Used GMC SUVs come in a variety of forms. From the burly Yukon to the efficient Terrain, GMC has the SUV for you. In this article we’ll break down the types of SUV you might find on the resale market — their strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.
Key Takeaways
- GMC offers a number of different-size SUVs, and the right one depends on what kind of car you want
- The full-size Yukon seats eight with plenty of legroom and storage space, but has all the drawbacks of big cars
- The mid-size Acadia seats 7–8 with varying amounts of space behind the back seats
- The compact Terrain seats 5 but is the easiest to drive and the most fuel-efficient car on this list
Yukon
The largest of GMC’s SUVs, the Yukon is overwhelmingly similar to its counterpart in the Chevy Tahoe. The primary differences are twofold: A more upscale interior, and a more refined driving experience. As far as amenities go, the Yukon models typically deliver just shy of the Cadillac Escalade or the Lincoln Navigator. It seats eight and can accommodate cargo even with the third row up. It’s a great people and cargo hauler.
According to Kelly Blue Book, the Yukon is within the top 10-25% of SUVs when it comes to value retention. This means that a resold Yukon will hold more of the value you invested into it than comparable full-size SUVs
Just as its upsides result from its size, so do its downsides. The Yukon’s XL variants can prove difficult to park or use in dense areas, and isn’t as fuel-friendly as the Acadia or Terrain. For someone in need of space and comfort, the Yukon remains an excellent choice.
A step down from the full-size Yukon, the Acadia retains the three-row setup (sitting 7), with varying space behind the third row. Models with the V6 engine are punchy and easy riding on the highway. It’s the middle ground between capability and efficiency — and fills that role remarkably well.
Tech-wise, the Acadia models typically out-perform other midsize SUVs in their model years, and bring a nice suite of amenities depending on the model.
As a middle sized SUV, you’ll find more room in your garage around the Acadia, and an easier time in cities. But you’ll not have much room if you’re riding with the third row’s seats up. The fuel economy is good with the V4’s of newer and thriftier Acadia models. As a middle ground between truck-sized hauler and daily driver, the versatile Acadia will not disappoint.
As the smallest of GMC’s SUV lineup, the nimble Terrain finds its place in cities, tight quarters, and budget-conscious drivers. With two rows and a respectable trunk, it has the capability for everyday tasks, with none of the extra mass of the larger SUVs. Like any of GMC’s lineup, the Terrain doesn’t sleep on technology or interior anointments, but doesn’t reach into the cost of full-blown luxury cars. Newer models have heated steering wheels, heated seats, and remote start standard.
Upper trims of the Terrain feature surprisingly adept offroad capability — a rarity among the compact SUV class. But it retains its on-road manners excellently and maintains a solid, comfortable ride.
As a compact SUV, you’ll find this car the easiest to move around cities, and the most fuel-efficient pick of the bunch. It’s the middle ground between compact and luxury SUVs and offers great value for the price point it occupies.
Our thoughts:
For drivers in need of more capability, a larger Yukon will never leave you wanting. For drivers wanting a smaller budget and easier parking, a Terrain will provide readily.
And for drivers wanting a little bit of both, an Acadia will not disappoint.
To get your hands on one of these or any other SUVs, come down to Alan Jay GMC today for a test drive.