The 2024 GMC Acadia: A Bold Leap Forward in Space and Design
BLUFFTON, S.C. — The 2024 GMC Acadia has undergone significant changes, promising to offer more space, advanced features, and a bolder design. With an 8.4-inch longer wheelbase and a 10.6-inch increase in overall length, the new Acadia is substantially larger, boasting 80 percent more cargo space and 27 percent more legroom in the second row. These updates mark a notable departure from its predecessor, aligning more closely with the robust appearance of the GMC Sierra pickup.
Striking Exterior Enhancements
GMC has taken a significant step to distinguish the Acadia from its Chevrolet Traverse cousin. Despite sharing a similar size and platform, the Acadia features several unique design elements. The tall, truck-like grille gives it a commanding presence, while C-shaped LED headlights add a touch of character. The removal of the chunky C-pillars and the enlargement of the D-pillars improve third-row visibility and keep the cargo area more discreet. Additional features include modern LED lighting and quad exhaust tips inspired by the Corvette C8, lending the Acadia a sporty yet truck-like aesthetic.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Acadia shares its powertrain with the Chevrolet Traverse, featuring a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, utilizes the "ePhaser" system to optimally adjust the camshaft for power and efficiency. Fuel efficiency stands at a respectable 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models, with all-wheel-drive versions achieving 19/24/21 mpg.
Trim Options and Pricing
The 2024 Acadia is available in several trims: the base Elevation ($43,995 including delivery; add $2,000 for AWD), the luxurious Denali (starting at $55,695 for FWD and $57,695 for AWD), and the rugged AT4 trim ($51,395 with AWD standard). The Elevation trim’s features are yet to be fully evaluated, but both the Denali and AT4 trims have garnered attention for their comprehensive offerings.
Inside the Acadia: Luxurious and Tech-Savvy
A test drive in the Denali trim revealed an upscale interior that sets it apart from the Traverse. Highlights include a standard portrait-oriented 15-inch infotainment screen with Google Built-In and an 11-inch driver display. The Denali also features a standard head-up display, and Google Maps navigation on the instrument panel, allowing the infotainment screen to be used for other functions. Additionally, the system retains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Denali’s interior boasts leather seats with intricate stitching, open-pore Ayus wood trim, and a functional center console, now open at the bottom for additional storage. The seven-seater layout comes standard, with second-row captain chairs providing ample room. The third row offers surprisingly generous space, accommodating adults comfortably with slight adjustments to the second-row seats.
Spacious and Versatile
The Acadia excels in cargo space, offering a segment-leading 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row. This expands to 57.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 97.5 cubic feet with all seats down, making it ideal for family travel. The vehicle also boasts a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Driving Experience and Advanced Features
The Denali test drive showcased standard 20-inch wheels and a robust suspension, delivering a smooth ride. GMC’s Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance system, optional across all trims, performed impressively, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue.
Switching gears to the off-road-oriented AT4, this trim sits higher and includes red tow hooks, skid plates, and a twin-clutch AWD system. While it lacks some of the Denali’s luxury features, it’s well-equipped for rugged use. The AT4 effortlessly tackled gravel and sandy terrains, with the suspension handling ruts and bumps effectively. On paved roads, it maintained excellent stability and comfort, with minimal body roll.
The 2.5-liter turbo engine, while not as burly as a V6, proved adequate for the Acadia, delivering smooth and responsive power.
Conclusion
The 2024 GMC Acadia stands out among three-row SUVs with its spacious interior, bold design, and versatile trims. Its unique exterior, advanced tech features, and off-road capabilities make it a compelling choice over rivals like the Chevrolet Traverse. Whether you opt for the luxurious Denali or the rugged AT4, the new Acadia promises a refined and capable driving experience.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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