The 2020 GMC Acadia comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.New turbocharged four-cylinder engine option.Nine-speed transmission replaces former six-speed unit.Upgraded navigation and entertainment system.New outdoor-oriented AT4 trim level.
Pros Refined ride quality makes it comfortable in any driving situation Quick acceleration from the optional V6 engine Simple cabin layout means everything is usable at a glance Modern onboard technology keeps you connected
Cons Cabin isn't particularly luxurious, even in the priciest trim levels Some rival crossovers have more cargo and third-row space Lackluster base engine
The Acadia receives a facelift for 2020, with a new grille, newly standard LED headlights, and revisions to the rear end. There's also a new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine—standard on the SLT and Denali trims—which GMC estimates will have 230 horsepower when it goes on sale late in the model year. The trim lineup has expanded to include an AT4 model, which brings off-road-inspired design (including 17-inch wheels fitted with all-terrain tires) to the Acadia lineup.
Pros Attractive design, improved infotainment, plenty of in-cabin storage space.
Cons Quality doesn't match price, cramped third row, unimpressive fuel economy.
The 2020 GMC Acadia’s expanded lineup and new styling look worth the wait.
Pros Good looks Infotainment upgrades worthwhile Intriguing new turbo-4
Cons Active safety tech should be standard A little narrow inside Push-button shifters not our favorite
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional safety features are now standard on the base Sport trim level.New options, such as a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and second-row captain's chairs.Two USB ports added to the third row on Grand Touring and Signature models.Maximum torque output goes from 310 to 320 lb-ft with 93-octane fuel.
PROS Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers.
Pros Very attractive Well-done interior Good safety gear Engaging responsiveness
Cons Lousy infotainment Cramped third-row and cargo space Limited lineup
Mazda has given the CX-9 several upgrades for 2020, not least of which is a standard suite of driver-assistance features called i-Activsense. The bundle includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Also now standard are heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlamps, and heated exterior mirrors. Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models now come with a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a new key-fob design, and power-adjustable second-row seats.
Pros Snappy driving dynamics, great fuel economy, premium cabin.
Cons Small cargo bay, third row is only for kids, low towing capacity.
