FYI: The 2020 GMC Acadia AT4 is hitting the market, balancing rugged aesthetics with practical features for the multifaceted needs of modern families.
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### GMC Acadia AT4: A Crossover That Bridges Luxury and Adventure
In today’s automotive landscape, profitability is often prioritized over diversity, leading many automakers to focus heavily on trucks and crossovers to maximize earnings. Take a walk through FCA’s Ram and Jeep showrooms, and you’ll see this trend in action. General Motors’ GMC brand also epitomizes this strategy, offering a lineup devoid of traditional cars but rich with durable body-on-frame products built to withstand tough conditions.
However, the market demands more than just a lineup of trucks and SUVs. Some consumers seek the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle combined with the reliability needed for everyday tasks like school runs. Enter the AT4 trim level—a robust package designed to meld GMC’s professional, upscale image with the needs of off-road enthusiasts. The 2020 GMC Acadia AT4 is the latest addition to this growing family.
### Positioning the AT4
The AT4 sits comfortably between the mid-level SLT and the luxurious Denali in the Acadia lineup. Yet, labeling it merely as the second-most expensive trim doesn’t capture its essence. While the SLT exudes modesty and the Denali exudes luxury, the AT4 positions itself as the rugged adventurer—albeit more in looks than in hardcore performance.
### Design and Interior
Undoubtedly a soft-roader, the AT4 doesn’t drastically alter the Acadia’s core traits. It’s primarily an appearance package featuring a unique grille, 17-inch wheels, AT4 badging, and all-terrain tires that can handle mild off-road conditions while ensuring a smooth ride. The interior isn’t left out, boasting “AT4” embroidery on the seats, whether you choose the standard upholstery or the deluxe perforated leather upgrade.
You won’t find enhancements like increased ground clearance or a reinforced suspension system here. With a ground clearance remaining at 7.2 inches, the AT4 doesn’t venture far from its soft-roading roots, unlike other GMC AT4 models such as the Sierra 1500 or the 2021 Yukon, which come equipped with higher ground clearance, underbody protection, and sturdy suspension setups.
### On-Road Comfort and Handling
One of the AT4’s strongest suits is its on-road performance. Despite its all-terrain tires, the Acadia AT4 handles with a precision that’s often missing in more off-road-focused vehicles. The suspension remains plush, delivering a comfortable ride without the harshness found in models like the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro or Jeep Wranglers. While the tires produce some additional noise, the cabin maintains a tranquil environment, and the vehicle tracks well on highways.
A point of contention could be GMC’s part-time all-wheel-drive system, which requires manual engagement each time you start the vehicle. Unlike the engine’s automatic stop/start feature, which defaults to being on, the AWD system remembers its last setting, providing a bit of convenience.
### Competitive Pricing and Features
Starting at $43,395 (including a $1,195 delivery charge), the AT4 is competitively priced against offerings like the Dodge Durango Citadel Anodized Platinum, Kia Telluride SX, and Honda’s Pilot and Passport Black Editions.
### Standard Equipment
The AT4 comes packed with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include remote releases for the second-row seatbacks, a power tailgate, built-in navigation, heated and ventilated seats, and a host of safety technologies like rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. However, features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are only optional, and adaptive cruise control is not available.
### Space and Utility
A unique aspect of the AT4 is its standard two-row, five-passenger configuration, although a three-row, seven-passenger option is also available. In terms of cargo capacity, the five-seat model offers ample space, outshining even larger two-row crossovers like the Honda Passport. However, the three-row version falls short in cargo space compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander.
### Final Thoughts
While the AT4 package might not transform the Acadia into a hardcore off-roader, it does offer a compelling blend of rugged aesthetics and on-road comfort, making it a great choice for families who enjoy occasional outdoor adventures. The Acadia AT4 strikes a balance between style and substance, packing in an array of features and delivering a smooth, quiet ride, all while presenting a rugged, adventure-ready appearance.
For those looking to make a bold statement in their daily commutes or school runs, the Acadia AT4 is a solid contender, offering just enough grit to stand out without sacrificing everyday usability.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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