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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  Acadia looks Great but shifts poorly - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By roger baiers - October 1 - 8:40 am

  The Acadia was a Christmas gift for my wife. She fell in love with the looks so we never test drove prior to delivery. We are satisfied with the vehicle except for the 6 speed transmission. In moderately hilly driving the transmission changes gears from 3-4-5 constantly. The shifts happen after the vehicle slows down 5- 10 MPH and then the engine speeds up from 1800 RPMs to 3500 RPMs to bring the vehicle back to the speed desired. The shifts are herky jerky and to date the dealer and calls to GM Customer Care has brought about the same response, "That is the way they are". The software developers should drive the vehicles in various road conditions and go back to the drawing board.

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  2016 basically a mildly updated 2012 - 2016 GMC Acadia
  By Jay Walt - September 22 - 2:05 pm

  If you have and like an Acadia with Denali trim, this is a face lifted model with a few improvements. Better daytime LED lights, joystick adjustable steering column, usb charging ports, Lane shift and "approaching too fast" alerts are biggest noticeable changes. Slightly more rounded at corners with more trim under front and rear bumpers. Same engine, towing, etc. But - Dont wait for 2017 models if you like this model. 700lbs lighter, shorter wheelbase, 1200lbs LESS towing capacity...it will be an Acadia in name only. Gotta love the GM "Braintrust". Kill the Trailblazer...kill the Acadia....kill the Envoy....and give us vehicles that will ride worse, have less interior room, and tow small fishing boats....and PAY THE SAME!

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  Too many repairs - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Never buy GM again - September 12 - 3:40 am

  Worst car I have ever owned, transmission and engine went out, car leaked water into passenger area front to back. Had to sell after new transmission and engine with less than 110,000 miles. $45,000 car, plus addition $10,000 in repairs.

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  Careful driving at NIGHT - 2017 GMC Acadia
  By Thomas Santoro - September 10 - 10:10 pm

  I bought this vehicle after one test drive. I was pretty much sold on the 2017 Honda Pilot. The new 2017 Acadia changed my mind quickly. I never expected one vehicle would satisfy me like this. HOWEVER, driving at night was a different story. Horrible! I cannot believe "Professional Grade" would illuminate the road so poorly. Maybe, a recall is in order. I do not do much driving at night, BUT I would expect the lighting would match the rest of the vehicle.

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  Best vehicle owned - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Jeremy - August 1 - 1:10 pm

  Just took a 1300 mile round trip with the Acadia filled with 3 people, the dog and all our luggage, etc. Drove through pouring rain and up north through the mountains and never skipped a beat. Best part - avg over 22 mpg round trip driving about 75 on interstate and varying through 2 lane mountain roads. Very good family vehicle!!

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  Love it - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By ANGELA - July 22 - 1:20 am

  Have had the Acadia since May and have nothing bad to say about it. It has a very smooth ride, very roomy (we have 3 kids; ages 2-8 years, and 2 dogs). We have been getting pretty good gas mileage for the size of the vehicle, we average just over 22 mpg. We have gotten up to 28 driving up-north. We love it so much, 2 of our friends went out and bought Acadias

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  Love the Car - Not the Performance - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Zplnfan - July 21 - 8:46 pm

  First let me say that I absolutely love my Acadia - but hate the performance and mileage. I thoroughly researched and special ordered one. I have to admit that I did not heed prior reviewers warnings about the mileage and the sluggish transmission, so I take responsibility for my disappointment. I test drove 4 different Acadias and rented one for a weekend and never experienced nearly as bad mileage or the very sluggish response when it is needed most. The closest I can compare it to is a clogged air filter or fuel line. I had it checked and was told it was operating perfectly. If mileage and performance are high on your priority list, you should look elsewhere. If not, youll love this car!

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  Great car - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Jim Hoekzema - July 19 - 1:10 pm

  I was very impresed with this car! It drives like a car not a truck. I traded in my 06 Lincoln T.C. and it rides as good or better.

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  Acadia mpg 17-24? - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Acadiaowner - June 29 - 9:13 pm

  Saw the Acadia at a car show first. Was and still impressed with comfort features and looks of this car. Will be a great car to take on vacations and other trips. I have not really tested the performance of car due to the fact it is not fully broken in. With the 275 hp I am sure it will have plenty power. I am very disappointed in the gas mileage that the car gets. 16.2 is the best Ive recorded and thats 95% hwy driving and driving at 65 mph nowhere near the window sticker estimate of 17 city and 24 hwy. Any answers GM? I have a feeling the mpg wont improve much even after 10K miles. Compared to my Murano I traded the room is much better but I miss the fuel economy of the Murano. Overall GM did a great job on this crossover I would recommend it to friends.

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  My Acadia - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By RoadGlide55 - May 3 - 5:06 pm

  This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. The handling is superb in all weather, with outstanding styling, visibility and comfort it is a true joy to drive. I went from a 4wd Super Crew pickup from another manufacturer, that I truly loved, to the Acadia and have never regreted my decision. What an awesome vehicle. I am constantly getting comments on it and everyone who has ridden in it is impressed with its options and ride. Thanks GMC for coming up with a true winner.