The GMC Acadia has undergone a redesign for its third generation, bringing a larger, more truck-like appearance and a new 2.5-liter turbo-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While the Acadia certainly has its strengths, there are some drawbacks to be aware of as well.
One of the standout features of the GMC Acadia is its handsome exterior design, which takes inspiration from the larger Yukon SUV and features stylish accents and a muscular overall look. The Denali trim, in particular, exudes a premium feel with chrome accents and a sleek overall appearance. The interior of the Acadia Denali is equally impressive, with luxurious leather upholstery and a well-designed dashboard featuring a 15.0-inch touchscreen display.
However, one of the main drawbacks of the Acadia is its 2.5-liter turbo-4 engine, which can be quite loud and strained under heavy throttle. While the engine produces a respectable 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, it struggles to deliver power efficiently due to its peak torque coming in at 3,500 rpm. This can make acceleration feel sluggish and unresponsive, especially considering the Acadia’s hefty weight of around 4,700 pounds.
Another downside to the Acadia is its placement of certain controls, such as the drive mode selector, which is located in an inconvenient spot near the driver’s left knee. This can be distracting and potentially unsafe while driving, as it requires the driver to take their eyes off the road to make adjustments. Additionally, the Acadia’s part-time all-wheel-drive system may not be as effective as other systems on the market, as it only activates when manually engaged by the driver.
Furthermore, the Acadia’s “L” mode, which unlocks the paddle shifters on the steering wheel, may seem unnecessary and confusing to some drivers. While the paddle shifters can be useful for certain driving situations, the requirement to activate them via the “L” mode may be cumbersome and counterintuitive for some users.
Overall, the GMC Acadia is a solid midsize SUV with a stylish design and upscale interior. However, potential buyers should be aware of its quirks and drawbacks, such as the strained turbo-4 engine, inconvenient control placement, and confusing paddle shifter activation. Despite these issues, the Acadia remains a strong contender in the competitive SUV market. The GMC Acadia has always been a popular choice for families looking for a spacious and versatile SUV. With its mix of comfort, performance, and technology, it’s no surprise that the 2024 GMC Acadia Denali AWD has earned a TCC Rating of 6.4 out of 10.
Starting at a base price of $43,995, including a $1,395 destination fee, the 2024 Acadia Denali AWD offers a luxurious driving experience. Equipped with a 328-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, this SUV delivers a smooth and powerful performance on the road.
One of the standout features of the Acadia Denali is its handsome exterior design, which exudes elegance and sophistication. The interior is equally impressive, with high-quality materials and a well-designed layout that provides both comfort and functionality. The tech interfaces are user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to stay connected and entertained while on the go.
However, there are some drawbacks to the Acadia Denali. The engine can be loud at times, which may be a concern for some drivers. Additionally, the placement of the drivetrain switches is a bit awkward and takes some getting used to. The AWD system is also only part-time, which may not be ideal for those who frequently drive in challenging weather conditions.
Overall, the 2024 GMC Acadia Denali AWD is a solid choice for those in the market for a upscale SUV. With its combination of style, comfort, and technology, it offers a well-rounded driving experience that is sure to impress.
