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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  Love it - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By cec - June 15 - 3:50 pm

  I drive approx 100 mi per day as a delivery vehicle, lots of idleing time, and average 15 mpg. Thats OK for a 4500 lb comfortable vehicle. Can hardly wait to go on a trip. The chrome dash ac vents reflect in the rear view mirror and is somewhat distracting.

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  Too many service visits. - 2016 GMC Acadia
  By Bill Branzell - May 17 - 2:54 pm

  I like my 2016 Acadia Denali, but I have spent way too much time at the dealers service dept. Yes it is all covered under warranty, but it is a hassle to make time to get to the dealer..... 3000 miles in 7 weeks and I have had it into the service dept. 5 times. 1) & 2) Parked my new $50,000 SUV in my garage and noticed window washer fluid leaking out onto the floor. Took it to the dealer they couldnt find it. Rose hell and took it to the dealer again. they found the leak and fixed it. 3) check engine light, new gas cap, problem solved. 4) one week later check engine light again. Replaced some pressure sensor (emissions related), problem solved. 5) Side mouldings on both drivers doors is falling off. To the dealer again.

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  Our pick of many - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Anne P. McLaughlin - May 17 - 12:16 am

  At first the vehicle seemed a little big after getting out of our Honda van. It was not long before it was a pleasure to get in and drive away. Mileage however is not the best brag. Even with gas as high as it is today the Acadia is staying right here at home, mileage or no mileage. We have found it to be an excellent buy.

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  Love it - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Love It - May 3 - 1:40 am

  6000 Miles down and we love this vehicle. We moved from a minivan to this and what a difference. We have the White Diamond color with the Brick interior. It is really an eye catcher. We have had repeated compliments on the car. It is very nice looking. Ride quality is good, fuel economy fine, and we have found this car to be the most comfortable weve ever had. We took it on a 2000 mile road trip and I have never felt as relaxed driving long distance nor did I feel over tired after 8-10 hours of driving. The car has great handling and feels smaller than it is. Highly recommended. The only thing we havent tested is snow performance. Im curious how it will handle.

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  Love it. - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By kh - April 17 - 7:00 am

  After years of driving a Suburban, I am giving this new Acadia a try. So far I love it. I find it so solid with a great ride and its the nicest car I have ever driven (nicer than my husbands Merecedes even). I am happy with the improved gas mileage. I am excited about the fold flat 3rd row.Too many impressive things to list. I hope this works out because I am in love.

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  Not what I wanted, or expected - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By T - April 16 - 9:37 pm

  I was previously leasing a 2014 Acadia SLT-2 and when my lease came to an end, I was backed into a corner with limitations on car choices. I tested the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Chevy Traverse and Buick Enclave, and, of course, the 2017 Acadia. With my previous Acadia, I had it all! Perfect size, captain chairs in the second row, and I could fit 7 pieces of decent sized luggage behind the upright third row! Gas mileage was poor, but I didnt let that bother me at all. The only reason why I chose the new Acadia over all the others is solely based on the perks I obtained from sticking with GMC. I felt pressured. My lease was beyond its expiration and I was running out of time. I made a blind decision and now I will be paying for it for the next three years. Upon the initial test drive, I thought it was a smooth ride and easy to maneuver over my previous Acadia. I almost wish that dealerships would let you test a car for a few days or even a week before deciding! My biggest complaints are: How low this vehicle sits! I also have a 2017 Nissan Rogue, and that sits higher than the Acadia. Also, the whining noise when accelerating. The storage is awful! I have to fit my sons stroller in at an angle with the third row up. With the stroller in behind the third row, I have to leave the third row up because thats where I place all other belongings because they simply wont fit! I have had this car for almost 6 months and I am in the heart of winter here in Upstate New York and this vehicle is worthless in snow, even in 4 wheel drive. The weight loss of this vehicle really shows even in the lightest of snow. Just spins and spins at stop lights, and I find it annoying that I have to put the vehicle into 4 wheel drive JUST to make it through a snowy intersection. UNACCEPTABLE! I honestly wish I spent the 50k and BOUGHT the Acadia Limited, or went with the Ford Explorer. Cannot wait to dump this vehicle.

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  Love my Acadia - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By EP - April 5 - 5:20 pm

  Best vehicle I have ever owned. It is so comfortable especially on a long trip. It handles like a champ. If you want more plush look at Enclave as well. Friend sold his Lexus for Enclave after driving my Acadia and loves his too. No regrets.

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  Love the size, but... - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Lynn Taylor - April 4 - 5:53 am

  I like my Acadia AWD, but it does have some drawbacks. The gas mileage is no where near what it should be. I bought the vehicle thinking that the gas mileage was a bit better than my previous SUV 4wd, but it isnt. The continuous shifting on the CVT transmission eats gas. Another problem is the vehicle is extremely difficult to backup. There are many blind spots in this vehicle that should be looked at. If a small car comes up behind you and you can only see the roof, there is a definite problem. There are also blind spots where the front seats and door jams meet causing a big blind spot when looking out the passenger side window. I do like the size and comfort of the vehicle.

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  If you like playing CDs dont buy an a new Acadia - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By Will - April 1 - 6:46 am

  $1,000 dollar option on the radio, 8 inch screen and Bose Sound System, but does not have a "CD Player, what a disappointment

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  I like it - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Acadia Owner - March 6 - 8:13 am

  I turned in my Infiniti G35 coupe after a 4 year lease and leased the Acadia. I am very pleased with it. I have only owned one other SUV and it was an Infiniti which I also liked a lot. I am enjoying the configuration of my Acadia (I have 2 rows of bucket seats and a bench seat), the ease of handling, the amenities, and the great interior. I am very pleased with my car/truck and I think it will pass the test of time.