The SUV market is filled with various options, and among the most popular contenders are the 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia. Both vehicles offer a unique set of features, performance capabilities, and styling, catering to different tastes and requirements.
In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the essential aspects of both SUVs, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect vehicle for you and your family.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia boast distinctive exterior designs that set them apart from their competition.
The Chevy Blazer features a bold and aggressive design with a prominent front grille, angular headlights, and sculpted body lines. The sporty stance of the Blazer is further accentuated by its wide stance and large alloy wheels. The optional blacked-out grille and accents on the RS trim add a touch of elegance to the overall design.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia presents a more refined and sophisticated look with its signature C-shaped LED headlights, large grille with chrome accents, and sleek body lines. The Acadia’s upscale appearance is complemented by the available Denali trim, which adds premium touches like chrome accents, a unique grille design, and exclusive wheels.
Interior Design
Inside, both the Blazer and Acadia offer well-crafted and comfortable cabins, but with some differences in terms of design elements and materials used.
The Blazer’s interior is focused on delivering a sporty and driver-centric experience. The dashboard design is sleek and modern, featuring a floating infotainment screen, circular air vents, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel on certain trims. Soft-touch materials and available leather upholstery add a premium feel to the cabin.
The GMC Acadia, on the other hand, focuses on providing a more luxurious and spacious interior. High-quality materials are used throughout, and the dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered. The available Denali trim takes the luxury quotient up a notch with real wood accents, leather upholstery, and a more sophisticated design.
Seating
Both SUVs offer comfortable seating arrangements, but they cater to different passenger capacities.
The 2023 Chevy Blazer is a 5-seater SUV that offers ample space for all occupants. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, while the rear seats provide decent legroom and headroom for adult passengers. Available features like heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated rear seats add to the overall comfort.
In contrast, the GMC Acadia can seat up to seven passengers with its standard configuration, making it a better option for larger families. The Acadia’s first and second rows offer generous space, while the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults. Available second-row captain’s chairs reduce the seating capacity to six but provide increased comfort and easier access to the third row.
Storage
Storage is a crucial factor when considering a family SUV, and both the Blazer and Acadia offer practical storage solutions.
The Chevy Blazer provides 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 64.2 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. The Blazer also features clever storage solutions like under-floor compartments and an adjustable cargo floor.
The GMC Acadia offers more cargo capacity with 41.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 79 cubic feet when both the second and third rows are folded down. Additionally, the Acadia boasts various storage compartments, including a large center console, under-floor storage, and an available hands-free power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area.
Performance
Performance is a significant factor for many SUV buyers, and both the 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia offer a range of powertrain options to suit different driving preferences.
The Chevy Blazer comes with three engine options: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 193 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 227 horsepower, and a potent 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 308 horsepower. All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available on select trims. The Blazer’s sporty handling and responsive steering make it enjoyable to drive on various road conditions.
The GMC Acadia also offers three engine choices: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 193 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower, and a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 310 horsepower. A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard across all trims. Like the Blazer, the Acadia comes with front-wheel drive as standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an option. The Acadia’s ride is smooth and composed, with a focus on providing a comfortable driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is essential for many SUV buyers, and both the Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia deliver competitive fuel economy numbers.
The 2023 Chevy Blazer’s most fuel-efficient engine is the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, which achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. The base 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine offers slightly lower numbers at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the V6 engine delivers 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
The GMC Acadia’s most efficient option is the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which is rated at 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. The base 2.5-liter engine returns 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, and the V6 engine achieves 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Safety
Both the Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features to keep you and your passengers protected.
The 2023 Chevy Blazer offers standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and a rear vision camera. Available features include adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera.
The GMC Acadia also comes standard with automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. Additional available safety features include adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system.
Trim Levels
Both the 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia are available in various trim levels to cater to different budgets and preferences.
The Chevy Blazer is offered in four trims: L, LT, RS, and Premier. Each trim level provides a different set of features, with the RS and Premier trims focusing on sporty and luxurious elements, respectively.
The GMC Acadia is available in five trims: SL, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. The AT4 trim offers off-road capabilities with its all-terrain tires and exclusive suspension tuning, while the Denali trim is the most luxurious, featuring premium materials and advanced technology.
Pricing
Pricing is always a significant factor when choosing a new vehicle, and both the 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia offer competitive starting prices.
The Chevy Blazer has a starting price of around $33,000 for the base L trim, with the top-of-the-line Premier trim starting at around $43,000. The sporty RS trim, which offers a more aggressive appearance and performance-focused features, starts at around $41,000.
The GMC Acadia’s starting price is slightly higher, with the base SL trim starting at around $34,000. The top-tier Denali trim begins at approximately $48,000, while the off-road-oriented AT4 trim starts at around $43,000.
Key Differences
While both the 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia are popular SUV options that cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets, there are several key differences between the two models. These differences can significantly influence a buyer’s decision based on their specific needs and priorities.
Exterior and Interior Design:
The Chevy Blazer features a bold, aggressive exterior design with a sporty stance, while the GMC Acadia presents a more refined, sophisticated appearance. Similarly, the interior design of the Blazer leans towards a sporty, driver-centric experience, whereas the Acadia focuses on a luxurious, spacious cabin.
Seating Capacity:
The Blazer is a 5-seater SUV, making it suitable for smaller families or those who don’t require additional seating. In contrast, the Acadia can seat up to seven passengers, making it a better option for larger families or those who frequently carry extra passengers.
Storage and Cargo Capacity:
The GMC Acadia offers more cargo capacity than the Chevy Blazer, with 41.7 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 79 cubic feet when both the second and third rows are folded down. The Blazer provides 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 64.2 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Buyers who prioritize cargo space might find the Acadia a more practical option.
Performance Characteristics:
While both SUVs offer three engine options and a 9-speed automatic transmission, their driving dynamics differ. The Blazer is designed for a sportier driving experience with responsive steering and agile handling. On the other hand, the Acadia focuses on providing a smooth, composed ride and comfortable driving experience.
Trim Levels:
The Chevy Blazer is available in four trims: L, LT, RS, and Premier, with the RS trim offering sporty design elements and features. The GMC Acadia comes in five trims: SL, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. The Acadia’s AT4 trim is tailored for off-road adventures, while the Denali trim provides the most luxurious experience.
Pricing:
The Chevy Blazer has a slightly lower starting price compared to the GMC Acadia, with the base L trim starting at around $33,000. The Acadia’s base SL trim has a starting price of around $34,000. However, the top-tier trims of both models are similarly priced, with the Blazer Premier starting at around $43,000 and the Acadia Denali at around $48,000.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between the 2023 Chevy Blazer and GMC Acadia comes down to your individual needs, preferences, and priorities. The Blazer offers a sporty edge with its bold design and engaging driving dynamics, while the Acadia provides a more luxurious and spacious experience for larger families.
By carefully considering the various aspects of each model, such as design, performance, and available features, you can confidently determine which SUV best suits your lifestyle. Take the time to test drive both vehicles and experience their unique offerings firsthand before making your final decision.
Features Breakdown
2023 Chevy Blazer:
- Exterior Design:
- Bold, aggressive styling
- Prominent front grille
- Angular headlights
- Sculpted body lines
- Wide stance and large alloy wheels
- Optional blacked-out accents on RS trim
- Interior Design:
- Sporty, driver-centric cabin
- Sleek dashboard design
- Floating infotainment screen
- Circular air vents
- Soft-touch materials and available leather upholstery
- Seating:
- 5-passenger capacity
- Supportive and comfortable front seats
- Decent rear legroom and headroom
- Available heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated rear seats
- Storage:
- 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space (64.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded)
- Under-floor compartments and adjustable cargo floor
- Performance:
- Three engine options (2.5L 4-cylinder, 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 3.6L V6)
- 9-speed automatic transmission
- Standard front-wheel drive, available all-wheel drive
- Sporty handling and responsive steering
- Fuel Efficiency:
- 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder: 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway (FWD)
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
- 3.6L V6: 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
- Safety:
- Standard automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and rear vision camera
- Available adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and surround-view camera
- Trim Levels:
- L, LT, RS, Premier
- Pricing:
- L: Starting at around $33,000
- LT: Starting at around $35,000 (estimate)
- RS: Starting at around $41,000
- Premier: Starting at around $43,000
2023 GMC Acadia:
- Exterior Design:
- Refined, sophisticated styling
- Signature C-shaped LED headlights
- Large grille with chrome accents
- Sleek body lines
- Upscale appearance with Denali trim
- Interior Design:
- Luxurious, spacious cabin
- High-quality materials
- Clean, uncluttered dashboard layout
- Real wood accents and leather upholstery in Denali trim
- Seating:
- Up to 7-passenger capacity (6 with available second-row captain’s chairs)
- Generous space in the first and second rows
- Third row best suited for children or smaller adults
- Storage:
- 41.7 cubic feet of cargo space (79 cubic feet with second and third rows folded)
- Various storage compartments and available hands-free power liftgate
- Performance:
- Three engine options (2.5L 4-cylinder, 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 3.6L V6)
- 9-speed automatic transmission
- Standard front-wheel drive, available all-wheel drive
- Smooth, composed ride
- Fuel Efficiency:
- 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder: 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway (FWD)
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
- 6L V6: 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
- Safety:
- Standard automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and rearview camera
- Available adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, head-up display, and surround-view camera system
- Trim Levels:
- SL, SLE, SLT, AT4, Denali
- Pricing:
- SL: Starting at around $34,000
- SLE: Starting at around $36,000 (estimate)
- SLT: Starting at around $40,000 (estimate)
- AT4: Starting at around $43,000
- Denali: Starting at around $48,000
