The GMC Acadia has consistently been a popular choice in the competitive mid-size SUV market, and the latest model continues to impress with its blend of practicality and comfort. For families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes and weekend adventures, the Acadia warrants serious consideration. This review delves into the key aspects of the GMC Acadia, providing a comprehensive look at its handling, ride quality, engine performance, interior space, and storage solutions.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
When it comes to navigating corners and winding roads, the GMC Acadia demonstrates commendable handling for its size. The steering system is well-weighted, striking a balance between lightness for easy maneuverability and providing enough resistance to inspire confidence at higher speeds. Drivers will appreciate the natural turn-in feel, making cornering predictable and smooth. Furthermore, the steering offers a degree of feedback, allowing drivers to sense the road surface and tire grip, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Body roll is effectively managed during typical driving scenarios, and the Acadia maintains composure even when traversing uneven road surfaces. However, it’s important to remember that the Acadia is still a substantial SUV. Pushing the pace on twisty roads will remind you of its size and weight. While the vehicle responds adequately to throttle adjustments mid-corner, it’s not designed for sporty driving. Compared to more athletic competitors like the Ford Explorer or Mazda CX-90, the Acadia prioritizes comfort and stability over outright agility.
Alt text: GMC Acadia midsize SUV demonstrating decent handling and cornering ability during a road test, highlighting its maneuverability.
Ride Comfort and Suspension
Comfort is a key attribute of the GMC Acadia, and its suspension tuning reflects this focus. Unlike some SUVs that opt for overly firm setups, GMC has struck a pleasant balance, offering a ride that leans towards the firmer side but remains absorbent when encountering road imperfections. While potholes and road ridges are noticeable within the cabin, they are generally muted, preventing jarring or harsh impacts. Body motion is well-controlled, with minimal side-to-side rocking, a common issue in some SUVs that can lead to passenger discomfort on undulating roads. The Acadia provides a stable and composed ride, contributing to a comfortable experience for both driver and passengers.
Alt text: GMC Acadia providing a relatively comfortable ride absorbing bumps and road imperfections, showcasing its well-tuned suspension for passenger comfort.
Engine Performance: Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
The Acadia’s new turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a robust 328 horsepower, ensuring ample power for a variety of driving situations. This engine is not lacking in grunt, providing confident acceleration and smooth power delivery. The throttle and transmission are well-calibrated, resulting in a predictable and responsive driving experience. Notably, the Acadia avoids the annoying hesitation off-the-line that plagues many modern vehicles, offering immediate power whether starting from a standstill or accelerating from a rolling start.
Gear changes are generally smooth and refined, with upshifts being particularly subtle. Downshifts are adequate but can occasionally feel slightly abrupt. The eight-speed automatic transmission intelligently adapts to driving style and terrain, minimizing low-rpm lugging, a common issue with smaller turbocharged engines. When demanding more power, the transmission responds quickly, downshifting promptly and allowing the engine to deliver strong acceleration. However, it’s undeniable that this is a smaller engine working to propel a relatively heavy vehicle. To achieve rapid acceleration, the engine often needs to rev higher in its range.
Alt text: Close-up of the GMC Acadia’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine, emphasizing its 328 horsepower and efficient performance for a midsize SUV.
Spacious and Comfortable Second-Row Seating
The GMC Acadia excels in passenger comfort, particularly in the second row. Equipped with standard captain’s chairs, the second row offers generous space for occupants. Headroom is abundant, and there’s ample legroom with sufficient space under the front seats for feet. Under-leg support is also well-considered. Both door and inner armrests are thoughtfully positioned, although the door armrest could benefit from thicker padding for enhanced elbow comfort. The seats themselves are relatively flat with minimal contouring, prioritizing ease of movement and overall passenger space, while still offering comfortable padding.
Alt text: Interior view of GMC Acadia showcasing the spacious second-row captain’s chairs, highlighting legroom, headroom, and overall passenger comfort.
Third-Row Seating: Better Than Most
Third-row seats in SUVs are often best suited for children, regardless of vehicle size. However, the GMC Acadia distinguishes itself with a third row that is comparatively roomier and more comfortable than many competitors. A key advantage is the higher bottom cushion, which provides a more natural and comfortable knee bend for adult passengers. Despite this elevated position, headroom remains adequate for average-sized adults. While under-leg support is limited and knee space can be restricted depending on second-row seat positioning, the Acadia’s third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter journeys. The plastic, unpadded outer armrest is a minor drawback, but common in this vehicle class.
Alt text: GMC Acadia third-row seating area, demonstrating its relatively spacious and comfortable design compared to other midsize SUVs, suitable for adults and families.
Interior Storage Solutions
As a family-oriented SUV, the Acadia is well-equipped with numerous interior storage compartments. The center console is intelligently designed, featuring a wireless phone-charging pad that effectively secures phones, along with a convenient bin adjacent to it for additional storage of phones or keys. A large bin is located beneath the center armrest, and an open bin beneath the “floating” center console provides further storage options. While the grippy rubber base in this lower bin is a thoughtful touch, its low position can make accessing items slightly inconvenient, somewhat reducing its overall practicality. Overall, the Acadia offers generous and thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin, catering to the needs of families and passengers.
Alt text: GMC Acadia interior showcasing the well-designed center console, wireless charging pad, and various storage compartments, emphasizing family-friendly practicality.
Conclusion
The GMC Acadia presents itself as a well-rounded mid-size SUV, offering a compelling package of decent handling, a comfortable ride, a potent turbocharged engine, and a spacious interior with usable third-row seating and ample storage. While not the sportiest SUV in its class, the Acadia prioritizes passenger comfort and practicality, making it a strong contender for families seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle for everyday life and beyond.
