Test drive | GMC Acadia: highway hero

The GMC Acadia has been going on for seven years already in its current form. Aside from some cosmetic tweaks and minor mechanical tweaks for the 2020 model year, the mid-size SUV remains tough in the face of competition that’s shortening its models’ life cycles to feed a sense of novelty. Does this strategy make it an uncompetitive product? We tested it over a few thousand kilometers during a trip to the beautiful Gaspé Peninsula.

Design son

So, how does this Acadia stand out from its rivals? First for its packaging, which captures the “truck” image that GMC has been presenting for a long time. Its rectangular grille with bold lines supported by wide wings and a rounded hood supports this segment. The side plan is more conventional, which may recall the old family cars with its curved rear. The angular wheel arches seem to refer to second-generation GMC Jimmys from the 1970s. The fenders slightly overhang the tailgate. Note the large glass surface which helps a lot with visibility.

On board

There are good and clearly not so good in this interior, wrinkles that become obvious from the first contact. We notice uneven build quality in certain areas and the hard plastics are very exposed below the bottom dash line. This Acadia remains, despite these observations, a well-designed car for family use. Of course, the two seats in the last row are mainly for emergency purposes, but once lowered, their backrests provide access to 1180 L of luggage. The front and middle seats offer plenty of room in all measuring areas. There is also plenty of storage space and lots of space. Finally, note the simple and beautiful design of the control shell that houses the transmission control buttons.

Under the hood

The engine menu for this Acadia consists of two engines used in most models of the GM family: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (228 hp) and an optional 3.6L V6 (310 hp). About $545 separates the two engines, which makes the V6 a must-have because of its greater flexibility and more pleasant low-end. It is an excellent engine supported by a nine-speed transmission that is generally smooth, but it is characterized by a delay in response that is very little when taking it. The observed consumption during the test was 9.6 L, which does not shine, especially compared to the hybrid Toyota Highlander, but which puts it in the average competition with V6 mechanics.

Behind the wheel

Acadia has never wanted to be a dance partner to brighten up your sunny Sundays on your favorite road. His intention is clear: to isolate the residents as best as possible from the harshness of the bituminous coverings as well as the outside noise. It succeeds in this mission very well, making long journeys less tiring thanks to good course management. The steering is also precise and stable without having real contact. Body movements are definitely pronounced when cornering, the result of damping stability adjustment. Adjustments can be slightly tightened on the rear axle, which tends to show secondary movements after the bumps in the conversation after a good compression phase at the bottom of the hill. Moreover, everything is very predictable, comfort food on four wheels, in short.

Embedded technologies

Without being the latest in the techno aspect of its lineup, this Acadia offers the essentials while offering several cleverly placed physical keys. Its multimedia system from the past is easy to approach and is supported by a display that is readable, if not as well defined as some rivals. The instrument combines real and digital needles with a fine scale. Remember the presence ofApple CarPlay and D’Android Auto wireless as usual as well as charging accessible on the console using a very well designed open slot. GMC, however, would benefit from including adaptive cruise control in standard equipment, which is reserved for the more expensive Denali model.

Decision

Due to some stagnation in its development, Acadia will not be able to compete on equal terms with many rivals who are more modern in their performance and equipment. Our longer-than-usual essay, however, allowed us to appreciate its overall merits, making it a useful part of its proposal. Its V6, an endangered species, is lively and quiet, and the ride remains refined and covered with good sound insulation. Its construction, however, would need to be worse, while many gaps were present in the passenger compartment near certain edges. If you’re going to stick with the SLE version without filling out the notebook with more options, the Acadia offers a competitive price that might excuse these mistakes. Besides, there are better places elsewhere.