Size is no longer an issue for GM customers looking for a 3-row mid-size SUV with the posh GMC touch because the Acadia has undergone a thorough overhaul. Prior to 2017, when both vehicles underwent major redesigns, the wheelbase of the GMC Acadia was reduced by six inches compared to that of the then-larger Chevy Traverse.
The second-generation Acadia benefited slightly from better parking and fuel economy as a result of this divergence but at the expense of reduced cargo room and restricted use of the third row. The 2024 GMC Acadia makes up for those errors and then some, adding to its size with a new powertrain, more luxury, and better technology than before.
Interior
Even on the luxury Denali model, the inside materials of the new Acadia don’t seem or feel particularly opulent, but the room is still ritzier than it was. Due to the cumbersome shift buttons being relocated to a column-mounted shifter, the center console now has more storage space, and there is also extra space underneath the console.
The dashboard is dominated by a 15.0-inch touchscreen that is vertically oriented, in addition to the sharply rendered 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster. The Google-powered infotainment system comes with available apps and both functionalities as standard features. Static HVAC controls with a combination of toggle switches and touch features are also located at the bottom of the central display.
There is a variety of driver-assistance technologies available in every Acadia, and practically all of it is currently standard. There are up to nine external camera views in addition to common safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. There are additional recognition systems for pedestrians and bikers.
The 2017 Acadia is also available with Super Cruise, GM’s hands-free driving assistance system, which is now offered for the first time on the Elevation and AT4 grades.
Exterior
The 2018 Acadia expands in every dimension, to the point where its wheelbase once more matches that of the mechanically similar Chevrolet Traverse and measures 120.9 inches, the same as the one-size-larger Yukon.
Even though the Acadia is still shorter in length and height and narrower to maintain the mobility purchasers expect from a mid-size SUV, that is a major factor in the increased cabin space.
With the 10.6-inch length increase, the third row’s interior volume increases from 12.8 cubic feet to approximately 23 cubic feet or an increase of nearly 80%. That is more room than the 18.2 cubic feet of the Ford Explorer and the 20.6 cubic feet of the Toyota Grand Highlander.
3.2 inches of height (width is undetermined as of writing) and a front row that is 24 percent wider than the second row create class-leading legroom and more roomy seats all around.
Motion sickness is frequently experienced by passengers in the third row of SUVs, which frequently have limited visibility and more dynamic vehicle dynamics due to their position above the rear axle.
With its D-pillar moved further back and beltline lowered, the 2024 Acadia has a wider rear quarter window and a less submarine-like appearance to those looking out of it.
Performance
Previously, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged, and the 3.6-liter V-6 engines were available for the Acadia. The V-6 produced 310 horses and 270 pound-feet of torque, while the four-pot produced 228 horses and 258 pound-feet.
Now, every Acadia features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that is much more powerful. It has 328 hp and 326 pound-feet of torque. GMC hasn’t yet provided figures for the new Acadia powertrain’s fuel economy.
The Acadia still provides front- or all-wheel drive, but the former nine-speed automatic transmission has been replaced by an eight-speed one. Either arrangement can tow up to 5000 pounds, an increase of 1000–1700 pounds over the previous configuration.
The AT4 variant, which is designed for off-road use, also boasts a unique all-wheel drive system with a twin-clutch rear axle.
The AT4 is slightly taller than other Acadia models, which are already 3.4 inches taller than those that came before them.
18-inch wheels with Goodyear Wrangler Territory all-terrain rubber and a specifically adjusted suspension are two further distinctive AT4 features. Red front tow hooks, a lower front skid plate, and plastic over fenders with orange reflectors on top are other characteristics of the toughest Acadia.
The Denali version of the Acadia will be easy to spot. It not only has a dazzling grille (now satin rather than chrome) and glossy black lower body trim, but it can also be had with sizable 22-inch wheels, whereas 20-inch wheels were previously the largest choice.
The Acadia Denali’s interior has heated and ventilated front seats, laser-etched wood trim, chrome highlights, and leather upholstery. Although a 16-speaker Bose stereo is an option, a 12-speaker stereo is the standard. The second-row heated seats and the enormous panoramic sunroof are similar.
The price of the 2024 Acadia has not yet been disclosed by GMC, but it will before the vehicle goes on sale early next year. If we were to hazard an estimate, we’d say the entry-level Elevation will cost somewhat less than $40K, and the top-of-the-line Denali will top $50,000.