GMC's downsized, second-generation Acadia mid-size crossover moves into its second model year with minor changes. Those include a new five-seat configuration available with the All Terrain package that eliminates the formerly standard third row of seating. There's also a tire fill alert system that provides an audible alert when a tire reaches its recommended inflation pressure, and the upscale Denali trim's heated steering wheel gets an automatic function.
As before, Acadia buyers can choose from four powertrains: engines include a 2.5L four-cylinder (193 hp/188 lb-ft) and a 3.6L V6 making 310 hp and 271 lb-ft, both of which can be had with front- or all-wheel drive. Both motors come with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Trim levels are SLE-1 and SLE-2, offered with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, and SLT-1, SLT-2 and Denali, which are AWD-only.
Carried over from last year is the All Terrain package, whose most significant new characteristic is its option to leave out the third row seats, which are then replaced with in-floor storage and a cargo management system. All Terrain-equipped models also get a body-colour grille surround, dark chrome trim and trim-specific wheels and a more sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system with torque vectoring that GMC says enhances the car's hill climbing abilities.
All other models carry on with either six- or seven-person seating spread across the usual three rows.
The Acadia's smaller size means less weight, which translates into significantly lower fuel consumption compared to the old model, which was enhanced by the four-cylinder option introduced last year. As a result, the Acadia went from one of the thirstiest vehicles in its class (according to Natural Resources Canada estimates) to a solid mid-pack placement with the V6 engine, while the four-cylinder variants are among the most efficient vehicles in the Acadia's class. Consumption estimates range from 11.0/9.2 L/100 km with the four-cylinder and FWD, and 13.3/9.5 when optioned with the V6 and AWD.
Some key standard features include LED daytime running lights, three-zone automatic climate control (save for the five-passenger All Terrain), backup camera, traction select system to tailor performance to various road conditions, seven-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and passive keyless entry.
Notable options are a navigation system that includes a larger, eight-inch touchscreen display and a tow vision trailering system that uses the backup camera to aid in lining up the vehicle with a trailer hitch. SLE-2 and SLT-1 models can be optioned with a Driver Alert 1 package of lane change alert with blind spot alert, rear cross traffic alert and rear park assist.
Standard in SLT-2 and Denali models is a Driver Alert II suite that adds low-speed forward automatic braking, front pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, front park assist, lane keep assist, following distance indicator and forward collision alert. Also included is GM's excellent safety alert seat, which vibrates the driver's seat to warn of a potential collision or other undesirable situation.
