2020 GMC Acadia vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2020 GMC Acadia was positioned as a premium SUV, offering a range of trims from the basic SL to the luxurious Denali. Built on the same platform as the Cadillac XT5, the Acadia shared its assembly line with other GM models, yet aimed to distinguish itself with a "professional grade" appeal. The Denali trim, in particular, showcased upscale aspirations with its Satin Steel Metallic paint and Technology Package, priced at $52,385. The Acadia's design updates were most evident at the front, featuring squared-off headlights and a boxier grille, while the interior saw minor changes like new electronic transmission shift switches and open-pore wood trim in the Denali model. Despite these enhancements, the cabin's mix of materials and design elements struggled to fully establish the Acadia as a premium choice.

The 2021 Audi Q5, on the other hand, presented a sharp and modern appearance, embodying Audi's design language with its expressive face and LED headlights. The Q5 PHEV variant added S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, further elevating its aesthetic appeal. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern ambiance, with a focus on technology and uncluttered design. The materials used were authentic and well-crafted, contributing to a high-quality feel. The 10.1-inch touchscreen and Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus offered a futuristic tech experience, while the second row provided ample space and comfort. Overall, the Q5's design and interior quality set a high standard for compact crossover SUVs.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered three engine options, starting with a 193-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for lower trims. The SLT trim introduced a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 230 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The AT4 and Denali variants featured a 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Acadia's ride and handling were finely tuned, providing a smooth and refined driving experience, though it lacked a memorable driving character. The test vehicle's V6 engine, combined with automatic engine stop/start and cylinder deactivation, achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, with an average of 20.1 mpg in FWD mode.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV took performance to another level with its innovative setup. The PHEV combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds, and achieved 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. The seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive provided versatile driving modes, enhancing efficiency and control. The Q5's handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered flexible seating configurations, accommodating five, six, or seven passengers depending on the trim. The Denali trim featured standard second-row captain's chairs, with an option for a bench seat. The front seats were wide and supportive, ideal for long road trips, while the second-row captain's chairs provided similar comfort. Despite being smaller than previous models, the Acadia's third-row seat offered decent space, though cargo capacity was limited to 12.1 cubic feet behind the third row. Folding the third row expanded cargo space to 41.7 cubic feet, with a maximum of 79 cubic feet available with the second row folded.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV excelled in smart packaging, with its battery pack located under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. The Q5 offered 25.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. The second row provided ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, comfortably seating two adults. The front seats were highly adjustable and supportive, with heating and ventilation options. The interior featured well-placed storage solutions, maintaining a clean and functional design.

The 2020 GMC Acadia came equipped with essential infotainment features, including Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The 8-inch touchscreen offered a higher resolution display and improved user experience. The test vehicle included navigation and a Bose premium sound system, with voice-recognition technology that generally performed well. Additional technology upgrades included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus. The system offered a customizable and futuristic tech experience, with options for navigation and hybrid mode optimization. The Integrated Toll Module provided seamless toll road access, while the Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality. Wireless Apple CarPlay was included, ensuring easy connectivity and functionality.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered standard safety features like a rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology. However, advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were limited, with features like forward collision warning and low-speed automatic emergency braking available only on higher trims. The Acadia received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA in most assessments, but the IIHS provided incomplete data, with high marks in available tests.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the Q5 gasoline model five stars. The Q5 PHEV included six airbags, Audi Pre Sense basic, and various driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system, enhancing safety and convenience.