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A black 2019 GMC Acadia All Terrain in front of a glass building

A Clear Winner: 2019 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Nissan Pathfinder

Remember back during your school days when there was that one rival who was seemingly better at everything. No matter how hard you tried, no matter how much you succeeded, that individual always somehow came away with the upper hand. It was frustrating, right? Well, now you can have some sweet, sweet redemption. If you’re finding that you want to start opting for superior things, then you’ll find that the 2019 GMC Acadia is clearly the better option when put head-to-head with the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder. Now, similar to our analogy up top, it’s not like the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder isn’t an impressive ride. Rather, at least when it comes to the performance and technology, the 2019 GMC Acadia has clearly proven itself as the superior option in regards to 2019 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Nissan Pathfinder.

Below, we’ve taken a look at how the performance and technology stack up in the competition between the 2019 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Nissan Pathfinder. See how these two nameplates compare, and you’ll quickly understand which SUV is the superior option…

Performance

2019 GMC Acadia

The 2019 GMC Acadia is fully prepared for the open road. The vehicle’s pair of engine offerings manage to deliver a unique blend of power and efficiency, all leading to one of the best-possible SUV driving experiences. Plus, thanks to the multiple options, customers will have the ability to zero-in on whatever system best fits their specific needs.

The 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder SIDI engine is the smallest of the two options, but the unit still manages to pack quite the punch. Drivers can ultimately anticipate up to 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque from the system, meaning drivers will be more than prepared to overcome other drivers on the highway. Meanwhile, thanks to fuel-saving technologies like Stop/Start technology and Variable Valve Timing, drivers will also have the opportunity to take advantage of an incredible 26-mile-per-gallon highway fuel efficiency. This is an incredible efficiency spec that’s rarely seen in other SUVs.

For those seeking the ultimate muscle from their new SUV, then the 3.6-liter V6 engine is the perfect place to start. Drivers can anticipate an insane 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, so they will be more than prepared to overcome many types of odd terrain. Of course, these numbers have a vicarious impact on other areas of the vehicle, as drivers can anticipate up to a 4,000-pound towing capacity. Ultimately, if you’re seeking power from your new SUV, then this is seemingly the ideal option.

Of course, the brand added an assortment of additional mechanical functions that will come in handy throughout your driving experience. The Traction Select System allows drivers to adapt their SUV’s mechanics to accommodate the impending road conditions. Regardless of whether you choose All-Wheel Drive, Off-Road, Snow, Sport, or Trailer/Tow, you can rest easy knowing that your vehicle is ready for the impending adventure. Plus, add in the brand’s unique Continuously Variable Real-Time Damping Suspension, and you can easily maintain control of your SUV despite all of that previously-mentioned power.

When brands provide customers with multiple engine offerings, we generally find that the vehicles’ overall performance suffers. With engineers focused on producing so many engines, many of the performance nuances end up being compromised. Fortunately, GMC has managed to provide an unmatched driving experience with their 2019 GMC Acadia. You’re about to learn that this nameplate is superior to the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder, but it’s worth pointing out that the Acadia is superior to many vehicles when it comes to performance.

2019 Nissan Pathfinder

Listen, we’d be happy if you read a 1,000-word blog post, but we don’t want to waste your precious time. If you’re seeking optimal performance from your brand-new SUV, why would you opt for anything other than the 2019 GMC Acadia?

However, we understand your desire for comparison. Well, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder can only be equipped with one single engine option: the 3.5-liter V6 engine. The unit does produce admirable power specs at 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque, although these numbers are still inferior to those included in the 2019 GMC Acadia. These specs also play a role in the 6,000-pound towing capacity, and inclusions like direct injection play a role in the 27-mile-per-gallon highway fuel efficiency. Still, except for the towing capacity, you can anticipate better numbers from the rival SUV.

While those numbers are plenty impressive, they still trail the 2019 GMC Acadia by a solid margin. When you also consider the number of engine options provided by the rival SUV, it should be pretty clear what vehicle has the upper hand when it comes to performance.

Technology

2019 GMC Acadia

A red 2019 GMC Acadia Denali in front of a modern-looking mansion

Whether you’re going to be relying on your brand-new SUV as a family ride or a standard commuter, you’ll be able to appreciate all of the technological amenities that engineers included in the 2019 GMC Acadia. These various functions will play a significant role in optimizing the entire driving experience, as both drivers and passengers can remain entertained throughout their journey.

Naturally, this sentiment revolves around the incredible eight-inch GMC Infotainment System, which provides quick and easy access to an assortment of notable applications. Whether you’re looking for directions, a bite to eat, or your favorite radio station, it’s all accessible via this unit. Plus, the system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone. That way, you can make phone calls, send text messages, or listen to your favorite playlists without having to glance down at your phone (which also vicariously impacts safety).

There are some innovative functions included in the 2019 GMC Acadia that may be underrated, but still prove to be just as essential. For instance, the Rear Seat Reminder will alert the driver when they’ve forgotten anything out back. Meanwhile, the Hitch Guidance with Hitch View, proves to be an excellent choice for those who are going to be hauling with their new ride.

Entertainment and convenience are generally priorities for those seeking a brand-new vehicle. Well, the 2019 GMC Acadia certainly won’t disappoint in this regard. The nameplate doesn’t only provide more technological offerings than its rival, but it also helps provide drivers with an unmatched driving experience.

2019 Nissan Pathfinder

Similar to the performance numbers, the technology that’s included in the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder is fine. In fact, some may even describe it as “more than fine.” However, when the SUV is put head-to-head with the 2019 GMC Acadia, it should be pretty obvious which vehicle is superior.

The inclusions are predictable: the main star of the interior is the infotainment system, which provides easy access to an assortment of driver-centric apps. The smartphone compatibility makes it easy to access your preferred gadget during any step of your journey, while the accompanying sound system provides a solid listening experience. Engineers even included a hands-free lift gate, adding some much-needed convenience functions to your ride.

However, at the end of the day, those are pretty much the premier highlights from the vehicle. Sure, drivers can choose to add some additional amenities to the ride, and the various comfort features are much appreciated. However, at the end of the day, if you’re seeking a vehicle that provides top-notch technology, you’d be better off rolling with the 2019 GMC Acadia.

While these are only a couple of categories you’re sure to feel the immediate differences once you drive the 2019 GMC Acadia vs 2019 Nissan Pathfinder side by side. Both will get you where you need to go, but you’re probably going to enjoy one more that the other, and we think we know which one that will be.