It's a question many of us struggle with when it's time to buy a new car: 'Why would I choose this one over the other?' You've done your research, had a couple of test drives, yet aside from price there really isn't much difference, especially in the crossover and full SUV segment. You need space, an elevated driving position, a bit of power under the bonnet and Bob's your uncle, so why shop around? There are a few major reasons why we think this week's test drive, the GMC Acadia (in our case the premium Denali version) is worth a look, so sit back and relax as we walk you through them.

Cost and resale
The starting price for the GMC Acadia is Dhs129,900 and the Acadia Denali goes from Dhs199,901. Now, they're not the cheapest out there, we are aware. However, a factor we always overlook is resale value. Across the board it is stated by major websites including bankrate.com and driving.ca that the GMC brand holds on average around 60 per cent of its value after 36 months. Cheatsheet.com even places the Acadia in its top ten value resale buys. Moving soon? It's worth thinking about.

Premium specs
If you're looking at the Acadia you may as well have a look at the Acadia Denali -the upsell is worth listening too. For the extra money, you get a better looking car, attractive trim accents and luxurious surroundings that are "very Dubai". The six-spoke wheels and chrome highlights are definitely more Jay-Z than 'school-run Stan'. We also liked the French-stitched seats. They definitely made the occupants slightly more aloof, so there must be something in it. In the Denali you can fit seven too.

What's driving it?
You are, obviously. Despite the sensors and cameras, you're still wholly in charge of this one. Up front, the engine you have to tame is a 3.6-litre V6 which produces 310hp. The 0-100km/h times are pretty much irrelevant if you're looking at this type of car, but we will mention that the All Terrain system is good. It remains a front drive car but has the option in AWD models to of 2x4 (AWD disconnect), 4x4, Sport, Off Road and Trailer/Tow modes.

Safety first
You get a truck load of features with this one, which may make all the difference, particularly if you're one of those people who has a small boat parked on a trailer in a patch of sand next to their villa. These include:
· Forward Automatic Braking (available on Denali)
· Following Distance Indicator
· Surround Vision camera system
· Forward Collision Alert
The Tow Vision Trailering system helps make hitching easier by employing a rear-vision camera, with dynamic guidelines, to help line up the Acadia's hitch with the trailer, as well as offering views of the trailer while driving.

Conclusion: So there you have it. Summing up the car, we think, if you've got a big family and extra cash to spare, the Denali is probably the model for you

Source: Khaleej Times