New for 2016

For 2016 the GMC Acadia benefits from standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, adding even more brains to this popular SUV’s brawn.

The Complete Package

How do you compete in a segment that is booming with choice? You go about building one of the most robust and complete SUVs on the market. Sounds easy, right? It’s not. But the 2016 GMC Acadia sure makes it look that way.

With room for 8 passengers (we’re talking full-sized adults here), a rugged exterior, and a lavish interior that, especially in Denali trim, approaches Cadillac levels of luxury, the 2016 GMC Acadia is as compelling as they come. Throw in available all-wheel drive and standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability and what you’re left with is one smart and capable SUV.

Powertrains and Performance

Absolute power corrupts absolutely, or so the old saying goes. Thankfully, that maxim doesn’t ring true for the 2016 Acadia. In fact, the brawny yet brainy SUV is more than willing to share its talents.

Powered by a prodigious 3.6-liter V6, and paired to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Acadia’s engine serves up an impressive 281 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Stepping up to the Denali trim (more on trims in a bit) ups the power output to 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque courtesy of an extra exhaust.

For all Acadia trims front wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive is an available option.

If you’re seriously considering a vehicle with the size and stature of the Acadia then chances are you’re not too concerned about fuel economy. That’s a shame really as the Acadia handles itself rather well in this department. All-wheel drive model earn an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (16 city/23 highway),* and front-wheel versions earning 19 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway).

When properly equipped, the 2016 Acadia can tow up to 5,200 pounds.

Features and Trims

The 2016 GMC Acadia starts at $30,975 and is offered in three basic trim levels: SLE, SLT, and Denali. SLE and SLT models are further divided into SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT-1, and SLT-2 sub trims.

Let’s begin with seat configuration. The standard setup in the Acadia SLE-1 is a second row bench seat that accommodates up to eight passengers. This setup is optional on all other models, which opt instead for a standard seven-passenger configuration with second-row captain’s chairs.

Standard features for the Acadia SLE-1 include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. For tech lovers, the Acadia comes with standard Bluetooth® connectivity, OnStar telematics, the aforementioned 4G LTE built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and a rearview camera, which makes backing up a breeze. A touchscreen interface and six-speaker sound system—complete with CD player and USB/iPod interface are also standard.

The SLE-2 adds even more goodies, like a power liftgate, remote ignition, eight-way power driver seat, and GMC’s upgraded IntelliLink™ interface.

Stepping up to the SLT-1 adds a number of upgrades. Highlights include heated mirrors, tri-zone climate control, leather first-and second-row seats, and a 10-speaker Bose® surround-sound system. It’s worth mentioning that the SLT-1 can also be outfitted with an Open Road package that adds a dual-pane sunroof, towing equipment, and a number of advanced safety features, such as forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and a navigation system.

Another step up to the SLT-2 nets you creature comforts such as power-folding mirrors, rear cross-traffic alter, and a heated steering wheel.

At the top of the pile sits the Acadia Denali. It’s by far the most robust version available, featuring all the previous model’s equipment (where applicable), and benefitting from larger 20-inch wheels, special exterior styling, extra sound-deadening materials, and a whole lot more.

Design

Sometimes the no-nonsense approach is the best one, and that’s exactly what you get with the 2016 Acadia. GMC designers deserve a lot of credit for penning an exterior that exhibits a delicate balance of ruggedness and elegance. You won’t find tacked-on body cladding or garish add-ons—just a really handsome car.

It’s more of the same inside, where the masterfully crafter interior belies the Acadia’s attractive price point. There’s seating for eight. The controls are intuitive to use. And the cargo space is truly impressive. Fold both rows flat and the Acadia offers up a generous 116.9 cubic feet of cargo space, to boot.

Safety

There is a natural sense of safety when driving a vehicle of the Acadia’s stature, thankfully the good folks at GMC thought to fill the Acadia with an extensive list of safety features, too. These include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, a rearview camera and rear parking sensors. All trims with the exception of the SLE-1 also have a front-center airbag that inflates between the driver and right front passenger for additional protection in a side-impact collision.

Also standard on all models is GM’s OnStar system, which includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, an emergency assistance button, stolen vehicle locator and active intervention, and remote door unlock.

Bottom Line

With its roomy exterior, robust safety features, and powerful engine, the 2016 GMC Acadia proves that shopping for a new SUV doesn’t have to be a chore, or a bore for that matter. If you prefer the smooth driving characteristics of a car but need the space and utility of an SUV, the 2016 GMC Acadia deserves a test drive.

Contact or visit us at 3Birds Template to schedule yours.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment.

Image: GMC