The GMC Acadia returns for 2013 with an exciting new look, though it retains all of the features that have made it a top seller over the years. The Acadia comes in three distinct trim levels: SLE, SLT and Denali. All come standard with three rows of seating for either seven or eight passengers. In 7-passenger models, two captain's chairs are equipped in the second row, while 8-passenger models feature a 60/40 split folding bench seat in the second row. With all rear seats folded down, cargo capacity is an impressive 117 cubic feet.
Front-wheel drive is standard on the Acadia, with all-wheel drive optional, and all models are powered by a 3.6L V6 making 288 horsepower and 270 ft-lb of torque. A 6-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, and front-drive models return 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive models return 16 and 23. All Acadia models are capable of towing up to 5,200 pounds when properly equipped.
The Acadia is best suited for paved roads, and its 4-wheel independent suspension and uni-body construction help to provide a comfortable ride in nearly every driving condition. When equipped, the all-wheel-drive system runs at 90% power to the front wheels, 10% to the rear, but when things get slick it shifts more traction to the rear wheels.
Standard features on the SLE include remote keyless entry, daytime LED running lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, power mirrors, windows and door locks, air conditioning, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a 6.5-inch color touch screen with audio controls, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, a 6-speaker stereo, rear park assist, rear camera and more. SLT models add amenities such as 19-inch alloy wheels, an 8-way power driver's seat, automatic tri-zone climate control, a Bose 10-speaker stereo system, heated front seats and a side blind spot alert. Finally, the top-of-the-line Denali offers 20-inch alloys, satin chrome accents, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, heated and cooled front seats, leather seating in the first two rows, a head-up display that projects speed, rpm, audio selection and more on the lower windshield and a 2-panel power sunroof.
A Technology Package for SLT models includes the head-up display, HID headlights and rear cargo area audio controls, a favorite for tailgating.
All Acadias offer incredible standard safety features such as StabiliTrak, a tire-pressure monitor, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and OnStar. SLE models are equipped with six airbags, while SLT and Denali models include a seventh, the industry-first front center airbag, which deploys between the driver and front passenger from the inboard side of the driver's seat.
Room For Eight Passengers
Able Handling
Attractive Styling, Available All-wheel Drive
Lots Of Cargo Space
Ample Standard Features
Luxury Denali Model
The GMC Acadia receives a facelift for 2013, including a more upright, 3-bar grille design and LED running lights. At the rear are new LED tail lamps that echo the front, as well as wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. Inside, the Acadia retains much of the functionality buyers already love, while refinements make it even more pleasant and accessible. New soft-touch materials are everywhere, as is high-quality French stitching and red ambient lighting. An industry-first front center airbag is also new, which deploys between the driver and front passenger from the inboard side of the driver's seat. Exterior colors include Champagne Silver Metallic, Iridium Metallic and Atlantis Blue Metallic. MSRP for the 2013 GMC Acadia starts at $34,050, while the top-level Acadia Denali starts at $45,945.
The GMC Acadia full-size crossover offers an excellent minivan alternative to families looking for a safe, stylish, people carrier. Available all-wheel drive means that weather won't prevent the occasional side trip, either. When stacked against competitors like the Dodge Durango, Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander, the Acadia more than holds its own, with several unique standard features.
