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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  2008 SLT-2 AWD - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By NYUnderground - April 4 - 11:50 am

  As Im sure most of you did, researched extensively prior to purchasing a new 2008 Acadia SLT-2 AWD. Options: DVD Entertainment, Twin Sunroofs, Tow Package and 2nd row bench seats.We traded in our 05 Accord to get something bigger after the addition of our 2nd child and I am really glad we chose the Acadia. After driving and looking at at least 10 cars in this very over croweded (gd for consumers) market segment we decided on the Acadia becasue of its looks, feel and overall comfort.My wife has never driven an SUV before but is able to drive this cross- over with ease, although backing up (even with parking assist) is still a challenge.

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  Go U.S.A. - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Sue D. Phakia - March 31 - 8:20 pm

  I am so happy with my choice for the Acadia. I looked at Lexus, Acura MDX, Honda Pilot, and related vehicles. This Acadia has it all over the foreigners. I am proud that I can support my own country now, and have a great vehicle.

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  Fun Ride - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Marcella - March 24 - 8:03 pm

  I reviewed and searched for the perfect crossover and I found it in the GMC Acadia. I had an Acura MDX and it was giving me mechanical problems. I said I would never purchase an American car. GMC has changed our minds! We have always purchased foreign and the GMC line has really turned us around. Thanks GMC for a wonderful ride that turns heads as well as makes us smile. My daughter loves lookingt through the 2nd row sun roof especially at night and watching her long awaited DVD player. My in-laws love that we can have them along since it seats 6 comforably and 7 with a small child on the third row. Only will trade for a new one. Its everything I thought it would be and more. Thanks GMC!

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  First time GMC owner - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Jeff C. in San Diego - March 24 - 3:13 am

  After looking at every make and model of 7 passenger SUVs and Minivans my wife and I quickly narowed it down to the Acadia. This is our first "American" badged vehicle and have to say that we are both impressed. Ours was purchased in Nov 07 and with the exception of a leaky sunroof (fixed under warranty) we have had no problems during its first 7500 miles driven. The May 08 transmission reflash was done two months ago and did wonders for the everyday drivability of the car.

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  Best Choice for a Family - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By TNcarman - March 13 - 7:20 am

  I just bought this car for my wife. Carbon Metallic with Ebony Leather, the DVD player and dual sunroofs, everything is on it. I have to say the car is great. Tows well, drives like a car, and my wife loves it. No doubt it will be in my garage for another 5+ years. If crossovers/SUVs are what you are looking for, just dont bother and buy this car.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By JP - March 10 - 8:53 pm

  Really enjoy the comfort and features of the Acadia. Only complaint is the transmission could be smoother, a problem I anticipate them fixing for the next model year. The leather seats are very comfortable. The suspension is very smooth. Highly recommend the parking assist.

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  Great Crossover - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Mike - February 21 - 3:00 am

  Purchased approximately two weeks ago, so far not disappointed at all. Interior design is excellent but I have also noticed the glare on the A/C vents mentioned in other reviews but not a serious issue for me. The motor and transmission are extremely smooth and I dont have any problems with the six speed, it wants to get into 5-6 gears as quick as possible but a slight tap on the accelerator down shifts it quickly. Mileage overall is aveaging about 18.5 mpg in a blend of 50% city/highway. A 100 mile interstate trip did deliver 22 and I averaged 75 mph. You cant do that in my 03 Tahoe which I traded.

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  A Great Crossover SUV - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Hung - February 20 - 11:00 am

  I have been driving about three months with over 2000 miles on it. Prior purchasing my Acadia, I have also considered Hondas Pilot and Oddysey on this same year. I love Acadias design, very comfortable. Many useful features on SLT1 vs. SLE model. Gas mileage seems to be more than what it said. My average combined city/highway mileage is 19 mi/g. I did take a long hours trip without stop and traffic. Highway mileage was about 24-25 mi/g. In city or during rush hour traffic, I could get upto 15- 16 mi/g. I really enjoy when driving my Acadia. Comfortable, quiete, sporty feel young compared to minivan.

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  Updated to new car - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Sandra Swan - February 17 - 1:30 pm

  I simply cannont tell in words how much fun it is to drive this car. I have been a faithful Chevy Blazer driver since 1995 with the same car! Coming from that car to this car gas wasnt an issue. I love all the cargo space and easy to use features. Remote start is a wonderful feature when it is cold outside and your car is warming for you. It is easier to drive in the wind it doesnt blow me around as much. I couldnt think of a better car to come over too if you are a Blazer, Tahoe or other SUV owner without the need for towing. I highly recommend this car to anyone.

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  Love It - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By muskokaeva - January 12 - 9:50 am

  Mom of two looking for a better handling and more powerful vehicle than my past Buick Rendezvous, not too hard to do! This CUV is a welcome change at GMC, great styling, super interior space, airbag nirvana, smooth 6 speed, dead quiet interior. Like the big Benzes, beautiful fit and finish. The AWD performs admirably and the cars weight gives it nice authority on the road. Fabulous value for the money, in the SLE version with the four wheel drive, big engine 275hp, proper 18 inch wheels. Avoid the 19s, they arent mated to this vehicle properly. Buy yourself some nice rims if you feel cheated! Drive it, itll give the Japanese a run for their money.