GMC Acadia Vs. Toyota Highlander Comparison

If you're shopping for a family-friendly three-row SUV and weighing your options, a GMC Acadia vs. Toyota Highlander comparison is in order. These two stalwarts of the midsize SUV segment are popular because they both offer spacious cabins, spirited performance, advanced safety, and excellent technology.

However, there are plenty more benefits to the GMC Acadia compared to the Toyota Highlander. Let's review how these SUVs stack up to help drivers like you determine the best option. The Nimnicht Buick GMC team is excited to show off the many ways the Acadia comes out ahead.

Toyota Highlander vs. GMC Acadia: Trims

The new GMC Acadia for sale is available in the following trims for the 2025 model year:

• Acadia Elevation
• Acadia AT4
• Acadia Denali

The Toyota Highlander is offered in these trim levels for 2025:

• Highlander LE
• Highlander XLE
• Highlander XSE
• Highlander Limited
• Highlander Platinum

Both of these vehicles offer well-equipped trims; however, the GMC Acadia lineup outshines the Toyota Highlander selection in a few areas.

For example, the Acadia Elevation trim comes standard with a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11-inch driver information center, whereas the Highlander LE trim features an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch multi-information display. You also get wireless smartphone charging, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel standard in the GMC Acadia, none of which are found in the base Toyota Highlander model.

GMC Acadia vs. Toyota Highlander: Performance

The 2025 GMC Acadia has a standard turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This unit earns up to an EPA-estimated 20/27/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).¹

The 2025 Toyota Highlander comes standard with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It delivers just 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. However, this Toyota SUV achieves a slightly better fuel rating, with up to an EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).²

Both SUV models are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offer front- and all-wheel drive.

Compare Toyota Highlander vs. GMC Acadia: Interior Dimensions

Next in our Toyota Highlander vs. GMC Acadia comparison, we look at the interiors of these SUVs. To start, both models feature roomy three-row interiors with seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations.

The Toyota Highlander boasts 84.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume with all rear seats folded. This figure is respectable, but it doesn't hold a candle to the GMC Acadia. The GMC SUV stuns with 97.5 cubic feet of total cargo space when the rear seats are folded. Even with all seats in place, the Acadia has 23 cubic feet of storage volume, whereas the Highlander has just 16 cubic feet.

To boot, the 2025 Acadia has larger passenger dimensions in every row. As an example, the front-row legroom of the GMC Acadia is 44.28 inches vs. 42 inches in the Toyota Highlander. For a spacious and accommodating three-row SUV, we recommend the Acadia.

Which Should You Choose: GMC Acadia or Toyota Highlander?

Now that we've covered key aspects of the GMC Acadia vs. Toyota Highlander, which model do you prefer? There certainly are some similarities, but also enough differences to pick a favorite.

If you want to benefit from a higher power output, more luxurious standard features, and a larger cabin, choose the 2025 GMC Acadia. This midsize SUV prevails against the Highlander in these categories – and more. Reach out to us for additional details.

Shop for a New GMC Acadia for Sale

See your local GMC dealer when you're ready to upgrade to the style, performance, comfort, and versatility of the new GMC Acadia SUV for sale. With competitive pricing and favorable finance and lease offers available at Nimnicht Buick GMC, now is a great time to trade up to this GMC sport-ute.

Do you want more information about your other GMC options? Peruse our inventory and check out our helpful resources, such as our comprehensive GMC Terrain vs. Ford Edge comparison.

Expert Opinion

One of the things I appreciate most about the Acadia is how well-equipped it is right from the start. Many SUVs require you to climb the trim ladder just to get to features like heated seats, a decent infotainment system, and wireless charging. Not here. The Acadia shows up with a modern layout and amenities that actually make your day-to-day driving experience better. The massive 15-inch touchscreen is a true game-changer, especially if you're someone who relies on maps. Compared to the Highlander, the Acadia is just a different experience: more intuitive, more comfortable, and frankly, more enjoyable from the moment you start the engine.

Jackie Lynch, General Manager

What Reddit Users Say About the GMC Acadia vs. Toyota Highlander

While we clearly think the GMC Acadia comes out on top over the Toyota Highlander, you don't just have to take our word for it. Reddit threads are another resource that many drivers turn to when searching for an ideal vehicle for their family. This platform is an excellent place for motorists, such as yourself, to gather, discuss real-world vehicle experiences, and help each other determine which automobile is worth investing in. As you browse these personal accounts, you'll see that many drivers prefer the Acadia.

For instance, one user says the Acadia is more comfortable for them and their family, outpacing the Highlander consistently in both space and quality. We invite you to check out these reviews and anecdotes from drivers all over before concluding your GMC Acadia vs. Toyota Highlander research. See them below.

hobbestigertx

"The Acadia is larger, more comfortable, and has better crash rating."

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UnfairCartographer88

"Interior was beautiful and well designed, upholstery seems very durable, and lots of cup holders -trunk space was impressive, loved the deep extra storage under the mat -overall, the layout of the seats and roominess felt great"

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RemingtonSnatch

"I do love the Acadia refresh. It's a nice looking ride. I like that they kept the truck-like profile."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the standard features of the GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander?

Standard features of the new GMC Acadia include 18-inch wheels, a 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and HD Surround Vision. By comparison, the Toyota Highlander has 18-inch wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a Backup Camera. Both models boast a turbocharged engine, but the Acadia has the more powerful ratings. Explore standard and available Acadia features at your local GMC dealer.

Which has more room: the Toyota Highlander or GMC Acadia?

The GMC Acadia offers more room than the Toyota Highlander. In terms of cargo space, the Acadia boasts 23 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Meanwhile, the Highlander only offers 16 and 84.3 cubic feet, respectively. The Acadia is also larger regarding passenger dimensions in all three rows.

What are the key differences between the GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander?

The key differences between the GMC Acadia vs. Toyota Highlander are performance and size. While both SUVs possess a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Acadia produces 328 horsepower vs. 265 horsepower in the Highlander. The 2025 GMC Acadia is also roomier when it comes to passenger and cargo volume, and it has more impressive standard features than the 2025 Toyota Highlander.

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¹EPA-estimated mpg for the 2.5L 4-cylinder with 8-speed automatic FWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov

²Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.