What's the Difference Between The Acadia SLT and SLE?
Comparing the SLE and SLT: Features, Value, and Performance at GMC Of Riverfront Park
The GMC Acadia SLE and SLT have a lot going for them, which is part of what makes choosing between the two a little tough. Both are three-row SUVs with seating for up to seven, available all-wheel drive, and the same engine choices. Once you start looking at the equipment, though, the SLT begins to separate itself from the SLE.
That extra equipment is mostly centered around comfort and convenience. And when shopping for a used 2023 Acadia, there’s another piece to consider: an SLE with the right factory packages can have considerably more equipment than a base model.
Pricing and Value: Where the SLE and SLT Separate
The SLE is the less expensive of the two trims in the 2023 Acadia lineup. It gives families the three rows and versatility they’re looking for while leaving room in the budget for selected options. The SLT costs more because more features are included from the beginning. That can be appealing when certain upgrades are already on the must-have list. The SLE was available with equipment packages, so the badge alone doesn't tell you everything about what a particular vehicle has.
Interior Features: The SLT Puts More Into the Cabin
The SLE uses premium cloth seating, while the SLT upgrades to leather-appointed seating and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Both give you three rows and room for up to seven.
The SLT also brings heated front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control into the standard equipment. Depending on how a vehicle was equipped, heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row outboard seats may be available, too. For a vehicle that may spend plenty of time carrying kids, coworkers, friends, or a full load of groceries, little conveniences like these can get a lot of use.
Technology: What Does Each Acadia Trim Include?
The basic infotainment setup is shared between the two trims (e.g. 8-inch GMC infotainment system, wireless Android Auto capability, wireless Apple CarPlay). Navigation is where the standard equipment changes. It was available on the SLE but standard on the SLT. The SLE could also be equipped with the Infotainment Package, which added navigation and a Bose premium audio system.
That last point is worth remembering when comparing used vehicles. An SLE equipped with the right package may have the technology setup that a shopper wants without moving to an SLT.
Performance: The Same Engines Are Available
There isn't a big performance divide between the two trims. Both start with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder making 228 horsepower. The available 3.6L V6 brings 310 horsepower, and both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
All-wheel drive is available, while the Traction Select System is available on the SLE and standard on the SLT. The system provides selectable driving modes for different road conditions. For anyone deciding between these trims based primarily on what's under the hood, the choice is pretty straightforward: the SLT doesn't give you a separate engine lineup.
Safety: Strong Equipment Across the Lineup
The 2023 Acadia came with GMC Pro Safety Plus as standard equipment on both the SLE and SLT. That package came with:
- Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- IntelliBeam automatic high beams
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Alert
- Front Pedestrian Braking
The SLT also has a Safety Alert Seat that makes the driver seat vibrate as a warning. So, while the SLT has an extra safety-related feature, the SLE already comes with a substantial group of driver-assistance features.
Choosing the Right Acadia Trim
The SLE gives you the Acadia's three-row cabin, available all-wheel drive, the same engine choices as the SLT, and a useful selection of standard technology and safety features. Adding a package can fill in some of the gaps. The SLT takes care of more of those upgrades at the trim level. Leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, standard navigation, and other convenience features give it a more upscale feel.
For a used Acadia, the best comparison may come down to two specific vehicles sitting side by side. Look at the equipment, check the options, and spend some time in the cabin. An SLE may have everything needed, while an SLT may have a few extras that make daily driving more enjoyable.
At GMC of Riverfront Park, we’ll help you compare available Acadia models, go over their equipment, and arrange a test drive.
One thing to note: GMC changed the Acadia lineup for 2024. The current model doesn't use the SLE and SLT names, so those trim designations apply to earlier model years, including 2023.
GMC of Riverfront Park
Address: E 636 SPRAGUE AVE, SPOKANE, WA 99202
Sales Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Service & Parts Hours:
Monday - Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday - Sunday: Closed
Phone: (509) 209-9966