GMC Acadia of 2024: Enhanced Size and Fully Turbocharged

Over the past generation, the GMC Acadia has occupied a unique position in the SUV market, straddling the line between midsize two-row and large three-row segments. However, the 2024 Acadia is set to confidently move into the larger three-row category, matching its cousin, the redesigned 2024 Chevy Traverse. Along with its enhanced size and fully turbocharged performance, the Acadia also boasts distinctive exterior and interior design.

The enhanced size is quite remarkable. The wheelbase has grown by 10.6 inches, the overall length by 8.4 inches, and the overall height by 3.2 inches. GMC claims that this has resulted in an 80% increase in cargo space and a 27% increase in second-row seat room. These changes make the Acadia nearly the same size as the Chevy Traverse, eliminating its previous standing as a smaller alternative.

Despite this similarity in size, the two vehicles have distinct appearances. The front fascia of the Acadia takes heavy inspiration from the GMC Sierra 1500, featuring a tall grille and C-bracket headlights. The sides of the vehicle deviate from the aggressive shape of the Traverse, omitting the fat C-pillar. GMC designers specifically worked on reducing the size of the pillar to improve visibility for third-row passengers. On the other hand, the D-pillar is relatively large and is painted in body color to highlight it. To prevent it from appearing excessively large, a black plastic panel contributes to a wraparound effect on the rear window. The taillights also feature a gloss black panel that merges them with the rear window area, reducing the visual bulk of the hatchback.

The interior serves as a major point of differentiation between the Traverse and the Acadia. The entire dashboard is unique to the Acadia, featuring an enhanced size 11-inch instrument display beneath a cowl that extends horizontally to meet a vertical 15-inch infotainment screen. The screen is accompanied by vertical air vents and is part of a squared-off, horizontal dash design. To maximize storage space in the center console, the Acadia adopts a column-mounted shifter. Additionally, the Acadia will be equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, unlike GM’s upcoming EVs.

Each Acadia model showcases unique features. The luxury Denali trim and off-road focused AT4 trim make a return. The AT4 stands out with an additional inch of ground clearance, all-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch wheels, and a front bumper with a functional skid plate. Tow hooks and amber marker lights, similar to those found on the GMC Canyon and heavy-duty Sierra models, are additions to the AT4. Black-painted trim accents the exterior, while rugged cloth materials adorn the seats. Mechanically, the AT4 features off-road tuned shocks, a twin-clutch rear differential for torque vectoring and rear-axle lock-up, and a Terrain off-road mode with hill descent control.

The Denali has a more refined exterior, with body-color cladding and dark chrome trim on the grille and other exterior parts. It comes standard with 20-inch wheels but can be equipped with enhanced size 22-inch wheels. Upon approach, the Denali features animated lighting with sequential turn signal animations. Inside, real wood trim with laser-etched details and leather upholstery enhance the luxurious feel. A 16-speaker sound system and Super Cruise, an advanced driver-assistance feature, are also available. Super Cruise is also an option on AT4 and Elevation Premium trims.

Powering the Acadia is a single turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which shares similarities with the 2.7-liter engine found in GMC and Chevy pickup trucks. It delivers 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the V6 option available in the previous model. This increased power also allows for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, an increase of 1,000 pounds. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and customers have the choice of front- or all-wheel-drive. The AT4 variant comes equipped with a unique dual-clutch rear differential and standard all-wheel-drive for enhanced off-road capability.

Pricing for the 2024 GMC Acadia has yet to be announced. It is expected that the price will be somewhat higher than the previous model due to it’s enhanced size and fully turbocharged powertrain option. Production is set to begin next year, with dealers receiving the Acadia early in 2024.

To see more detailed photo’s or to make a reservation head over to GMC’s website.