GMC modernizes its second-largest SUV with more power, technology and standard safety features
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Yes, there are a few things I’d change or CTRL-Z (undo, for those who don’t speak computer) but this large mid-size SUV is a strong step forward for a brand primarily known for its pickup trucks.
What powers the 2024 GMC Acadia?
Tapping into the GM parts bin, the 2024 GMC Acadia uses a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, through an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. This is the same setup as the new Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse. Power figures are up 18 horsepower and 55 lb-ft of torque, compared to 2023’s 3.6L V6, which had nine gears.
Towing capability, when properly equipped, rings in at 5,000 pounds, which is on par for the class.
What’s missing is a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or really any kind of electric option at all. GM has a suite of electric vehicles and it’s odd, especially for a new-generation in 2024, the Acadia is gas-only.
How does the GMC Acadia drive?
In true GM form, the new Acadia is decked out with a softer suspension, delivering a very comfortable ride feel. Not quite the couch-on-wheels feel that the Buick Enclave has, but the Acadia still soaks up road imperfections with minimal impact on those inside. The Denali trim has the option for a “Denali Reserve Package” that includes a performance suspension and massive 22-inch wheels.
Engine noise registers high on the audible scale and at times, there’s hesitation in shuffling through lower gears and rev-hang appears during sharper acceleration. Note that while the gear selector is a stalk on the right side of the steering wheel, the L gear is a button on the steering wheel.
While still a mid-size three-row crossover, it drives much more like a full-size, thanks to the extra 10.6 inches of length and 3.2 inches of height. It’s not a shot against the Acadia. Rather, it’s something to be aware of when you’re test driving it.
2024 GMC Acadia fuel consumption
Natural Resources Canada rates the 2024 Acadia, across all trims, at 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 9.9 on the highway and 11.3 as a combined average. Interestingly, the 2023 Acadia registered at 11 L/100 km combined, so fuel efficiency has become less efficient this model year.
As of publishing, GMC still has “TBD” under fuel tank capacity. Given the new Buick Enclave and Chevy Traverse run off an 82 L fuel tank, that’s likely what this has. And if that’s true, then on a full tank of fuel, the Acadia can go up to a touch over 700 km.
How many seats does the 2024 GMC Acadia have?
Seven seats are in here via a 2+2+3 configuration for 2024, and according to GMC Canada, the 2025 model will let customers choose between seven or eight seats and feature a second-row bench seat as opposed to the captain’s chars.
Is the 2024 GMC Acadia good for road trips?
Yes. The 2024 GMC Acadia has that soft, supple suspension, ample space in the first and second rows, as well as decent passenger space for two out of the three third row occupants, along with the vastly increased cargo space — all of which would make it an excellent road trip vehicle. Parents will appreciate the captain’s chairs in the second row, especially if a couple fighting kids need to be separated.
How much cargo space does the GMC Acadia have?
The 2024 GMC Acadia has much more than the 2023 version! There are 651 litres behind the third row, 1,622 litres behind the second row, and a whopping 2,761 litres behind the first row, an increase of 23%. Thank the increased length of nearly a foot for the boost in cargo space.
My Denali tester has power third row folding seats, which is a cool party trick until you’re standing in the extreme cold/heat or in snow/rain waiting for the third row of seats to fold. The Denali also features a power assist to fold/maneuver the two second row seats.
2024 GMC Acadia infotainment and standard features
Impressively good and easy to use. The infotainment screen nearly doubled in size from 2023’s eight-inch version to a whopping 15 inches, complete with Google built-in technology. There are a few physical HVAC controls beneath it, thankfully, and there are customizable shortcut icons on the top left. The left stalk off the steering wheel houses the turn signal, high beams and all three wiper controls, meaning the headlamp controls are sadly embedded in the screen, along with the heated/ventilated seat controls and many others. Yes, there’s a volume dial and the menus are smartly laid out with minimal digging for daily controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto take up nearly the entire 15 inches, making this wildly popular piece of technology very easy to use.
The 11-inch digital instrument cluster is right-sized to see clearly through the steering wheel and offers a few different design layouts.
Every Acadia gets a 12-speaker audio system, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, 360-degree camera, remote start, wireless charging, a six-way power front passenger seat, an eight-way power driver seat, power liftgate and three-zone climate controls.
What standard safety features come with the 2024 GMC Acadia?
The list sits strong at nearly 20 features which include, but are not limited to:
- Enhanced automatic emergency braking
- Blind zone steering assist
- High definition surround vision
- IntelliBeam auto high beams
- Rear park assist
- Rear seat reminder
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
Plus, there are up to nine different camera views to help navigate this larger mid-size SUV in parking lots and garages.
For the first time, GM’s Super Cruise is available on the Acadia as well, which is one of the better semi-autonomous driving technologies on the market.
What competes with the 2024 GMC Acadia?
Pros
✔ Plus-sized for its class
✔ Plenty of modern technology
✔ Better power figures
Cons
✘ Noisy engine
✘ Only seven seats for the 2024 model
✘ Gasoline only
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