2019 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Acura MDX
Overview | |
MSRP$44,300 | MSRP$29,000 |
Listings393 | Listings1270 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 |
2019 Acura MDX Reviews SummarySlowly but surely, Acura is picking itself up and dusting itself off after a decade of wayward product development and marketing decisions took Honda’s luxury division off-track. Through it all, though, the MDX midsize 3-row crossover SUV has propped the company up, selling in great enough quantities and at high enough profit margins to ensure Acura’s survival. Now in its sixth year since a complete redesign, is the 2019 MDX still worthy in a battle against newer competitors? | |
2019 GMC Acadia Reviews SummaryShoppers have many options when they want a family vehicle, but most look to the 3-row midsize SUV, rather than the minivan, as the de facto family hauler. But not all 3-row SUVs are created equal, and that’s a good thing because families have different needs. Old-school, full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe might be overkill for getting the kids to soccer practice, but they're ideal when it comes to towing a boat or camper trailer while on a road trip. On the other end of the spectrum, a compact SUV such as the Volkswagen Tiguan is far more practical for cities and has an optional third row. For many families, that third row won’t always be occupied, so it shouldn't detract from other areas of the vehicle, cut into cargo space, or break the bank. General Motors enjoys the luxury of multiple, somewhat overlapping brands and utilizes this overlap to offer two kinds of 3-row SUVs. The Chevrolet Traverse is one example; it feels like a stretched-out midsize SUV, almost like a downsized Tahoe. The 2019 GMC Acadia rides on the same platform as the Traverse but feels like a completely different vehicle. It has a shorter wheelbase and a more upscale cabin, resulting in a midsize SUV that feels less like a family hauler and more like something special and unique. But 3-row midsize SUVs compete in an extremely crowded segment against some of the most popular vehicles on the market, including the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, and Subaru Ascent, just to name a few. So how does the Acadia stack up when it comes to balancing 3-row seating capacity and overall usability? Read on to find out and learn which trim of the Acadia CarGurus recommends. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine3.5L 290 hp V6 | Engine2.5L 193 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm | Horsepower193 hp @ 6300 rpm |
MPG City20 | MPG City21 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway26 |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.5L 290 hp V6 | Engine Name2.5L 193 hp I4 |
Torque267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | Torque188 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm | Horsepower193 hp @ 6300 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City20 | MPG City21 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway26 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/Moonroof |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space15.0 cu ft | Cargo Space12.8 cu ft |
Curb Weight4032 lbs | Curb Weight3879 lbs |
Height67.4 in | Height66.0 in |
Length196.2 in | Length193.6 in |
Width77.7 in | Width75.4 in |
Wheelbase111.0 in | Wheelbase112.5 in |
Maximum Payload1336 lbs | Maximum Payload2122 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $44,300 | $29,000 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.0 out of 10Read full review | 8.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | ||
Summary | Slowly but surely, Acura is picking itself up and dusting itself off after a decade of wayward product development and marketing decisions took Honda’s luxury division off-track. Through it all, though, the MDX midsize 3-row crossover SUV has propped the company up, selling in great enough quantities and at high enough profit margins to ensure Acura’s survival. Now in its sixth year since a complete redesign, is the 2019 MDX still worthy in a battle against newer competitors? | Shoppers have many options when they want a family vehicle, but most look to the 3-row midsize SUV, rather than the minivan, as the de facto family hauler. But not all 3-row SUVs are created equal, and that’s a good thing because families have different needs. Old-school, full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe might be overkill for getting the kids to soccer practice, but they're ideal when it comes to towing a boat or camper trailer while on a road trip. On the other end of the spectrum, a compact SUV such as the Volkswagen Tiguan is far more practical for cities and has an optional third row. For many families, that third row won’t always be occupied, so it shouldn't detract from other areas of the vehicle, cut into cargo space, or break the bank. General Motors enjoys the luxury of multiple, somewhat overlapping brands and utilizes this overlap to offer two kinds of 3-row SUVs. The Chevrolet Traverse is one example; it feels like a stretched-out midsize SUV, almost like a downsized Tahoe. The 2019 GMC Acadia rides on the same platform as the Traverse but feels like a completely different vehicle. It has a shorter wheelbase and a more upscale cabin, resulting in a midsize SUV that feels less like a family hauler and more like something special and unique. But 3-row midsize SUVs compete in an extremely crowded segment against some of the most popular vehicles on the market, including the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, and Subaru Ascent, just to name a few. So how does the Acadia stack up when it comes to balancing 3-row seating capacity and overall usability? Read on to find out and learn which trim of the Acadia CarGurus recommends. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.5L 290 hp V6 | 2.5L 193 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm | 193 hp @ 6300 rpm |
MPG City | 20 | 21 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 26 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.5L 290 hp V6 | 2.5L 193 hp I4 |
Torque | 267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | 188 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm | 193 hp @ 6300 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | 21 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 26 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 15.0 cu ft | 12.8 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4032 lbs | 3879 lbs |
Height | 67.4 in | 66.0 in |
Length | 196.2 in | 193.6 in |
Width | 77.7 in | 75.4 in |
Wheelbase | 111.0 in | 112.5 in |
Maximum Payload | 1336 lbs | 2122 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | |
The 2019 Acura MDX has been a dominant force in the midsize, 3-row crossover segment for over a decade, offering continuous improvements and a new A-Spec Package trim level. The MDX's interior features high-quality materials and a dual-cowl dashboard design, providing a comfortable and practical space for passengers.
The 2019 GMC Acadia offers a handsome design with a more athletic stance and upscale appearance. It provides a solid amount of space for the driver and front passenger, along with functional storage options throughout the cabin.
















The 2019 Acura MDX comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It also offers the optional SH-AWD system, providing torque-vectoring AWD and improved weight distribution. The MDX Sport Hybrid model offers a satisfying driving experience and better fuel economy.
The 2019 GMC Acadia offers two engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower. It provides strong acceleration and the ability to tow up to 4,000 pounds, making it suitable for various driving situations.
The 2019 Acura MDX boasts an exceptionally comfortable and practical interior, with fantastic front seats, a GPS-linked triple-zone climate control system, and ample storage space. However, the third-row seat comfort is limited, and cargo space varies based on seating configurations.
The 2019 GMC Acadia provides functional storage options, comfortable second-row seats, and a flexible seating arrangement. It offers 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 79 cubic feet with the second and third-row seats folded.
The 2019 Acura MDX features an upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the dual-screen approach and voice-recognition system have been noted as areas for improvement.
The 2019 GMC Acadia comes with GMC’s IntelliLink infotainment system, offering standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a variety of display options based on the trim level.
The 2019 Acura MDX comes equipped with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems as standard, offering various driver-assistance features. However, it has received an Acceptable rating in terms of headlight performance and child safety seat anchor accessibility.
The 2019 GMC Acadia offers comprehensive driver-assistance features, including a blind-spot warning system, lane-departure warning, pedestrian detection, and adaptive headlights, available on higher trims.
CarGurus highlights

Based on the comparison, the 2019 Acura MDX and the 2019 GMC Acadia both offer compelling features and capabilities. However, the Acura MDX stands out for its continuous improvements, comfortable interior, and strong performance, making it a solid choice for consumers seeking a blend of luxury and practicality.
Choose the 2019 GMC Acadia if:
- You prioritize functional storage options and a flexible seating arrangement.
- You seek comprehensive driver-assistance features and a range of trims with varying price points.
- You value a balance of upscale amenities and daily usability.
Choose the 2019 Acura MDX if:
- You prioritize a comfortable and practical interior with high-quality materials.
- You seek strong performance and the option for a hybrid model with better fuel economy.
- You value continuous improvements and a blend of luxury and practicality.
CarGurus highlights

Based on the comparison, the 2019 Acura MDX and the 2019 GMC Acadia both offer compelling features and capabilities. However, the Acura MDX stands out for its continuous improvements, comfortable interior, and strong performance, making it a solid choice for consumers seeking a blend of luxury and practicality.
Choose the 2019 GMC Acadia if:
Shop Now- You prioritize functional storage options and a flexible seating arrangement.
- You seek comprehensive driver-assistance features and a range of trims with varying price points.
- You value a balance of upscale amenities and daily usability.
Choose the 2019 Acura MDX if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a comfortable and practical interior with high-quality materials.
- You seek strong performance and the option for a hybrid model with better fuel economy.
- You value continuous improvements and a blend of luxury and practicality.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.






































