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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  Im loving my Acadia! - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By pcz0925 - December 21 - 9:43 pm

  Let me first say that I have never owned any General Motors product and at last count have owned at least a dozen new cars and several used cars. This CUV has chcanged me though - what a vehicle! GM has done their homework and provided the best of SUVs and Minivans in one sharp looking and fun to drive vehicle. Our family is headed out on a spring break vacation so I hope to write more about our impressions from that trip. Look out all other SUVs, CUVs, and minivans - the General has a winnder on their hands!

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  First domestic vehicle in 34 years - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By John Mulligan - December 15 - 7:16 pm

  I have not purchased a new domestic vehicle since my 1974 Camaro SS. The Acadia is the first vehicle since that attracted me enough to make the switch. While the MPG isnt quite where I hoped it would be, I am averaging around 20 mpg with a combo of heavy freeway stop and go traffic. On a recent road trip to Arizona, I averaged about 24mpg, which I was quite satisfied with. I am very happy with this vehicle. For a versatile, all around utility vehicle with style and comfort, I dont think that you can beat it.

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  Best Vehicle Ever - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By John - December 15 - 3:20 am

  GMC Has finally got a product that has it all. Comfort, power, body style, and economy! Have owend less than a month, and have been asked about the Acadia almost daily. First vehicle Ive ever had that I can say is perfect!

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  Great SUV - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Acadia4me - December 6 - 6:13 pm

  5400 miles and I am still loving every moment with it. We are getting about 24 to 26 MPG on long trips and about 18 around town. Tons of room and then some. GM hit the ball out of the park on this one.

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  Overrated - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By Rob - December 5 - 4:45 pm

  Play close attention to that quagmire of AndroidAuto. You MUST plug in your phone every time you enter and exit the vehicle if you want to use AndroidAuto. Designers should be fired.

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  2008 Acadia Review - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Rick - December 2 - 8:30 pm

  Looked at quite a few SUVs, most did not look good, they drove or handled poorly, and majority had really bad gas mileage. Really like this SUV, looks good, handles well, gas mileage not bad at around 22 on road, very smooth ride. All in all, very pleased with the vehicle so far, great family car, especially for long trips.

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  2007 GMC Acadia - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By fino - November 28 - 6:43 pm

  Great ride solid 8 out of 10 for large family. Handles well and is confortable on the frwy. I have been fortunate to drive all new vehicles with full factory warranties. I have purchased them all new and have never had service issues or at least not one I can recall. This is my first GM and its been in 4 times in the first 4 months Ive owned it. The issues are never ending. The time before last I p/u from service and it stalled at the next intersection. I did not know it could be this bad. I have absolutely without doubt have purcheased a lemon. Its presently at the dealer with a long list of issues.

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  Good car from GM - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By stuard - November 28 - 4:46 pm

  We purchased this car after comparison of Pilot and CX-9. Our expectations were exceeded. Family members are very happy with it especially kids. Acadia is very roomy and styling. Ride is quiet and very comfortable.

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  Get On Board - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Robert - November 21 - 11:03 am

  By far the best crossover out there. Great handling with the stabilatrac, not like an SUV that can roll over easily. All the controls are very close. Getting 21 mpg, I think thats great for this vechile. If you dont need AWD get the FWD youll save about 1700 on the price & get 4 mpg more. If you need more MPG than this buy a Yaris.

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  So Far, So Great - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Kelly RN - November 4 - 2:06 am

  This vehicle is the perfect alternative to the dreaded minivan. Great gas mileage. Lots of room for the kids and everything else we tote. Eye catching style. GM finally came out with something Ive been looking for for a long time. So impressed I actually bought this one.