The all-new 2017 GMC Acadia is smaller, lighter and handles better
The all-new 2017 GMC Acadia is lighter by 700 pounds and marginally smaller inside — by about 19 cubic feet of space — than its 2016 predecessor. It is 8 inches shorter bumper to bumper but can accommodate five, six or seven passengers depending on the layout.
That may not read like much on paper. But the 2017 Acadia is a tidier, more nimble vehicle that doesn’t give away much in accommodations. In the seven-passenger version, with sliding second-row seats, it’s easy to divvy up the space so second- and third-row passengers are not unduly scrunched. Climbing into the two third-row seats, however, requires agility despite cleverly designed second-row seats that flip out of the way.
Overall, the 2017 Acadia has a personality that’s easy to like — maybe even to love. With its more compact overall dimensions, it handles crisply and imparts confidence in urban and freeway traffic. With the 310-horsepower V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, it cruises quietly and comfortably for long distances on freeways, but welcomes twisting roads as well.
All-wheel-drive models are equipped with five driver-selectable modes, starting with front drive, in which the drive shaft and rear differential automatically uncouple for improved fuel economy. The tested V-6 Denali, with cylinder deactivation during cruising, delivered 18/25/20 mpg on the EPA’s city/highway/combined fuel consumption cycle.
The driver may also choose all-wheel drive, which has the capability to transfer power front to rear as well as side to side so the Acadia can keep going even with traction on only one wheel. Sport mode tightens the steering and suspension system for confident handling on curves. Other settings enhance trailer towing and off-road driving.
Eight Acadia models are available, starting with the $30,920 SL, which comes only with front-wheel drive. It is powered by GM’s 195-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is rated at 21/26/23 mpg city/highway/combined. It exhibits plenty of power off the line and in passing, but is nowhere as smooth as the V-6.
Another is the $40,965 All Terrain AWD version that carries five passengers. It is designed for customers who like occasional off-road adventures and carry extra gear. Others are the SLE, SLT and Denali versions, available with front- or all-wheel drive.
The tested Denali AWD exhibited a luxury interior with comfortable leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces and tasteful faux wood trim. Instruments and controls are ergonomically designed and easy to read and operate.
Safety and connectivity features abound, including automatic braking for objects and pedestrians, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, SXM satellite radio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and GM’s OnStar system.
Also included was the rear seat reminder, an innovation that is certain to save lives. On any given trip, if a rear door is opened and closed, the driver gets a reminder to check the back seat when the engine shuts down. It’s designed to prevent those horrific, fatal situations where forgetful parents have left children in hot, parked cars.
That alone makes the Acadia a compelling choice. It’s a complete family crossover.
