GMC SUV Models: Which Is Right For You?

Sandy B
Nov 27, 2020

GMC, one of the most recognized hardworking trucks on the market, has a line of full- to compact-size SUVs providing good versatility. If you’re comparing GMC SUV models to determine which one is right for you, you’ll need to look at all of the specs on available models.

2020 GMC Yukon Denali - Photo by GMC

What SUV models does GMC Make?

For 2020, GMC SUV models include:

  • Terrain: $25,000 – $38,300
  • Acadia: $29,800 – $46,300 
  • Next Gen Yukon: $50,700 – $68,400

Are you looking for the most tech-focused GMC SUV on the market, so you don’t have to worry? Are you after an impressive vehicle capable of working hard but also fun to use? By the end of this article, you’ll know which of the GMC SUV models is the right choice for you.

2020 GMC SUV Models

GMC has a full lineup of cars, trucks, and SUVs. Each has a Denali high-end trim option (which really gives you the tech and styling you want). Here’s a look at the 2020 model lineup to help you choose with confidence.

Terrain: $25,000 – $38,300

Impressive from a safety standpoint, the GMC Terrain features GMC Pro Safety standard, giving drivers access to ultrasonic sensors and cameras to automatically stop the brakes or to keep drivers in their lane. The HID headlamps with their C-shape are more than stylish, but also bold and bright.

Two engine options exist, a 1.5L Turbocharged Engine with up to 1,500 pounds of towing capacity and a 2.0L Turbocharged Engine with 3,500 pounds of maximum trailering capacity. Get between 170 and 252 horsepower and 203 lb.-ft. and 260 lb.-ft. of torque along with a 9-speed transmission.

2020 GMC Terrain Denali - Photo by GMC

The less powerful engines in the Terrain are solid with 26 city/30 hwy mpg in the base model engine. Inside, you’ll find nice upgrade options like an electronic precision shift system and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The materials are nice, and the real aluminum trim is a good touch.

With 8 feet of cargo space in the back, there’s ample room for taking just about anything with you. You also have several seating arrangement options and an available SkyScape Sunroof.

Key Specs for the 2020 Terrain Include:

  • Up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity
  • Standard GMC Pro Safety features
  • 1.5-L turbocharged engine
  • Traction select system
  • Denali Premium Suspension on the high-end model

Key Safety and Customer Review Stats Include:

  • 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
  • Solid “Good” ratings from IIHS
  • 4.48-Star Owner Review Rating at Vehicle History
  • 4.4/10 Expert Review Rating at Vehicle History

Acadia: $29,800 – $46,300

The mid-range option from GMC is the Acadia. It has a number of available tech features, including Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a 6-inch color Head-up Display. It’s also upgradable – choose the base model, SLE, SLT, AT4, or the Denali. All have nice interiors and ample tech.

This is the family-sized SUV you want and need with 79 cu. ft. of cargo space, completely flexible, fold-flat split seats, and ample room for seven people. The interior is spacious with upgradable features, including a Next Generation 8-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment system that comes with navigation.

2020 GMC Acadia - Photo by GMC

Choose from several engine options, including a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The biggest engine is a 3.6L V6 engine on the AT4 and Denali trims. Available advanced twin-clutch AWD and Traction Select System for off-road amps up the fun.

It’s not bad in fuel economy, with the biggest engine getting 18/25 mpg. The only real drawback is that so many of the tech features are available and not standard that you may be paying much more for this SUV than you originally thought you would.

Key Specs for the 2020 Acadia Include:

  • 2.0 turbocharged 4-cylinder engine to 3.6L V6
  • 230 to 310 horsepower
  • 258 to 271 lb.-ft. of torque
  • 1,500 to 4,000 pounds of towing capacity
  • Driver Alert Package options

Key Safety and Customer Reviews for the Acadia Include:

  • 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
  • Solid “Good” rating from IIHS
  • 3.76-Star Owner Review at Vehicle History
  • 4.1/10 Expert Review from Vehicle History

Next Gen Yukon: $50,700 – $74,115

Choose from the SLE, SLT, AT4, or Denali trim from the Yukon lineup. There’s no doubt this is a workhorse with up to 8,200 pounds of towing capacity and room for up to nine people.

The Yukon features two engines, a 5.3L V8 engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission that gets 355 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque as the base model. The Denali has a 6.0L V8 engine with best-in-class 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. Available is an all-new active response 4WD system.

2020 GMC Yukon Denali - Photo by GMC

The Yukon gives you class-leading features such as an available power-sliding center console and a massive 144.7 cu. ft of volume. It also features Wireless Android and Apple CarPlay features, a 15-inch diagonal head-up display with an off-road inclinometer, and available heated seats.

The exterior is solid with its big grille and impressive 20-inch Goodyear All-Terrain tires (standard on the Denali). Other nice upgrades include the Denali Instrument Panel, which is bright and intuitive, and the available four-corner air ride adaptive suspension to improve overall comfort even on rough roads.

Key Specs of the 2020 Yukon Include:

  • Up to 8,000 pounds of towing capacity
  • Room for eight or nine
  • 14 city/19 hwy mpg
  • 6.2L V8 engine gets 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque
  • Full-size interior with leather features

Key Safety and Customer Reviews for the Yukon Include:

  • 4-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
  • Not rated by IIHS
  • 5.0-Star Owner Review Ratings at Vehicle History
  • 4.3/10 Expert Review Ratings at Vehicle History

Photos: GMC

avatar Sandy B
Sandy B. has written for The New York Times, Cleveland Magazine, and many online publications. She long-ago ditched the minivan life for the off-roading Ford Explorer (and hoping to restore a Shelby Mustang!)
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