GMC Acadia Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.09/5 Average
729 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 371 through 380 of 729.00
  • Best of the best - 2008 GMC Acadia
    By -

    Look good in and out fully loaded. We had 21.9 mpg from Denver to Colorado Springs, 2 adults 2 children one two years old one 4 months and about 150 pounds of luggage that was 5 months ago. We have now 17 mpg for 90% city and 10% high, no shifting problem is not a sport car it is a big (suv cuv van) but not a sport car. We just love it.

  • very pleased - 2009 GMC Acadia
    By -

    We replaced our 2002 Honda Odyssey with a 2009 Acadia in December. We have put 1,500 miles on it and have had no problems. 24.4 mpg on a recent highway trip. Pulls our small camper very well. The only negative is rear visbility when backing up.

  • GMC Acadia is a winner - 2007 GMC Acadia
    By -

    Took delivery on Feb 9, 2007 and 2 weeks later left for 5 week vaction in Florida. Drove 4617 miles and got 19.83 mpg. Not too bad for vehicle this size in very heavy Florida traffic. About 22 mpg on the highway according to computer. Was considering a van but am extremely happy I choose an Arcadia. GM has definitly got a hit with this vehicle. Highly recommend at least a look.

  • So far so good - 2009 GMC Acadia
    By -

    I just bought the Acadia but so far I absolutely love this vehicle! I traded in a Honda CRV because I wanted more room. I love the way this truck handles and its so comfortable to sit in / drive. Its amazing how much space there really is on the inside. Its very deceiving from the outside.

  • The good and bad - 2008 GMC Acadia
    By -

    Pros: Good Space and Featurues. Seats 7 Remote Start Heads up Display Drives well - After the transmission recall to adjust the shifting. Cons: Bad Sunroof! They have had severe problems with them leaking. I took mine back 4 times and it still leaked. Even after the GM recall work. They gave me a rental car and the rental person told me I was the 3rd leaking Acadia rental that week. Leather - Not as good as competitors. Doesnt wear well. Chrome Interior - Can blind you if the sun hits it right.

  • Proud New Owner - 2007 GMC Acadia
    By -

    I feel a little guilty being so excited about a vehicle! I got the carbon metallic w/ titanium leather - fully loaded. I traded in a 2004 Acura MDX, nice car - but never drove as comfortably as my Acadia. Its like GMC took all the features in my MDX - and improved on every one. Its very practical, convenient and handsome. My Acura was the first non American car I ever bought. Im proud to be back! Grandkids have dubbed it my Nana-Mobile!

  • 17 Acadia SLT1 test drive - 2017 GMC Acadia
    By -

    Coming from a 2006 Envoy this new size is about the same and perfect size. I would not consider buying the original Acadia five years ago b/c it is huge and heavy. So I kept the troublefree Envoy. But GMC is now back in the mid size game... I expect to be buying.

  • Beware the Acadia, you will be sorry - 2008 GMC Acadia
    By -

    We bought the Acadia after several good runs with the Yukon and Suburban vehicles. It is attractive and has ample room inside. But the FLAWS, my God. Cruise control failure in a module that kills the tail lights sun roof leaks that short out the electrical systems cheap PLASTIC everywhere inside. Poor visibility for parking front and rear. Ours has been in and out of the dealership MANY times total time in shop in excess of 26 days since brand new. Not only can we NOT recommend an Acadia, we likely will never again purchase from GMC. Very little assistance from the base level to the top there is a REASON GM is going BROKE--they are cranking out JUNK. Thousands of Acadias on lots.

  • Happy - 2008 GMC Acadia
    By -

    I kept my old car for 12 years waiting for a car I liked. Loved the look of the Acadia when it came out so I researched it thoroughly and test drove it before purchasing the 2008 SLT 2 AWD in 2007(no DVD or Nav). I love it. My family of four drove from NJ to NC last summer, filled to capacity w/the cruise control on--22 mpg...not bad. I feel very safe driving this car at night. Headlights/fog lights really illuminate the road. The dome lights stay lit entering and exiting and the headlights, taillights and backup lights stay lit as well, giving full view around the car. Great in the snow and ice too--even on inclines and declines.

  • Perfect - 2009 GMC Acadia
    By -

    we liked everything about this vehicle. I rides just a bit harder than thee Enclave, but after owning a dodge Durango for five years we kind of liked a little bit of the truck/suv feel to it. We had to purchase a one year extended warranty to extend the life of the loan out to 72 months instead of 60, and also built into the loan dvd players in the head rest of the two front seat the come with wireless headsets for $1,650. This will keep the kids from fighting more.

GMC Acadia Reviews By Year:
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