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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  Nearly loaded Denali model - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By SYakov - January 1 - 10:50 pm

  As with any vehicle, your priorities as a buyer are really going to determine if the Acadia is worth your money. I would say the Acadia is not the best if you are looking for a minivan substitute based on lack of creative interior storage (very basic) and cupholders (one per seat basically). The center storage cubby has NO divider or shelf mechanism- its just an empty box which is disappointing. From what Ive seen other similarly priced SUVs like the Pilot and Highlander are far more focused on storage and being minivan alternatives. On the upside, the performance and quietness, ergonomics and visibility are top notch. The handling is very solid and it doesnt feel overweight or tough to maneuver on the road. The HVAC and radio controls are super straightforward and there is little reason to use the manual. If you dont want funky shifters or touch sensitive controls, this is the SUV for you. The downside if that the interior design is a little too basic for such a pricey vehicle. I think there should be more differentiation between the base interior and the Denali interior- it needs more luxury for the money they are charging. All the tech you expect is there, but too much of it is limited to Denali trim which is a mistake and will probably chase away some buyers. GMC really needs to make things like around view camera and adaptive cruise available on lower models. Auto wipers should also be available because they are on the smaller Buick Envision and some other SUVs in this price category. Bottom line, I think this works well if you have 3 kids or less and dont plan on doing lots of long road trips. If you want an SUV because you dont want a minivan, looks elsewhere.

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  Acadia shows GM is back on track - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Jeffrey - December 30 - 8:40 am

  An outstanding presentation by GM! The fit and finish of the Acadia brings GMC to the level of the Asian or Europeans. Attention to detail and the overall driving experience has been outstanding. The capability and size of the Acadia is masked by outstanding agility, fabulous ride, and wonderful driving experience. The second and third row seating ae designed in a manner which is well thought out. Clearly the third row was not an add on as it is in many smaller cross overs. Adjustable seating in the second row is a sign that GM took the overall needs for 7 passengers seriously. Excellent storage space, ergonomics, and overall design.

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  GMC Acadia - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By tsav10 - December 20 - 12:06 am

  So far so good, great vehicle well made. Gas mileage is not very good, but will improve with more miles. Roomy and we love the OnStar.

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  Love my Acadia - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Gary - December 17 - 11:23 pm

  Great value and mileage for such a big vehicle. It does everything I need it to do. I love it. It will turn heads as it looks great

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  Terrific vehicle - love it - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By TerryA - December 16 - 7:35 pm

  I tend to keep my vehicles a while - this replaced a 2007 Pontiac Torrent which at ten years old was still a good vehicle - not flashy or large but dependable. I wanted to upgrade now to something a bit larger and more comfortable. The only thing the same is the color - red. My new ACADIA Denali is a great choice. It handles like a dream (I test drove an equivalent vehicle of another make - that experience was like driving a bathtub full of water). The ACADIAs acceleration is good. Its cornering is superb - considering its size, it is surprising. Braking is great. Front seat comfort is great (heated and air cooled), 2nd row is good (heated), 3rd row is ok for short runs - well probably never use it as a seat. I think the overall size of the 2017 is perfect for us - the larger size of the 2016 would have been too big. It has ample room for our two very large dogs AND luggage. The technology took about 3 minutes to set up so I was comfortable driving home but honestly, most will need at least a few hours with the user manual to utilize all of it. There is a lot there. It is totally keyless - you need the dongle but never have to take it out of your pocket or push any of the buttons on it. If you lock your dongle in the car (hard but could be done) you can unlock it with your smartphone, or for a plan C, call onStar to unlock it for you. Ive only had it a few months and have gotten 18.6 mpg on what has been 90% city driving. As you can tell, I am as excited about this as I was when I got my 2000 Pontiac Bonneville SSEi (turbo) which I still have and which runs as if it were new even though it has 100,000 miles on it. The dogs like the new one a lot better. For trips, because of the roominess, comfort and technology, I do too. For the record, I tried other comparable vehicles and they all felt as if something was missing. If I change my mind, I will update my review but dont hold your breath waiting for it. The combined mileage shown below are for some short trips that included a bit more highway.

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  A Bit Disappointed - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Joydan - December 7 - 7:10 pm

  We traded in a Honda Pilot for the features offered by the Acadia, the primary one being the dual climate control. The particular model we purchased has basically everything, so we are very pleased with that. However, the engine performance is less than desirable and the constant shifting of the transmission, based on changes in the road, etc., especially with the cruise control on, is very annoying. Its as if the transmission and/or engine cant decide how to power the vehicle down the road. Pushing the accelerator slowly doesnt get you much. The gas mileage is high teens, averaging around 18 - not the greatest. Certainly has all the bells and whistles. A very stylish vehicle.

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  Yeah for Acadia! - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Jeri - November 13 - 2:23 pm

  I love this SUV! So roomy and fun to drive. Gas mileage could be better but pretty much what I expected. Love the dual sunroof, the third row seats that lay down flush when needed, and the feel of the drive. Many looks come my way when I drive it and I cant get my husband to drive his truck now! He always wants to drive my Acadia!

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  Well Gone GMC ! - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Brian - November 1 - 10:30 am

  My wife and I are expecting our first child and we looked at every SUV, CUV possible to find one that was reliable and safe for our new addition. As soon as we saw it on the lot, we were in love. Chrome accents against the black and white background made for a shapr looking vehicle. The ride is great and smooth. Engine is plenty powerful. Interior is nicely refined and very quiet. Rear legroom is unrivaled by any other vehicle. Rear sliding seat gives an extra 4 inches if needed for back seat passenger. Not badly priced either.

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  Acadia from a Yukon - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By Scott VanDerhei - October 6 - 8:49 pm

  I knew this car was noisy but didnt realize how noisy until I rode in a low end Subaru that my niece owns. When starting out it whines, my wife says it sounds like I am pulling a cats tail. The highway noise is unbelivable, you might as well have the windows open, in fact at times it howls like there is a window open. The ride is not as good as my 2011 Yukon which was not great, but was a great vehicle. The auto has 4100 miles on it and I am ready to sell it.

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  Better Than A Broomstick for Granny - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By Dorothy J Granger - October 6 - 2:06 am

  Be prepared to be riding high. Be careful turning around curbs, you are not driving a car. The Acadia is a beautiful glorified pickup truck. But its still an awesome ride and a great looking, great driving machine.