The GMC Acadia has occupied a distinctive niche, straddling the line between the standard midsize two-row and the more expansive three-row SUV segments. However, the spotlight now shifts to the fully revamped 2024 Acadia, confidently venturing into the latter category by expanding in size to align closely with its fully overhauled sibling, the 2024 Chevy Traverse. Beyond its amplified dimensions and upgraded performance, the Acadia introduces a distinctive blend of exterior and interior aesthetics.
The enlargement in size is indeed noteworthy. The wheelbase extends by a significant 10.6 inches, while the overall length stretches by 8.4 inches, and the overall height gains 3.2 inches. GMC proudly claims that these changes result in an impressive 80% increase in cargo space and a 27% expansion in second-row seating. This transformation effectively places the Acadia within the same size bracket as the Chevy Traverse, shedding its previous status as a more compact alternative.
However, it’s vital to note that visual similarities between the two vehicles are sparse. The Acadia’s front fascia boldly borrows from the GMC Sierra 1500, showcasing a commanding grille and striking C-bracket headlights. It departs from the Traverse’s aggressive silhouette with sleeker flanks and the absence of a substantial C-pillar. The GMC design team meticulously reduced the size of this pillar, primarily to enhance visibility for third-row passengers. Conversely, the D-pillar stands prominently, accentuated by a body-colored finish, except for a strategically positioned black plastic panel that imparts a subtle wraparound effect to the rear window. Even the taillights feature a gloss black panel, seamlessly merging with the rear window and reducing the hatchback’s visual bulk.
Yet, the true distinction between the Traverse and Acadia unfolds within their interiors. A unique dashboard graces the Acadia, entirely exclusive to this model. Underneath a horizontal cowl, the 11-inch instrument display merges seamlessly with a towering 15-inch vertical infotainment screen. Flanking this striking centerpiece are vertical air vents, giving the Acadia an imposing yet sophisticated aura. The column-mounted shifter is another distinguishing feature, freeing up valuable space within the center console for storage. Remarkably, there’s an almost complete absence of parts borrowed from other GM offerings. In contrast to GM’s upcoming electric vehicles, the Acadia will offer full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
Moreover, individual Acadia models boast unique features. The upscale Denali trim and the off-road-focused AT4 trim make a return. The AT4 stands out with an extra inch of ground clearance, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a distinctive front bumper with a functional skid plate, prominent tow hooks, and amber marker lights reminiscent of the GMC Canyon and heavy-duty GMC Sierra models. The AT4 is adorned with black-painted accents on the exterior and rugged cloth materials on the seats. Mechanically, it features off-road-tuned shocks, a twin-clutch rear differential enabling torque vectoring and rear-axle lock-up, and a Terrain off-road mode coupled with hill descent control.
Conversely, the Denali trim exudes understated elegance with body-colored cladding and dark chrome trim on the grille and exterior components. It comes with standard 20-inch wheels, upgradable to 22-inch wheels, and greets approaching onlookers with animated lighting through sequential turn signal animations. Inside, it boasts real wood accents with laser-etched details and luxurious leather upholstery. Audiophiles will appreciate the available 16-speaker sound system, and Super Cruise is also on offer, extending to the AT4 and Elevation Premium trims.
Underneath the surface, the 2024 GMC Acadia relies on a single powertrain—a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, bearing similarities to the 2.7-liter engine in GMC and Chevy pickup trucks. This robust engine generates 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the outgoing V6. This enhancement translates to a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, an increase of 1,000 pounds. The sole transmission is an eight-speed automatic, and buyers can opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. As previously mentioned, the AT4 variant distinguishes itself with the inclusion of a unique dual-clutch rear differential, standardizing all-wheel drive.
As pricing details for the 2024 GMC Acadia remain undisclosed, one can anticipate a modest increase over its predecessor, particularly given the singular powertrain option. Production is set to commence next year, with the Acadia arriving at dealerships early in 2024.
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