2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 GMC Acadia

The 2020 GMC Acadia was positioned as a premium brand, aiming to be more upscale than Chevrolets but not quite reaching the luxury of Cadillacs. Built on the same platform as the Cadillac XT5, the Acadia shared powertrains and assembly origins in Spring Hill, Tennessee. The 2020 model introduced noticeable design changes, particularly at the front with squared-off headlights and a boxier grille, enhancing its upscale aspirations. Inside, the cabin retained its previous design with minor updates like new electronic transmission shift switches and real open-pore wood trim for Denali models. Despite its premium positioning, the Acadia's interior mixed soft surfaces with hard plastic panels, and aside from leather upholstery and wood trim, it lacked distinctive premium features.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in its class, offering superior interior quality compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator. The X7's design was bold, with a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, the X7 shared similarities with the X5 but with enhancements that elevated its luxury status. The cabin was equipped with high-tech design, high-quality materials, and mostly intuitive controls. The X7's visual presence and technological sophistication made it a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious and prestigious SUV experience.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered three engine options. Lower trims featured a 193-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the SLT trim came with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 230 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The AT4 and Denali variants boasted a 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, available in most other Acadias. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the Acadia offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The AT4 trim had a dual-clutch AWD system and all-terrain tires for a rugged appeal. The 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, though its driving character was considered forgettable.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery to improve fuel economy and responsiveness. Despite the technology, the X7's EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. However, its driving dynamics were affected by excessive body motions, even with the optional Dynamic Handling Package. The X7 excelled in providing a smooth and serene ride, with features like Active Comfort Drive and Integral Active Steering enhancing comfort and stability.

The 2020 GMC Acadia offered seating for five, six, or seven passengers, with the Denali trim providing six-passenger seating via standard second-row captain's chairs. The front seats were wide and supportive, with 10-way power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, and rear passengers had access to air conditioning vents, USB ports, and a power outlet. 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 seats folded.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, featuring heated and ventilated front seats with massaging functions, extended premium Merino leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. The second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable, though access could be challenging due to long rear doors. The third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably, with power seat adjustments facilitating access. Cargo space was limited behind the third-row seat, but folding it down revealed 48.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with the second-row folded. While not class-leading, the X7's cargo capacity was adequate for most needs.

The 2020 GMC Acadia came equipped with essential infotainment features, including Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Models with an 8-inch touchscreen offered a higher resolution display and improved voice recognition. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with additional technology upgrades like USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, a high-definition surround-view camera, and a rear camera mirror providing an unobstructed view behind the vehicle.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, enhanced SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic and parking information. Wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were also available, though the latter was inconsistent. The iDrive system was intuitive for those familiar with modern technology, though it could be distracting while driving. A head-up display was included, though visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

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, with a 4-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS provided incomplete data, with high marks in available tests.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with comprehensive safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, enhancing safety and reducing stress. The X7's ADAS was generally impressive, though some specific situations revealed limitations. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.