It generally goes without saying, but there are a lot of SUVs to choose from in today’s market. From compact to large, basic to luxurious, there are so many options offered that shopping for an SUV can be a long and complicated process as you give each option the consideration they deserve. Instead of skipping over less familiar models, we invite you to take a moment to check out two models that have been making a name for themselves: the 2024 GMC Acadia and the 2024 Buick Enclave.
Granted, these models have been around for a while, and each has earned a stellar reputation for performance, safety, and providing drivers with exactly what they want when they hit the road. The tradition continues with the 2024 models, including the familiar favorite features and many new updates. Whether you’re a solo commuter who desires a lot of cargo space in their SUV, or have a growing family transport, both of these exceptional SUVs are sure to meet the needs of a variety of drivers and lifestyles. Before you head to your local Buick or GMC dealer, let’s take a closer look at these two notable models.
The New Stylings of the 2024 Acadia
The GMC Acadia has taken on a brand-new shape for 2024. Now standing 10.6 inches longer and 3.2 inches taller than previous models, the 2024 Acadia has more cargo and passenger space than ever. In fact, GMC reports that rear cargo space has increased by nearly 80%. If that’s not enough for your regular cargo needs, fear not; the second and third rows of seats can be folded and stowed to allow you nearly the entire cabin. Still, have some things to bring along with you? Take advantage of the Acadia’s 5000 lb maximum towing capacity to make sure everything gets where it’s going.
Each 2024 Acadia includes a brand-new 2.5L turbocharged engine that’s good for 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is an option on all trims, except for the off-road-ready AT4 trim, which includes its own redesigned Active Torque Control AWD system. The 2024 GMC Acadia is bigger and more powerful than ever, making it an exciting lead to the latest generation of this impressive SUV.
The Familiar Face of the 2024 Enclave
The 2024 Buick Enclave hasn’t changed nearly as significantly as its General Motors stablemate, but that’s for a good reason. The Enclave was originally due for a redesign in 2024, but Buick is now aiming for a 2025 re-reveal. That being said, the current second-generation Enclave is an excellent example of how drivers can enjoy a luxurious drive while still maintaining a reasonable budget.
With the second and third rows of seats folded, 2024 Enclave drivers will have access to 97.4 cu.ft. of cargo space, which can be accessed via a programmable, hands-free power liftgate. An extra 10-inch deep storage area is hidden under the floor for extra valuable belongings. Under the hood is a 3.6L V6 engine that produces a smooth and eager 310 hp. All three Enclave trims– the Essence, Premium, and Avenir– are offered as front or all-wheel drive models.
While there isn’t an off-road version of the Enclave, that’s not its purpose on the road. Instead, the Enclave features things like Buick QuietTuning technology with Active Noise Cancellation. This technology helps “reduce, block, and absorb” noise, according to Buick, with attention paid to door seals, glass, and suspension.
The Acadia Is Packed With an Array of Useful Tech
One area in which both the 2024 GMC Acadia and the 2024 Buick Enclave truly flourish is in the comfort and convenience features provided to their drivers. Offered in Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, the Acadia boasts a standard 15-inch infotainment screen, which controls features like built-in Google compatibility. The Acadia also offers a truly thorough standard advanced safety and driver assistance package, including Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Lane Keep Assist, in addition to familiar offerings like Forward Collision Alert and IntelliBeam High Beams.
For the first time, the 2024 Acadia will offer Super Cruise as available technology on all models, allowing hands-free driving on over 400,000 miles of US and Canadian roadways. The latest version of Super Cruise includes updates such as trailering assist and automatic lange-changing, providing drivers with even more freedom and peace of mind. Also offered are up to nine exterior camera views, all of which can be accessed through the infotainment display. This allows drivers to get a view of every angle of their Acadia, including a helpful Hitch View for those who plan to trailer.
Buick’s Bountiful Comfort
The 2024 Buick Enclave offers many of the same standard features as the Acadia, with a few differences. All Enclave trims include a standard hands-free power-programmable liftgate, as well as Smart Slide second-row seats to allow greater access to cargo and flexibility for rear-seat passengers. Power-folding third-row seats are also available, allowing Enclave drivers to reconfigure their rear space in no time at all. For those who like an added touch of comfort, heated front seats and steering wheel are also standard. An available massage feature allows the driver and passenger to enjoy active stress relief while cruising in the ergonomically designed front seats, as well.
The Enclave sports only an 8-inch standard color touchscreen, so if a larger tablet is important to you, this may require some consideration. However, the infotainment system includes standard wireless phone charging, an available Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Additionally, the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package of driver assistance features is standard, including familiar favorites like Front and Rear Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, and IntelliBeam automatic high beam control.
Considering Your 2024 SUV Choices
At the end of the day, the 2024 GMC Acadia and the 2024 Buick Enclave may be similar vehicles in that they’re three-row SUVs, but they have very different personalities. Both vehicles are substantially loaded with features that improve the overall driving experience, but there are certain differences between a GMC and a Buick. If being ready for off-roading is important to you, then the Acadia is the clear winner. But if having luxury features like a peaceful cabin and massaging seats are more your style, perhaps the Enclave is for you.
Likewise, if you’re interested in the latest tech and an infotainment screen that rivals some laptop computer screens, the Acadia’s 15-inch setup may sound far more appealing than the Enclave’s smaller setup despite the Enclave’s standard wireless approach. Ultimately, there are so many SUVs on the market today because drivers have so many different needs. A seven-passenger Acadia used by a family of five is going to use their vehicle for far different things than a single driver who happens to have a lot of gear that needs to be moved frequently, for example. Still, both vehicles are worth discovering. Regardless of whether the 2024 Acadia or the 2024 Enclave is for you, each vehicle represents a unique segment of today’s automotive offerings that provide drivers with exactly what they want and need.
