2020 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee, despite its decade-old design, maintained a timeless appeal with its classic 7-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a variety of aluminum wheel designs. The attention to balance, proportion, and detail was evident, making it a visually appealing choice. The Laredo trim started at $31,945, with an additional $1,495 destination charge, and 4WD added another $2,000. The Grand Cherokee offered 11 additional trims, each catering to different preferences, from style to luxury and performance. The Limited X version, priced at just over $50,000, featured a performance vented hood, unique 20-inch wheels, and special leather seats, giving it an upscale appearance. However, the interior had its drawbacks, with hard plastic panels and some build quality issues, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction.

The 2020 GMC Acadia, positioned as a premium brand, offered a range of trims including SL, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. The Denali trim, priced at $52,385, featured all-wheel drive, Satin Steel Metallic paint, and a Technology Package. The Acadia's design changes were most noticeable in the front, with squared-off headlights and a boxier grille, conveying its upscale aspirations. Inside, changes were subtle, with new electronic transmission shift switches and real open-pore wood trim for Denali models. The cabin had a mix of soft surfaces and hard plastic panels, with controls laid out logically. However, aside from leather upholstery and wood trim, there was little to establish the Acadia as a premium choice.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower. For those seeking more power, options included a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8, a 425-hp 6.4-liter V8 in the SRT, and the Trackhawk's 707-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8. An 8-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with three 4WD systems available depending on the trim. The Limited X test vehicle featured Quadra-Drive II, providing excellent off-road capabilities. However, the added weight and driveline friction affected fuel economy, with real-world figures averaging 18.3 mpg. On-road, the Grand Cherokee felt robust, with strong acceleration and better-than-expected handling, though brake performance was a concern during long descents.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered three engine choices: 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 new nine-speed automatic transmission, with FWD or AWD options. The AT4 trim featured a dual-clutch AWD system and all-terrain tires. The V6 and nine-speed automatic provided smooth power and up to 4,000 pounds of towing capacity. The test vehicle averaged 20.1 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating. The Acadia's ride and handling were finely tuned, offering a comfortable driving experience, though it lacked memorable driving character.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a 5-passenger midsize SUV, offered a roomy interior with comfortable power-adjustable and heated front seats. However, backseat passengers faced discomfort from hard plastic front-seatback panels. Storage space was limited, with a center console storage bin, cup holders, and small door-panel bins. Cargo space measured 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 GMC Acadia accommodated five to seven passengers, with the Denali trim offering 6-passenger seating. The front seats were wide and supportive, with heating and ventilation. The second-row captain’s chairs provided similar comfort, and the third-row seat was roomier than expected. Interior storage improved with new electronic transmission controls and a reconfigured center console. Cargo volume was 12.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 41.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 79 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an upgraded Uconnect system available on higher trims. This included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a navigation system. The voice recognition system was excellent, and the 9-speaker Alpine audio system sounded good, with a 19-speaker Harman Kardon system available on higher trims.

The 2020 GMC Acadia featured Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen offered a higher resolution display and improved voice recognition. The infotainment system was user-friendly, and additional technology included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered modern driver-assistance technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and available parking assistance. The Advanced Active Safety Group package added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. However, the Grand Cherokee received poor safety ratings from the IIHS and a 3-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2020 GMC Acadia included a rear-seat reminder and Teen Driver technology. Standard safety features included blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning. Advanced safety features were available on higher trims, with the Denali offering enhanced automatic emergency braking. The Acadia received 5-star ratings in most NHTSA tests and a 4-star rollover resistance rating.