
The GMC lineup includes several spacious and versatile vehicles, so if you're shopping for a new SUV, you'll want to see our GMC Terrain vs. Acadia comparison to learn how these two models stack up in a head-to-head showdown. The Terrain small SUV and Acadia midsize SUV each come loaded with advanced and premium GMC features, but their powertrains and size differences typically lead SUV shoppers to choose one over the other.
Butler GMC of Charlton compares the GMC Acadia vs. Terrain size, specs, trims, and features so drivers and families can find their favorite SUV model within the new GMC lineup. See our detailed comparison below, then schedule a test drive of your preferred model.

GMC Acadia vs. Terrain Specs & Performance
Turbocharged performance powers the new GMC Acadia and Terrain SUVs. However, the 2024 editions of these versatile SUVs for sale feature different turbo engines. The compact Terrain SUV sports a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, developing 203 pound-feet of torque and 175 horsepower.
Its fuel-efficient four-cylinder turbo engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, enabling this small SUV to return up to an EPA-estimated 24/29 MPG (City/Highway)1 rating when equipped with standard front-wheel drive (FWD). Terrain AWD models aren't far behind in fuel efficiency and add enhanced all-weather and all-road grip and confidence.
The 2024 GMC Acadia midsize SUV for sale is an all-new design. Its new 2.5-liter turbo engine is engineered for both power and efficiency. Its estimated 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque make it a high-powered alternative to many other midsize SUVs on the market today. The EPA has yet to release MPG ratings for the 2024 Acadia as of this writing.
Regarding GMC Terrain vs. Acadia performance, the new 2024 Acadia is the far more powerful option. Its new 328-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo engine makes it the clear powerhouse compared to the 175-horsepower GMC Terrain. The Acadia also offers a higher towing capacity, at 5,000 pounds, compared to the Terrain SUV's 1,500-pound tow rating when these models are properly equipped.
The lighter and smaller Terrain provides more agile handling and responsiveness than its larger SUV sibling, the Acadia, but is built more for efficiency than acceleration.
GMC Acadia vs. Terrain Size Comparison
Regarding seating capacity and size, the GMC Terrain and Acadia differ greatly in dimensions. The Terrain is a small two-row SUV for sale boasting a roomy five-passenger interior. The new GMC Acadia sports standard three-row seating for up to seven occupants.
At 203.96 inches long, the three-row Acadia dwarfs the smaller Terrain, measuring 182.3 inches in length. Yet, thanks to its two-row interior instead of three, the smaller Terrain offers more standard cargo space behind its back row, as we'll cover shortly.
If you're seeking spacious second-row legroom, both of these GMC SUVs for sale provide your crew with ample space to stretch their legs. If a third row is a must, opt for the seven-passenger Acadia over the two-row Terrain.
| 2024 GMC Terrain SLE | 2024 GMC Acadia Elevation |
Engine | 1.5L Turbo I-4 | 2.5L Turbo I-4 |
Horsepower | 175 | 328 |
Torque | 203 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty/Hwy) | 24/291 | TBA |
Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs2 | 5,000 lbs2 |
Length | 182.3 in | 203.96 in |
Width Without Mirrors | 72.4 in | 79.56 in |
Height | 65.4 in | 70.97 in |
Standard Cargo Space | 29.6 cu ft | 23 cu ft |
Wheel Diameter | 17 in | 20 in |
GMC Acadia vs. Terrain Cargo Space Comparison
Open the tailgate of the new GMC Terrain SUV, and you'll find 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. Folding the back row uncovers a maximum cargo capacity of 63.3 cubic feet.
The larger three-row Acadia midsize SUV starts with less cargo room behind its seats due to its seven-passenger seat configuration. You'll get 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back row of the new 2024 Acadia.
However, fold the third row, and it's more of a fair comparison, with the Acadia providing substantially more cargo space behind its second row than the Terrain SUV's 29.6 cubic feet. Maximize your cargo-hauling capabilities in the Acadia by lowering the third and second rows, enabling you to transport up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo. That tops the Terrain model's 63.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity by a wide margin.
GMC Terrain vs. Acadia Features
The GMC Acadia vs. Terrain size plays into the differences in their designs and features beyond seating capacity and cargo space. The smaller Terrain SUV wears 18-inch alloy wheels in its base edition, graduating to 19-inch alloys in the range-topping Denali trim.
The larger Acadia three-row SUV starts with large, 20-inch wheels. It also gets a large, 15-inch Premium GMC Infotainment System touch-screen interface inside its spacious cabin. The Terrain comes standard with a 7-inch GMC Infotainment System, with an 8-inch touch screen available.
Comparing GMC Acadia vs. GMC Terrain Trims
Shop for a new GMC Terrain small SUV, and you can choose from the following trim levels:
- Terrain SLE
- Terrain SLT
- Terrain AT4
- Terrain Denali
The new GMC Acadia midsize SUV offers the following trims:
- Acadia Elevation
- Acadia AT4
- Acadia Denali
Now that you've uncovered the differences between the GMC Terrain vs. Acadia, which of these versatile GMC vehicles will you choose? Get started on your upgrade now when you contact us to finance your new GMC SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GMC Acadia bigger than the GMC Terrain?
The GMC Acadia is bigger than the GMC Terrain. The all-new 2024 Acadia is a midsize SUV for sale measuring 203.96 inches long. It's substantially larger than the 2024 GMC Terrain small SUV that stands 182.3 inches in length. Select from the two-row GMC Terrain for five-passenger seating or the three-row Acadia SUV for seating for up to seven occupants.
How does the GMC Terrain compare to the Acadia?
The GMC Terrain is a small SUV that's more affordable but less powerful than the larger GMC Acadia midsize SUV. The Terrain is a compact SUV featuring a five-passenger seating capacity, while the Acadia gets standard three-row seating for up to seven people. The Acadia gets standard 20-inch alloy wheels, while the Terrain wears smaller 17-inch wheels in its base trim.
Which has a smoother ride: the GMC Acadia or the GMC Terrain?
The GMC Acadia and GMC Terrain are both known to provide a smooth ride. The GMC Terrain SUV's standard 17-inch wheels or available 18-inch wheels paired with all-terrain tires both help ensure a smooth ride. The GMC Acadia and its larger standard 20-inch wheels add style but a little stiffer ride. However, the Acadia AT4 has smaller 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires.