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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  Not So Happy - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Duane Berney - January 20 - 9:37 am

  We have had numerous problems with are Acadia. Leaks through the roof onto the head liner, rear wind shield wiper would not turn off for two days, electronic front passenger seat jerks when you adjust it backwards and forwards, and the gas tank is smaller than what I am used to. I took this vehicle on the east coast for work and was not satisfied with its acceleration or its gas mileage. Also if you crack the window when it is raining, the water just pours into the vehicle. Signed, not very satisfied.

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  Angry - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By mebedd - January 18 - 9:56 pm

  When my new Acadia had 1800 miles the check engine light came on. Took it to the dealership and they had to replace the head and both camshafts!! At 2100 miles the check engine light came on. They said the gas cap was loose and even though we repeatedly removed the cap and replaced it, the check engine light would not go off. They had to reprogram the computer to get the light to go off. To compound the misery Im only getting 17-19 mpg with 90% of my driving being on the turnpike using the cruise control! They say they can do nothing about the gas mileage but it should get better around the 10,000 mile mark!!

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  Big changes - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Jean - January 13 - 12:31 am

  I traded in a GMC Z71 4 WD for the 2007 Acadia. It is very different and took some getting used to but I have grown to love it. The only complain that I have is with the leather seats. They are very hard compared to the leather seats in the 2005 GMC truck. They were butter soft and I miss them. Otherwise, this is an awesome vehicle that I feel very safe in.

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  The Best vehicle weve ever had - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Jorge B - January 12 - 7:06 pm

  I recommend this vehicle to anybody whos looking for quality, class, comfort and safety. Plain and simple, the best vehicle weve ever had, ever.

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  Sadly Disappointed - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Bill - January 7 - 9:27 pm

  The head rest are too small and are not comfortable, The AM/FM/OnStar antenna is to tall for a 66" garage- had to modify with nylon wire ties to park in garage. The six speed transmission has a difficult start on ice and snow. First gear is too low and there is no option to start out in second gear. Jerky ride on very bumpy road because of the low gearing. I should have rented this car to evaluate prior to purchase, I would have never have purchased this car.

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  Best Vehicle we have ever owned - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By donny perry - December 31 - 11:19 am

  We traded a 2004 Yukon all wheel drive to get into this Acadia and my wife has never been happier. She loved her Yukon and did not realy want to get rid of it, but after one test drive of the Acadia she was sold, and I can say we could no be happier with the choice we made. I would recommend this ride to anyone that is looking supreme quality when it comes to ride, looks, and style.

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  Finally a GM worth driving - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Eddie K. - December 27 - 9:23 pm

  Have been driving Suburbans, Yukons, Jimmys, Envoys and now the Acadia for over 20 years. Without a doubt, GM finally got it right with this Acadia. Nice and confortable to drive and plenty of gadgets to keep me busy.

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  Great Crossover - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By ronovia - December 22 - 8:46 pm

  Previously owned SUVs are a 1997 Tahoe and a 2000 Mountaineer, and additionally in the past 20 years we have owned vehicles from VW, Ford, Nissan, Volvo, Porche, and BMW. We are very much brand agnostic, so drove every available similar SUV. The Porche wasnt really a consideration, due to price, and wasnt an all around favorite anyway. We really liked Buicks sibling of the Acadia, but the local dealer didnt have one equipped the way we liked. Id have a hard time rating any car a 10 in more than one or two categories, so I consider 9 excellent. This is an excellent all-around vehicle, but although pleasant to drive, I cant say fun-to- drive. Gas mileage has been in the 20 mpg range.

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  Great Family Car - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By mtaylor - December 11 - 1:10 pm

  They have thought of everything when designing this car. The V6 is enough power even with a full 6 passengers. We have the captains chairs which allows kids and adults to easily get to the back seat. The back seat seats 2 adults comfortably or 3 kids. Captain chairs are comfortable.

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  Little giant - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By mike jewell - December 10 - 12:19 am

  It feels like a small swift SUV, but it has plenty of room for everyone to sit comfortable. We traded in a Lincoln Navigator and we are glad we did. Nothing against the Lincoln, but it was getting old 15mpg. we are definitely getting around 21-22mpg. So far very happy