Enclave vs Acadia
Choosing between Buick and GMC often comes down to a specific pair of products. In the three-row suv class, that pair is the Enclave and the Acadia. Where they differ, they differ gently, which makes the few meaningful gaps worth a closer look.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Tie
- Fuel Economy & Range Tie
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Price Acadia wins
- Engine & Performance7.6
- Fuel Economy & Range4.8
- Space & Practicality6.0
- Off-road & Towing5.3
- Engine & Performance7.6
- Fuel Economy & Range4.8
- Space & Practicality6.0
- Off-road & Towing5.3
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in | 120.9 in |
Engine & Performance
Too close to call
There’s little to choose between them when it comes to engine & performance. Don’t let engine & performance decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Fuel Economy & Range
Too close to call
The fuel economy & range section is even. Any gaps here are within the range you’d never notice. So fuel economy & range is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Side by side, the space & practicality figures for the Enclave and the Acadia barely differ. The space & practicality verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
In the off-road & towing category, the Enclave and the Acadia land in almost the same place. On off-road & towing alone, you can’t go far wrong with either.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the Enclave and the Acadia differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.5L turbo I4 | 2.5L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 328 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 23 cu ft | 23 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 97.5 cu ft |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 5,000 lb | 5,000 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | N/A (not specified) | 15 in |
| Driver-assist suite | Buick Driver Confidence | GMC Pro Safety |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in | 120.9 in |
Price
| Spec | Enclave | Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $45,100 Priciest in class | $43,000 (winner) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Price & Value
Price is almost a tie, with the Acadia launching $2,100 below the Enclave. For a mixed result like this, the Acadia and its $2,100 saving is the default, unless the Enclave’s strengths are exactly what you need.
Based on US launch pricing as of launch. Deals and regional pricing can change the picture.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Acadia if…
- you’d rather keep $2,100 in your pocket
- you’re loyal to GMC and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Enclave or the Acadia?
There’s no single right answer. The Enclave leads on the things a spec sheet can’t capture and the Acadia on price.
Which costs less, the Enclave or the Acadia?
The Acadia is the cheaper option, launching at $2,100 less than the Enclave (launch prices as of launch).
Executive Summary
The Enclave from Buick and the Acadia from GMC go after the same buyer. Here’s how I see them.
I’d match them like this: the things a spec sheet can’t capture to the Enclave, price to the Acadia.
My pick: honestly, it’s a split decision, so let the things a spec sheet can’t capture versus price settle it for you.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.