New slimmer, trimmer Acadia mid-size SUV is nimbler and more fuel-efficient
All-new 2017 GMC Acadia New slimmer, trimmer GMC Acadia mid-size SUV is nimbler and more fuel-efficient. Text and photos by Clare Dear. ▲
New from the ground up The 2017 iteration of the GMC Acadia is not simply a refreshing of the previous model – it’s been given a total makeover from the ground up. GMC engineers and designers have taken a clean-sheet approach in creating this latest Acadia. Other than the name, it shares nothing with its predecessor. Its new architecture results in a vehicle that’s lighter, trimmer, more nimble, more technically advanced and more efficient – factors that meet the demands of today’s consumers in the mid-size sport utility segment. ▲
Three trim levels Offering three rows of seating on most models, the Acadia fits into GMC’s SUV lineup between the full-size Yukon and compact Terrain. In addition to the base SLE and mid-range SLT trims, the lineup has been expanded with the addition of an All Terrain package, available on SLE and SLT all-wheel drive models. It’s targeted at buyers who enjoy “a more active lifestyle” and features more enhanced off-road capabilities. The premium Denali model, which accounts for 25%of Acadia sales, tops out the lineup. ▲
Smaller and lighter with Cadillac genes The foundation for the 2017 Acadia is an all-new platform it shares with the new Cadillac XT5 crossover. This new architecture, combined with a host of weight-saving features such as the use of more aluminum, high-strength steel and new, lighter sound-deadening materials (which saved 27 kilograms on its own), has resulted in a vehicle that’s 330 kg lighter than the 2016 model and gives it a big boost in fuel efficiency. The Acadia has also been trimmed down in overall size, again helping to improve efficiency and make the vehicle more nimble. The wheelbase has been pared back 162.5 millimetres to 2,857.5 mm, compared to the 2016 model; overall length is shorter by 182.88 mm (now 4,917.4 mm) and the width is narrower by 88.9 mm (now 1,915.16 mm.) ▲
Chiseled and sculpted Exterior design manager Carl Zipfel describes the Acadia’s new look as bold, more chiseled, with more sculpted details. He’s especially proud of the new front end featuring a dimensional grille and new wraparound halogen headlamps. LED lighting is standard on all models. All Terrain models are distinguished with a body-colour grille surround, black chrome trim and unique wheels. There’s good visibility, thanks to a lower beltline that creates more glass area, also enhancing the openness of the cabin, although the chunky A-pillars do require some head bobbing to ensure there’s nothing lurking beyond as you attempt to make a turn. ▲
Wheel and tire choices For 2017, the Acadia is available with a choice of aluminum wheels and tire sizes, depending on the trim level. The base SLE is fitted with 17-inch rims and P245/65R17 tires; All Terrain models, as well as SLT FWD and SLE AWD get 18-inch wheels and P235/65R18 rubber, while the SLT AWD and Denali are equipped with 20-inch alloys and P235/55R20 tires. The All Terrain gets special black-spoke wheels, while the Denali also has spoke wheels with a design unique to that trim. The tires on all models are the all-season variety. ▲
Truck meets luxury The sculpted exterior is carried over in the cabin, with a look that reflects the truck heritage of the brand, rather than the soft designs of cars. Soft-touch materials are used throughout, even in the base models, but the true taste of luxury is obvious in the Denali. The real aluminum accents on lesser models is replaced with real wood and supple leather is abundant, as are all the latest convenience, comfort and connectivity features. I found the front seats very comfortable, especially for long family road trips. However, I feel the seats could use a bit more bolstering as I found myself sliding side to side while weaving through the twists and turns of B.C.’s Sea-to-Sky Highway. ▲
Reduced cargo space Although trimming the size of the 2017 Acadia has reduced interior volume, including cargo space, the cabin still delivers the flexibility and functionality SUV buyers demand. The second- and third-row seats can be folded flat to maximize cargo space, which peaks at 1,181 litres. (Behind the 50/50-split third row, there are 363 litres of cargo space.) ▲
Flexible seating Seating configurations vary from five to seven occupants. (The All-Terrain only offers two rows of seating, a first for Acadia.) Two captain’s chairs are available as an alternative to the second-row bench. The passenger-side chair is mounted on a slide track that enables it to be readily moved forward for access to the third row. For added convenience, if a child seat is mounted on that sliding chair, it doesn’t have to be removed before accessing the third row – an innovation parents will appreciate. ▲
Technology galore The instrument panel features controls that are easily accessible and well positioned, while the instruments are readily viewable by the driver. A touch screen dominates the centre stack and is the access point to a host of standard and optional features. The Acadia’s enhanced connectivity features include phone integration technology with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the GMC IntelliLink system. The Acadia also features OnStar’s 4G Wi-Fi hotspot with a three-month/3GB data trial. A rearview camera is standard on all models, but if you are planning to haul a trailer, you should opt for the available Tow Vision system, which includes a guideline on the rear camera display to help you line up the trailer and hitch. ▲
Device recharging made easy All three rows of seating include access to USB charge ports. On the back of this Denali console, there’s also a 120-volt outlet, controls for the automatic climate control system and buttons for the three-stage heated rear seats. ▲
Full safety suite The 2017 Acadia has a full suite of standard and available safety features, including eight airbags. Perhaps one of the most unique safety technologies is its Rear Seat Reminder, an industry first. This system reminds the driver with audible and visual warnings to check the back seat for occupants before exiting if the rear doors were opened before the vehicle had been started. The system, which can be deactivated, will hopefully prevent children from being left behind in a locked vehicle. Other safety features include forward collision alert, forward automatic braking, lane departure and blind spot warning, surround-vision camera, rear park assist and rear cross traffic alert. ▲
Fuel-efficient four-cylinder The available engine lineup for the 2017 Acadia features two new engines, both paired with six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmissions. The base unit is a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with direct injection and variable valve timing, generating 193 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 188 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 revs. For buyers whose priority is fuel efficiency, this is their engine of choice. It’s more efficient than the previous Acadia four-cylinder, with a 16% reduction in internal friction, and features stop/start technology to further reduce fuel consumption. It’s also more powerful, thanks to a longer stroke that improves torque output. GM engineers have also reduced noise and vibration levels 40%, compared to the previous engine, resulting in a quieter, smoother running, more refined powerplant. Its fuel consumption ratings, with front-wheel drive, are 11.0 L/100 km in city driving, 9.2 on the highway and 10.2 combined. ▲
Powerful and refined V-6 For buyers seeking more performance and towing capability, GMC offers an all-new 3.6-litre V-6 with cutting-edge technologies, including cylinder deactivation, dual independent continuously-variable camshafts, intermediate load intake cam phasers and targeted cooling. This refined six-cylinder produces 310 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 271 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 revs. That output enables the Acadia to tow up to 4,000 pounds when fitted with the available trailering package. Its fuel consumption ratings are 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.3 highway and 11.3 combined. In two days of testing during a media drive from Vancouver to Whistler, including the numerous grades and downhill stretches along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, I averaged an impressive 10.6 L/100 km. This engine was extremely smooth and quiet, with quick response when more speed was needed – a very refined package, indeed. ▲
Terrain control All-wheel drive models feature a traction control selector mounted on the console that enables the driver to adjust the vehicle’s performance for various road conditions. Two all-wheel drive systems are offered, with both having an AWD disconnect at the front PTO. The standard AWD system is a single-clutch system with an open differential, while All Terrain models use an advanced AWD system with active KNG twin clutches. Settings on the console selector on All Terrain models replace the off-road mode with a specific mode for enhanced hill-climbing capabilities. ▲
Lower starting price Pricing for the base Acadia SLE with front-wheel drive starts at $34,995, which is $2,525 less than the 2016 base model, yet it has more standard equipment, including a new IntelliLink system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Adding all-wheel drive boosts the base price by $3,000. The mid-range SLT trim with all-wheel drive starts at $47,295, while the All Terrain AWD, with its enhanced off-road capability, starts at $49,390. The premium Denali edition has a starting price of $54,695. Destination charges for all models are $1,700. The Acadia is assembled in Spring Hill, Tenn. ▲
Whistler-Blackcomb connection Here’s an interesting fact regarding Whistler-Blackcomb, where we were introduced to the new Acadia: The facility has had a partnership with GMC for about 30 years – one of the longest sponsorships in GM Canada history. All-wheel drive GMC vehicles have been used over those three decades to transport staff, guests and equipment around the facility and up and down the mountain year-round, including in some of the most challenging weather conditions. As a nod to their relationship, GMC developed the Sierra All Mountain edition pickup. The All Mountain Sierra, built by 360 Fabrication Inc., is fitted with Mattracks to help it conquer any terrain it may face on the mountain. Some of the other upgrades to the truck include a powerful audio system, a rack for skis and/or snowboards and fog lights. There’s also a special ski-lift gondola that’s been fitted with GMC Denali trimmings. ▲
Keyword: All you need to know about the all-new 2017 GMC Acadia