2020 GMC Acadia vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience, despite its size and weight. BMW prioritized on-road performance over off-road capabilities, recognizing that most SUV owners preferred a smooth ride on pavement. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. It came with two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a highly praised ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i started at $60,700, featuring AWD, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive safety suite. Various packages allowed for customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced climate controls. The xDrive50i, priced at $75,750, included additional luxury features and a more powerful engine.

In contrast, the 2020 GMC Acadia positioned itself as a premium SUV, offering a range of trims from the basic SL to the luxurious Denali. The Acadia Denali, tested with AWD and Satin Steel Metallic paint, was priced at $52,385. The 2020 model featured a redesigned front with squared-off headlights and a boxier grille, enhancing its upscale appearance. Inside, changes were subtle, with new electronic transmission shift switches and open-pore wood trim in the Denali. The cabin combined soft surfaces with hard plastics, and while the layout was logical, it lacked the premium feel expected from a high-end SUV. The Acadia's interior was functional but didn't stand out in terms of luxury or design.

The 2019 BMW X5 excelled in performance, with its turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive40i could accelerate to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds, while the xDrive50i's V8 engine offered 456 hp and 479 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The X5's 8-speed ZF automatic transmission was praised for its smoothness and efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 highway. Built on BMW's Cluster Architecture platform, the X5 combined steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for strength and reduced weight. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height, enhancing both comfort and sportiness. The X5's ride quality was impressive, even on 20-inch run-flat tires, and could be further improved with the Dynamic Handling Package or the off-road package.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered three engine options: a 193-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 230-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and a 310-hp 3.6-liter V6. The V6, paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth and refined power, with a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds. The Acadia's ride and handling were well-tuned, offering a comfortable driving experience, though it lacked the engaging character of the X5. The test vehicle's powertrain included features like automatic engine stop/start and cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy, achieving an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The Acadia's driving dynamics were competent but unremarkable, making it a reliable but forgettable choice in terms of performance.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design shifted to aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. While the design was modern, it could feel less premium without optional upgrades like glass and ceramic buttons. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, lacking ventilation and proper lumbar support, though the $1,600 Luxury Seating package offered improvements. The X5 provided ample space, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo room expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The air suspension facilitated easy loading, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered seating for five, six, or seven passengers, with the Denali trim featuring standard second-row captain's chairs. The front seats were wide and supportive, with heating and ventilation, making them ideal for long trips. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, with amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The third-row seat was surprisingly roomy, though cargo space was limited to 12.1 cubic feet behind it. Folding the third row expanded cargo capacity to 41.7 cubic feet, and with the second row down, it reached 79 cubic feet. The Acadia's interior was practical, with improved storage space due to new electronic transmission controls.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control was unreliable, and the customizable screens and voice controls were not as advanced as competitors. The iDrive interface was well-designed but required time to master. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving, but its high-speed performance was disappointing, with issues like lane wandering and overcorrection. The adaptive cruise control was effective, and the Parking Assistant Plus package provided useful features like a 3D camera. Optional upgrades included a night-vision system and a rear-seat entertainment system, while the Harman Kardon stereo delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2020 GMC Acadia came with essential infotainment features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen offered a higher resolution and improved user experience. The Acadia's infotainment system was intuitive, with easy navigation and voice recognition that generally worked well. New technology for 2020 included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror. The rear camera mirror provided a clear view behind the vehicle, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire system, providing a nearly natural feel with some feedback during braking. The M Sport brakes allowed for a stopping distance of 119 feet from 60 mph. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 5-star side crash test results. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, awarding top scores in all tests.

The 2020 GMC Acadia's safety features were lacking compared to competitors. Standard equipment included a rear-seat reminder and Teen Driver technology, with a short free trial of GMC Connected Services. Blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings were standard, but forward collision warning and low-speed automatic emergency braking required an upgrade to SLT or AT4 trim. The Denali trim offered enhanced automatic emergency braking. The NHTSA gave the Acadia 5-star ratings in most tests, with a 4-star rollover rating. The IIHS provided incomplete data, with high marks in available tests.