2024 GMC Acadia

As if shoppers seeking a midsize 3-row SUV weren’t already spoiled for choice, the new Acadia arrives as another intriguing alternative. Following the usual GMC formula, which is to be a slightly more premium version of a Chevrolet, the Acadia is based on the Chevy Traverse. Both are among the roomiest entries in a segment that trades on roominess. The Acadia raises the plushness a notch or two while enjoying an engine that’s powerful for the class.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of 3-row SUVs, including the GMC Acadia.

An entirely new generation of Acadia (the third) launches this year. It’s appreciably bigger and more powerful than before.

The new GMC Acadia is one of the bigger contenders in this midsize milieu, along with SUVs like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Volkswagen Atlas, each in the same financial ballpark.

Before buying a new Acadia SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. Resale values of the previous-generation Acadia are below the class average, but the redesign could bring some improvement in that area. Remember, recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

The new Acadia generates a healthy 328 horsepower, easily enough muscle for virtually any driving situation in which a midsize SUV owner might find themselves, and impressive for the class. It can sound a bit coarse compared to some of the other turbocharged 4-cylinder engines in the class, though, and the 8-speed automatic transmission isn’t especially quick with its responses. Even so, we luxuriated in the super-smooth ride quality of the Denali version, enjoyed its perfectly weighted steering, and appreciated the comfortable and supportive seats. The cabin is also wonderfully quiet.

Fuel Economy

With front-wheel drive, the GMC Acadia achieves 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving. All-wheel drive results in 21 mpg combined. Both figures are about typical for the class.

The base version of the 2024 Acadia can seat up to eight occupants. A pair of captain’s chairs for the second row are optional here and standard higher up the trim level ladder, reducing posterior accommodation by one but providing greater comfort and easier access to the rearmost seats.

We like the spaciousness of the Acadia’s cabin. It’s also an environment that becomes quite luxurious in the top Denali trim, with things like leather upholstery and heated second-row seats. Some midsize SUVs have tight third-row accommodations, but the Acadia does better, with 32 inches of legroom. Cargo space is similarly generous — 23 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to a cavernous 97.5 cubic feet with rows two and three folded.

The new Acadia has a recognizable GMC style, yet each variant has its own specific look. The Denali version, for example, has a chrome grille, while the off-roading AT4 has all-terrain tires, red tow hooks, and skid plates. Based on the Chevrolet Traverse, the 2024 Acadia is one of the larger SUVs in this midsize class.

Infotainment system
The new Acadia comes with a user-friendly Google-based setup and has a portrait-oriented 15-inch touchscreen as standard.

Powered tailgate
This highly convenient feature is standard across the new Acadia lineup.

Smart Slide second-row seats
For easy access to the third row, these seats slide and tilt even when child seats are installed.

Super Cruise
First seen in a Cadillac, this excellent hands-free driving feature is now making it into other General Motors vehicles. We like that its availability isn’t restricted to just the top trim.

AT4 model
This SUV is the off-roader of the new Acadia lineup. It rides an inch higher than usual on a specialized suspension and comes with standard all-wheel drive.

Nine cameras
The new Acadia offers up to nine cameras, including a rearview camera mirror, hitch view, and a 360-degree system.

New body, new engine. Out goes the V6, replaced by a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit making 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This engine links to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is the default setup with all-wheel drive available as an option, or standard in the more off-road-focused AT4 variant. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, which is about average for the class.

3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty

GMC’s new-vehicle warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first. Powertrains are covered for five years or 60,000 miles, which includes roadside assistance. These are typical terms in the segment. The first scheduled maintenance visit is also free.

Safety

The new 2024 Acadia has a comprehensive array of standard safety features, including active blind spot assistance, Side Bicyclist Alert, and automatic emergency braking at intersections.