The 2024 GMC Acadia. Bigger, Bolder, Better.

In its third iteration, the 2024 GMC Acadia undergoes significant growth, transforming into a larger three-row mid-size SUV. This latest version not only boasts increased length, height, and width compared to its predecessor but also adopts a more rugged and boxy exterior design, resembling a truck—a design direction echoed by both new competitors and its corporate sibling, the recently revamped Chevy Traverse.

A New Interior With Much More Space

Turning our attention to the interior, the overall space has been elevated to a more lavish standard than its previous incarnation. One notable enhancement is the expanded storage capacity within the center console, facilitated by the relocation of the shift buttons to a column-mounted shifter. Additionally, there's increased storage space underneath the console.

The dashboard of the new Acadia is a focal point, prominently featuring a vertically oriented 15.0-inch touchscreen alongside a crisply rendered 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster. These features come as standard, and the infotainment system, built on Google's platform, offers customization options for screens and a range of available apps. At the bottom of the center display, you'll find static HVAC controls with a combination of touch functions and toggle switches.

Safety Comes Standard

In terms of safety and driver assistance, every Acadia model comes equipped with an extensive array of technology, with most of it now offered as standard. This includes popular driver aids like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, as well as systems designed to detect bicyclists and pedestrians. Moreover, the vehicle incorporates automated emergency braking that operates at intersections and provides up to nine external camera views for enhanced visibility. Notably, the new Acadia also offers Super Cruise, General Motors' hands-free driver-assist system, now available on the Elevation and AT4 trims for the first time.

All Grown Up

Undergoing a substantial expansion of 10.6 inches in overall length, the 2024 GMC Acadia now stretches its dimensions to a total of 204 inches from front to rear. This places it just half a foot shorter than its full-size counterpart, the GMC Yukon, and remarkably, the two now share an identical 120.9-inch wheelbase, thanks to the Acadia's extension by 8.6 inches. This transformation results in a more spacious interior, designed to better accommodate all passengers on board. The base-level Elevation trim features a second-row bench seat, providing seating for up to eight passengers, while the AT4 and Denali trims come with captain's chairs, limiting seating to seven.

The increased size of the new Acadia also translates into expanded cargo space. GMC asserts that there is nearly 80 percent more room behind the third row and approximately 36 percent more space when the rear seats are stowed away.

High Powered Turbo

Previously, the Acadia offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V-6. The four-cylinder delivered 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the V-6 produced 310 horses and 270 pound-feet. Now, every Acadia model is equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that significantly ups the power ante, generating 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. Although GMC has yet to release fuel-efficiency estimates for the Acadia's new powertrain, this engine upgrade promises increased performance.

Replacing the previous nine-speed unit, an eight-speed automatic transmission now handles gear-shifting duties. The Acadia continues to offer a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Either configuration can tow up to 5000 pounds, a notable increase of 1000 to 1700 pounds compared to the previous model. For off-road enthusiasts, the AT4 model boasts an exclusive all-wheel-drive system featuring a twin-clutch rear axle.

Offroad Capable AT4

The AT4 model commands an additional inch of height over other 2024 GMC Acadia models, which themselves are already 3.4 inches taller than their predecessors. Distinguishing features unique to the AT4 include 18-inch wheels outfitted with Goodyear Wrangler Territory all-terrain tires and a specially calibrated suspension. This rugged Acadia variant is further identifiable by its eye-catching red front tow hooks, lower front skid plate, and plastic over-fenders adorned with orange reflectors at their apex.

Denali Luxury

The Denali iteration of the Acadia, on the other hand, is impossible to miss. Not only does it showcase sleek glossy black lower body trim and a striking satin grille, but it can also be equipped with substantial 22-inch wheels, a significant upgrade from the prior maximum size of 20 inches. Inside the Acadia Denali, luxury takes center stage with leather upholstery, intricately laser-etched wood accents, tasteful chrome embellishments, and the added comfort of heated and ventilated front seats. A 12-speaker Bose sound system is standard, with an optional 16-speaker upgrade available. The same choices apply to the expansive panoramic sunroof and second-row heated seats.