Overview & Reviews

Building tough trucks for tough work has been the focus of GMC for years, but even GMC couldn't avoid the onslaught of the crossover SUV revolution. That's where the GMC Acadia comes in.

The Acadia is a large crossover SUV. Mechanically, it's very similar to its platform-mates -- the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and now-discontinued Saturn Outlook. Thanks to its spacious interior, strong V6 engine and competitive price, the Acadia is one of the better crossover SUV choices. Although there were styling updates and a few other minor changes made for 2013, shoppers should know that Acadias from any year share most of the same pros and cons.

Current GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia is a large crossover SUV that's offered in five trims: SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT-1, SLT-2 and Denali. Each comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that makes 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is an option. Although even the base SLE-1 is fairly well-equipped, moving up through the trims brings luxuries such as Bluetooth phone connectivity, leather upholstery, heated seats, a navigation system, smartphone app integration and a panoramic sunroof.

The GMC Acadia is one of the roomiest crossover utility vehicles in its class, with seating for up to eight passengers. The second-row seats are captain's chairs, but a 60/40-split-folding bench is available as an option. Those second-row seats also slide 4 inches fore and aft and easily flip up and out of the way for access to the third-row seats. There's room for adults in the back two rows, though leg support is a bit lacking. With both the second and third rows folded down, the Acadia's substantial cargo space is topped only by minivans and extra-large SUVs like the Chevy Suburban.

In our road tests we've found the Acadia's handling respectable, especially considering the vehicle's large size, and its buttoned-down and quiet ride is particularly impressive. The V6 won't blow you away with its power, but it moves the Acadia out with decent authority. Overall, our editors feel that the GMC Acadia represents a compelling combination of functionality, luxury and value.

Used GMC Acadia Models
The GMC Acadia debuted for the 2007 model year. Its 3.6-liter V6 lacked direct injection until 2009, and hence was rated at a slightly lower 275 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque for its first two years of production. The transmission was reprogrammed for 2010 to address previous complaints of sluggish downshift response. That year also saw new features like Bluetooth connectivity, real-time traffic updates for the navigation system, and available heated and ventilated seats. The plush Denali trim debuted the following year.

For 2013, GMC heavily updated the Acadia. Changes included refreshed front and rear styling, improved interior materials and a new front-center airbag as well as larger, easier-to-use controls for the audio, climate and navigation systems. This year also brought GM's IntelliLink system, with its smartphone integration capability, as well as a slight shuffling of equipment and trim levels.

User Reviews:

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  More Than I Expected! - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Patrick Obi - November 8 - 7:10 am

  I am a BMW fanatic, however, I decided to take a look at the GMC Acadia and I was pleasantly surprised! Amazingly, doing 60 MPH feels like you are still around 35. It is a very solid and smooth crossover vehicle.

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  Great - 2010 GMC Acadia
  By Martin - November 3 - 7:29 pm

  Ok 1st The whole thing about it rolling back only happens on the FWD version. this is not a defect. I test drover the fwd and loved it. 2nd i got awd because i have a cabin in the mountains nearby. the vehicle is really roomy and has a great powertrain. The Bose system is great. The display panels look great. very decent acceleration when needed. 288 HP pushes 3196lbs easily. If you are looking for something roomy and made with quality workmanship this would be a great family vehicle. This vehicle will grow with your growing family. seats 8 ot 7 if you opt for captains chairs in the second row. Enjoy.

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  One Month Review! Love it! - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Michael McCauley - November 3 - 3:33 am

  Bought on July 4, 2007, it is now Aug 7. Compared many cars including very expensive imports like Lexus and Infiniti. This car doesnt look too large but IT IS!! Heavy! Safe!! You can carry a lot! Bought the most expensive model. This is a wonderful car! Does not lean in turns like our old SUV. No problems at all so far. Did not notice the glare (other reviewers). This car has many premium features, see some below. It all works just fine, at a reasonable price, too! Just ecstatic about this purchase, recommend this car highly!

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  EXCELLENT CHOICE IN CROSSOVERS - 2009 GMC Acadia
  By krishnameee - October 31 - 9:05 pm

  I have been throughly stunned at the ride of this crossover. Pricey but worth the money. GM needs to look at some extras to keep the customers happy like seat memory standard on SLTs. Turning radius and fuel efficiency was very good. I topped at 27 MPG at 59 MPH freeway. I have driven about 400 miles so far and very satisfied

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  No wonder GM went bankrupt - 2009 GMC Acadia
  By Dan - October 31 - 2:37 pm

  Weve had the car for about a year and a half. Put plenty of miles on it. It breaks every month. Its been back to the dealer 16 times since weve had it. Leaks, trans problems, failed water pump, electrical problems, brake problems, rear hatch lifters, etc. Whenever I see someone who has put all 10s in their edmunds review, I immediately discount those reviews as someone who is congratulating themselves for a purchase, rather than reviewing a car. The amount of lemon law lawsuits over the Acadia is stunning. Too bad actually, because this could have been a great car, but unfortunately, GM has too many problems as a company to take care of their customers.

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  Exactly What I Wanted - 2010 GMC Acadia
  By Very Pleased - October 28 - 1:12 pm

  I’m very pleased thus far. Easy to park, feels to be the right size overall. I have only 900 miles on it so far, took one long trip (700 miles) up & down desert mountain Interstates at 75-80MPH and averaged 22MPG. On a local freeway, mostly level at 70-75 I saw a high of 26MPG but mostly 24+ so as they say “Your mileage may vary.” Engine & transmission work very well. If you nail the throttle getting on the freeway and let the engine/trans do their thing, there’s plenty of power to get on the freeway that may result in a big ticket. The dash & controls are laid out very well. I have found no flaws in the paint or trim fit. I am very pleased & will update when I get more miles on it.

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  One Great Ride - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By rjzawislak - October 24 - 9:43 am

  Really a great vehicle. Beyond my expectations. GM is finally getting it right. Should have no problem getting market share back from Toyota!

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  Roll Tide OnThis One - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By CARL4TIDE - October 24 - 7:43 am

  I have owned many vehicles in the past 10 years and Ive never been more giddy over a purchase as I am today. I absolutely love the Acadia SLT 2. Got every feature possible except the heads up display which I thought might just annoy me to be honest. Driving around in town the on board computer calculates mpg at around 18-20 so far and they are usually pretty accurate. Didnt hurt any that I bought it on the GM plan for retired GM employees - thanks grandad - and saved a bundle. Handles great, looks awesome, comfortable, a real head turner so far. Plan to get the chrome step rails asap

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  Acadia a great car - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By kingadrock - October 22 - 7:49 pm

  This is a really great car in the crossover market. Owned it now for a year with no problems. Its like getting mini van comfort and size with SUV styling and performance. Perfect for our family of four with two little ones and our heaps of stuff we seem to need to take everywhere.

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  Updated Review - 2009 GMC Acadia
  By Geoff Chamberlain - October 20 - 7:41 am

  Just a quick update on our ownership expierience so far.We are happy with our Acadia and the nit picks are very few ( and minor ).I just put on the winter tires , Bridgestone Blizzaks ,fuel milage is getting better with more miles on the vehicle,great on long trips,kids love it,better sound system should be standard for the price,effortless to drive on the highway (120 km/h)very quiet inside.