2020 GMC Acadia vs 2019 INFINITI QX50

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 was redesigned to be wider and taller, offering two extra inches of ground clearance and more interior space, including a trunk capacity of 31.4 cubic feet. The rear seats were modular, sliding and reclining without sacrificing legroom, even for taller passengers. However, the panoramic sunroof slightly compromised headroom. The interior was revamped with high-quality materials and a new infotainment system, providing a quiet cabin experience thanks to a noise-cancelling system. The base "Pure" trim started at $36,550, offering features like LED headlights and a forward-collision warning system. The "Luxe" trim added a panoramic sunroof and blind-spot monitoring for $39,400. The top-tier "Essential" trim, priced at $43,350, included navigation, leather seats, and a 360-degree camera. Optional packages like the $7,500 Sensory package added luxury and safety features, while all-wheel drive was available for an additional $1,800.

The 2020 GMC Acadia, positioned as a premium brand, shared its platform with the Chevrolet Blazer and Traverse. It was available in SL, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali trims. The Denali trim, tested with all-wheel drive and Satin Steel Metallic paint, was priced at $52,385. The Acadia's design changes were most noticeable in the front, with squared-off headlights and a boxier grille. The cabin featured minor updates, including electronic transmission shift switches and open-pore wood trim for Denali models. The interior combined soft surfaces with hard plastic panels, and while the layout was logical, the Denali trim lacked distinctive premium features beyond leather upholstery and wood trim.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the first mass-produced variable-compression engine, producing 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Despite the innovative engine, the performance was underwhelming, with a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds, slower than the previous V6 model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) struggled with power delivery, causing a bog-surge-wheelspin cycle during acceleration. The EPA estimated fuel economy at 24 city and 31 highway mpg, with a combined rating of 27 mpg, though real-world tests showed 24 mpg. The ride prioritized comfort over sportiness, but the Direct Adaptive Steering system was inconsistent and difficult to adjust to.

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. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available. The AT4 trim featured a dual-clutch AWD system and all-terrain tires. The V6 engine provided smooth, refined power and a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. The test vehicle's powertrain included automatic engine stop/start and cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The Acadia's ride and handling were well-tuned, though the driving experience was unremarkable.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50's interior was high-quality, with ample space and pleasing materials. However, the abundance of technology created a cluttered dashboard, with confusing controls and an underperforming infotainment system. The shifter's unconventional "PARK" button placement was a safety concern, potentially leading to accidental gear shifts.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered seating for five, six, or seven passengers, with the Denali trim providing six-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs. The front seats were wide and supportive, with heating and ventilation, while the second-row seats were heated and comfortable. The third-row seat was roomier than expected, though cargo space was limited to 12.1 cubic feet behind it. Folding the third-row seat expanded cargo capacity to 41.7 cubic feet, with a maximum of 79 cubic feet with the second row folded. Interior storage improved with new electronic transmission controls and a reconfigured center console.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered advanced safety tech in the $2,000 ProActive package, including intelligent cruise control and ProPilot assist, but these features were only available on the top-tier Essential trim. The base model was well-equipped with technology, but the infotainment system was frustrating to use.

The 2020 GMC Acadia included popular infotainment features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen had a higher resolution and improved user experience. The test vehicle's infotainment system was easy to use, with navigation and a Bose sound system. Additional tech upgrades included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50's safety features were limited, with advanced systems only available on higher trims. The vehicle had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2020 GMC Acadia needed improvement in safety features, with standard blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings. Advanced safety systems like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were optional on higher trims. NHTSA gave the Acadia 5-star ratings in most tests, but IIHS data was incomplete.