sizes and styles add to its capable aesthetic.

The Elevation special edition offers blacked-out treatments to the exterior, including the grille, roof rails, 20-inch aluminum painted gloss black wheels, and signature black badging. Opting for the Denali Ultimate Package, you get an upgraded powertrain with trim-exclusive towing, performance features, and premium exterior additions such as the dual-panel sunroof.

Chevrolet makes the Trailblazer in four trim levels: LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS. The Trailblazer’s soft curves and sleek lines speak to its nimble performance. Each trim features a unique grille, yet all trims deliver an aggressive stare with LED headlights angling back and away beneath the bulging hood. Alloy wheels in multiple styles highlight the versatility of this go-anywhere SUV.

The RS trim offers sporty styling cues that turn heads on the boulevard. If you prefer to lead the way on the trail, the ACTIV model comes with all the off-road equipment needed to make that happen. In addition, you have two-tone exterior color options to enhance your stylish appearance.

Powertrain

Under the hood of the Acadia, you’ll find one of two engines. In the SLE and SLT models, you get a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine with variable valve timing, spark ignition direct injection, and stop/start technology. GMC pairs this engine with its nine-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission. As a result, this powertrain produces 228 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque, and tows up to 3,300 pounds when properly equipped.

The AT4 and Denali trims use a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with variable valve timing and spark ignition direct injection. It also features auto start/stop and an active fuel management system for more efficient operations. Auto start/stop shuts down your engine when stopped at an idle. In addition, GMC’s active fuel management technology shuts down cylinders at cruising speeds when full power isn’t necessary. You also get a nine-speed automatic transmission paired with this engine. This powertrain puts out an impressive 310 horsepower, 271 pound-feet of torque, and can tow up to 4,000 pounds.

The SLE, SLT, and Denali trim come standard with a capable front-wheel-drive system. GMC’s off-road equipped AT4 trim comes only in all-wheel-drive (AWD). This AWD system continuously monitors your Acadia’s driving dynamics and distributes power to the wheels that can use it most. In addition, you have selectable drive modes to dial in your throttle, shift points, and steering to match the road conditions. You can add AWD to any Acadia trim if you prefer.

Chevy offers two engine options for the Trailblazer as well. You get Chevy’s ECOTEC 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a continuously variable transmission in the LS and LT trims. As a result, this powertrain puts out 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.

The ACTIV and RS trims come with the ECOTEC 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Chevy mates this engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission to deliver 155 horsepower, 174 pound-feet of torque, and a towing capacity of up to 1,000 pounds.

Every Trailblazer comes standard with a front-wheel-drive platform that delivers exceptional traction and control on wet or dry pavement. For even more control, you can add AWD to any trim level. You also have selectable drive modes for your Trailblazer, letting you tune your powertrain to suit the conditions.

Cutting-Edge Technology

Your Acadia’s in-vehicle tech runs through the 8-inch touch screen. In addition, apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth technology allow you to sync your cellphone or tablet with your infotainment system. Now you can make calls, stream your favorite music, access navigation information, and do even more hands-free with simple voice commands.

Other technology features include a six-inch color head-up display and Amazon Alexa Built-In. Now, you can take your favorite home assistant with you wherever you go. For example, you can shop online, ask Alexa for a restaurant recommendation, and even have Alexa start your car for you from inside your house.

Inside the Trailblazer, a standard 7-inch touch screen controls your infotainment system, or you can upgrade to an 8-inch interactive display screen. Your infotainment system features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Amazon Alexa Built-in. You also get SiriusXM satellite radio installed with a free trial subscription. An available wireless charging pad adds convenience.

Driver-Assist Systems

GMC offers Pro Safety Plus, a suite of driver-assist technologies designed to elevate your Clarksville commute. The suite includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, lane keep assist with lane departure alert, and rear cross-traffic alert. These systems use a combination of optical sensors and radar to scan around your Acadia and alert you to possible hazards.

You get the Chevy Safety Assist suite of driver-assist technology in your Trailblazer. Chevy’s suite includes the same systems that are found on the Acadia. In either vehicle, these systems have the capability to intervene with emergency brake support or steering correction to help you avoid a possible collision.

At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet Buick GMC, we understand that every SUV driver has unique needs. When you compare these two SUVs, you see capable versatility with the latest technology at your disposal. If you’d like to learn more about them or would enjoy a hands-on experience, we invite you to schedule a personal demonstration. One of our friendly, knowledgeable staff will show you the different features and let you take both SUVs for a test drive.

Image via Flickr by truckhardware

Tags: Chevy Trailblazer, Comparison, GMC Acadia
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