2020 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Toyota 4Runner

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner had a rugged and functional design that matched its off-road capabilities. Its stubby front and rear ends provided steep approach and departure angles, while large tires and flared fenders enhanced its trail performance. The 4Runner's style was a product of necessity, not just aesthetics. Trim levels ranged from the base SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro, each offering unique features like 17-inch alloy wheels, under-body skid plates, and a power up/down rear window. Inside, the 4Runner's interior was dated but functional, with an 8-way power driver’s seat, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 120-volt power outlet in the cargo area.

In contrast, the 2020 GMC Acadia aimed for a more upscale appearance, especially in the Denali trim. The Acadia featured a boxier grille and squared-off headlights, giving it a premium look. Inside, the Denali trim offered leather upholstery, real open-pore wood trim, and a redesigned center console. The Acadia's cabin was a mix of soft surfaces and hard plastic panels, with logical control layouts. Despite its premium aspirations, the Acadia's interior didn't fully establish it as a luxury SUV, lacking some of the finer details found in higher-end models.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This setup, though dated, was reliable and capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. The 4Runner's off-road prowess was enhanced by features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select system, and crawl control, especially in the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims. However, its fuel economy was a downside, with 4WD models achieving just 17 mpg city, 20 highway, and 18 combined.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered three engine options: a 193-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 230-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and a 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6. All engines were paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The Acadia's V6 engine provided smooth and refined power, with a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds. The Acadia's ride and handling were finely tuned, offering a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Fuel economy for the V6 AWD model was rated at 21 mpg combined, with my test vehicle averaging 20.1 mpg.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and practical interior, with ample head- and legroom for front and rear passengers. Its fully enclosed cabin provided nearly 90 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it highly versatile for outdoor activities. The 4Runner's interior was simple and functional, with large knobs and a 6.1-inch touchscreen that was easy to operate even with gloves on.

The 2020 GMC Acadia could seat five, six, or seven passengers, depending on the trim level. The Denali trim featured comfortable 10-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, as well as heated second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seat was roomier than expected, though cargo space behind it was limited to 12.1 cubic feet. With the third-row seats folded, cargo space increased to 41.7 cubic feet, and maximum cargo volume was 79 cubic feet. The Acadia's reconfigured center console improved interior storage space.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner lagged in technology, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SR5 Premium trim included the upgraded Entune system with navigation and Siri Eyes Free, but the overall tech experience was basic and straightforward. The 4Runner's infotainment system was familiar and easy to use, but it lacked the modern connectivity features found in newer vehicles.

The 2020 GMC Acadia came standard with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and GMC Connected Services, including a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen offered a higher resolution display and improved voice recognition. Additional tech features included new USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror. The Acadia's infotainment system was user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy for anyone with a smartphone to operate.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner came with basic safety features, including a full array of airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. However, it lacked advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that are standard on many modern vehicles. The 4Runner received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but only 3 stars in the rollover test.

The 2020 GMC Acadia included standard safety features like a rear-seat reminder system, Teen Driver technology, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. However, advanced safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were only available on higher trims and as part of optional packages. The Acadia received 5-star ratings in most NHTSA assessments, with a 4-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS gave it high marks in most tests but had incomplete data for headlight performance and small overlap frontal-impact protection for the front passenger.