The new 2024 GMC Acadia marks a significant departure from its previous iterations receiving many updates for the new model year and introduced at this year’s Detroit Auto Show. For years, the Acadia occupied a unique niche, straddling the boundary between midsize two-row and large three-row SUVs. However, with its complete overhaul for 2024, it confidently steps into the realm of the larger three-row SUVs, a move that promises increased size, performance, and a host of distinctive design elements.
One of the most striking changes is the remarkable increase in size. The 2024 Acadia boasts a wheelbase that has grown by 10.6 inches, an overall length extended by 8.4 inches, and an overall height increase of 3.2 inches. These dimensions result in an 80% boost in cargo space and a 27% expansion in second-row seat room, making it comparable in size to its cousin, the 2024 Chevy Traverse. Despite this newfound similarity, the Acadia maintains its unique identity.
The Acadia’s exterior design distinguishes it from the Traverse. The front fascia takes cues from the imposing GMC Sierra 1500, featuring a tall grille and distinctive C-bracket headlights. Unlike the Traverse, it opts for a sleeker look, doing away with the bulky C-pillar. Designers deliberately reduced the size of this pillar to enhance visibility for third-row passengers. In contrast, the D-pillar is notably larger, finished in body color with a black plastic panel to create a wraparound effect on the rear window. The taillights also incorporate a gloss black panel to minimize visual bulk.
However, the most significant departure from its counterpart, the Traverse, is found inside the Acadia’s cabin. The entire dashboard is a unique creation for the Acadia, with an 11-inch instrument display situated under a horizontal cowl that seamlessly meets a vertical 15-inch infotainment screen. This distinctive design is flanked by vertical air vents, resulting in a squared-off, horizontal dash layout. A column-mounted shifter frees up valuable space in the center console, setting it apart from other GM products. Moreover, unlike GM’s upcoming electric vehicles, the Acadia retains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
The Acadia lineup offers unique features across its various models. The luxury-oriented Denali trim and off-road-focused AT4 trim both make a return. The AT4, in particular, stands out with an additional inch of ground clearance, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a functional skid plate for improved approach angles, and tow hooks. The Denali, on the other hand, exudes sophistication with body-color cladding and dark chrome trim. It offers a range of features, including 20-inch wheels as standard and an option for 22-inch wheels, animated lighting with sequential turn signal animations, real wood trim with laser-etched details, leather upholstery, and an available 16-speaker sound system. Super Cruise, an advanced driver-assistance system, is also available on the Denali, AT4, and Elevation Premium trims.
Powering the 2024 GMC Acadia is a single powertrain option—a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, reminiscent of the powerplant used in GMC and Chevy pickup trucks. This engine produces an impressive 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the V6 engine available in the previous model. This boost in power enables the Acadia to tow up to 5,000 pounds, an increase of 1,000 pounds. The transmission of choice is an eight-speed automatic, with both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations available. Notably, the AT4 trim comes equipped with a unique dual-clutch rear differential and standard all-wheel drive to enhance off-road capabilities.
As for pricing, it has yet to be officially announced for the 2024 GMC Acadia, but it is expected to see a moderate increase over the previous model, especially with the streamlined powertrain options. Production is slated to begin next year, with Acadia models expected to hit dealerships early in 2024. With its bold redesign, increased size, and unique features, the 2024 GMC Acadia is poised to make a significant impact in the competitive SUV market.
