GMC Acadia vs. Honda Pilot: Does the Acadia Comes Out on Top?

When shopping for a midsize SUV, two strong contenders often come up: the 2024 Honda Pilot and the 2024 GMC Acadia. Both vehicles offer a mix of practicality, technology, and performance, but the GMC Acadia edges ahead with its refined styling, superior technology, and impressive towing capability. We’ll break down key differences between both midsize SUVs and see why the Acadia is the better choice.

Performance & Capability: The Acadia Delivers More Power

The 2024 Honda Pilot comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While this engine offers decent power, it doesn’t stand out in the segment. On the other hand, the 2024 GMC Acadia boasts a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque—significantly more than the Pilot. The added torque in the Acadia translates to better acceleration and towing power, making it an excellent choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle long road trips and heavy loads with ease. As for towing, both SUVs offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. The Acadia however offers a more efficient and engaging driving experience thanks to its turbocharged powertrain.

Interior & Technology: Acadia Brings Luxury and Innovation

Both SUVs provide spacious interiors, but the Acadia’s cabin feels more premium thanks to high-end materials and a more modern design. The Acadia offers an available 15-inch infotainment display, a fully digital gauge cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In contrast, the Honda Pilot sticks to a more traditional layout with a 9-inch infotainment screen that feels outdated compared to the Acadia’s cutting-edge tech. When it comes to seating, the Acadia offers available massaging front seats, something the Pilot lacks. Additionally, its third row is spacious and comfortable, ensuring passengers enjoy long rides without feeling cramped.

Safety & Driver Assistance: Acadia Takes It Further

Both SUVs come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the Acadia offers more advanced driver-assist technologies that come standard. GMC’s Super Cruise—a hands-free driving system available on select trims—gives the Acadia a significant advantage over the Pilot.

Honda’s Honda Sensing suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking, but it lacks the semi-autonomous driving features available in the Acadia.

Price Comparison: Acadia Offers More Value

Price is always an important factor when choosing an SUV, and while both models are competitive, the GMC Acadia offers more premium features for the price.

• 2024 Honda Pilot Pricing:
  • Base Sport Trim: $37,090 (plus destination fee)
  • Elite Trim (Fully Loaded): $52,480 (plus destination fee)
• 2024 GMC Acadia Pricing:
  • Base Elevation Trim: $39,995 (plus destination fee)
  • Denali (Fully Loaded): $54,695 (plus destination fee)

While the Honda Pilot has a slightly lower starting price, the GMC Acadia justifies its cost by offering more power, better technology, and a more luxurious feel. The Denali trim, while more expensive than the Pilot Elite, comes with features like a high-end Bose sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and massaging seats, making it well worth the extra investment.

Final Verdict: The GMC Acadia Wins

While the Honda Pilot is a solid midsize SUV, it simply can’t match the Acadia’s power, technology, and premium feel. The Acadia offers more horsepower, better tech, a more luxurious interior, and cutting-edge driver assistance features. All this makes it the superior choice for those seeking both comfort and capability. Consumers wanting an SUV that delivers performance, innovation, and style will find that the GMC Acadia is the clear winner.

Come Test Drive a Brand-New GMC at Southern Buick GMC Greenbrier!

Look no further if you’re in the market for a GMC Acadia. Here at Southern Buick GMC Greenbrier, we can help you find the best vehicle for your needs. At Southern Buick, we’re more than happy to help our customers find what they are looking for. Check out our new vehicle inventory or our quality pre-owned vehicles. We can offer suggestions like auto financing to help make paying for a vehicle easier.

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Photo Credit: GMC/Honda