Holden Acadia
| Company type | Vehicle model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | GMC Safari, GMC Envoy, Pontiac Montana SV6, Buick Rainier, Buick Rendezvous, Saturn Outlook |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Headquarters | Spring Hill, Tennessee (second generation production) , United States |
Area served | North America, Australia, New Zealand (as Holden Acadia) |
| Products | Mid-size crossover SUV |
| Parent | General Motors |
The GMC Acadia is a crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors under the GMC brand. The initial generation of the Acadia utilized the GM Lambda platform, which it shared with the Saturn Outlook, Chevrolet Traverse, and Buick Enclave. Launched in 2006 as a 2007 model for the North American market, it took the place of various seven- or eight-passenger vehicles within the Buick-Pontiac-GMC range, such as the midsize GMC Safari van, GMC Envoy, and Pontiac Montana SV6. By 2009, Lambda-based models had also phased out vehicles like the Buick Rainier, Buick Rendezvous, and Saturn Outlook. The Denali trim level was introduced in 2011. In 2017, the Acadia entered its second generation and was repositioned as a midsize crossover SUV, aiming to compete with models including the Ford Explorer, Ford Edge, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
First generation (2007)
GMC's first-generation Acadia represented its foray into the truck-inspired crossover segment and was notable for being GMC’s first unibody, front-wheel-drive passenger vehicle since the 1970s. Originally intended to be a Pontiac model, it was reassigned to GMC after design completion, featuring styling elements reminiscent of earlier Pontiac vehicles. Over time, its exterior design evolved, culminating in a 2013 update that introduced more squared wheelwell openings.
Capable of seating eight passengers and available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Acadia offered a towing capacity of , placing it between the smaller GMC Terrain and larger Chevrolet Tahoe/Yukon within GMC’s product hierarchy. It occupied a mid-tier position among Lambda platform vehicles, sitting between the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave.
Production experienced a brief interruption in December 2006 due to issues related to engine mounts and rivets but quickly resumed following corrective measures. In later years, the first-generation Acadia continued to be sold alongside its replacement under the name Acadia Limited.
Suspension and chassis
The 2008 model features a wheelbase with front and rear tracks measuring . Its suspension setup includes an independent MacPherson strut configuration at the front with a direct-acting stabilizer bar and aluminum knuckles. The rear suspension employs an independent "H" Linked design.
Steering is provided by power-assisted rack-and-pinion, with an optional variable-effort system available. Standard braking consists of four-wheel disc brakes equipped with ABS. The SLT2 trim comes with 19 inch cast aluminum wheels fitted with Goodyear Eagle RS-A M+S P255/60R-19 tires and includes a high-pressure compact spare tire; these wheels are optional on the SLT1 variant. The SLE trim is equipped with 18 inch painted aluminum wheels paired with P255/65R-18 tires, while the SLT1 features standard 18 inch machined aluminum wheels.
Engine and transmission
Powering the Acadia is GM’s High Feature LY7 3.6 L V6 engine, which initially delivered and torque. This engine is mated to a GM-Ford co-developed 6-speed automatic transmission.
In 2009, an upgrade introduced the direct-injected LLT engine variant producing and torque. The 2012 model year maintained this output at 6,300 rpm for horsepower and 3,400 rpm for torque.
The 2016 Acadia Limited is equipped with a 3.6 L LGX V6 engine generating 310 hp (231 kW) and 271 lb·ft (367 Nm) of torque.
| Year | Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007–2008 | 3.6 L LY7 V6 | 275 hp (205 kW) | 251 lb⋅ft (340 N⋅m) | 6-speed 6T75 |
| 2009–2016 | 3.6 L LLT V6 | 288 hp (215 kW) | 270 lb⋅ft (366 N⋅m) | |
| 2016 | 3.6 L LGX V6 | 310 hp (231 kW) | 271 lb·ft (367 N·m) | 6-speed 6T70 |
Interior
The Acadia provides optional three-row seating arrangements, accommodating either seven or eight occupants; however, models released after 2017 reduced the third row's seating capacity from three to two passengers. Its cabin design is more modern compared to the Outlook, incorporating chrome and satin nickel detailing alongside an expanded palette of two-tone color combinations such as Ebony paired with Light Titanium cloth or leather upholstery options in Ebony, Light Titanium, and Brick. A heads-up display is offered exclusively on the Acadia and comes standard on the Denali variant.
Acadia Denali
Introduced in 2010 as a 2011 model, the GMC Acadia Denali presented an upscale trim available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive with seating for seven or eight individuals. Distinctive features include a monochromatic paint finish, a honeycomb grille, unique front and rear bumper designs, HID headlights, chrome accents, polished exhaust tips, and 20-inch wheels with a six-spoke design. The interior upgrades encompass perforated leather seating surfaces and wood trim elements.
As the newest addition alongside the Terrain Denali and Yukon Denali, the Acadia Denali was GMC’s inaugural crossover to bear the prestigious Denali badge.
Trim levels
| Trim level | Years |
|---|---|
| SL | 2008–2012 |
| SLE | 2007–present |
| SLT | 2007–present |
| Denali | 2011–present |
Safety
The Acadia’s unibody design results in a lower center of gravity when compared to earlier GM SUVs built on truck platforms, which helps minimize rollover hazards. The body structure incorporates high-strength steel components, including a cross-car beam positioned between the B-pillars.
Standard safety equipment consists of six airbags: dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags for front occupants, and head curtain airbags protecting all three rows. Additionally, a rollover detection system activates airbags as needed. The vehicle also comes standard with the OnStar emergency communication system.
2013 facelift
At the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, General Motors unveiled the refreshed 2013 GMC Acadia built upon the now-discontinued Saturn Outlook platform. Updates featured a redesigned grille and front fascia, a new rear liftgate design, and improved interior materials and finishes to match its updated counterparts—the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse.
2014 model year
For 2014, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning systems became standard equipment on the Denali trim and were offered as options on SLT1 and SLT2 models. Additionally, two USB ports dedicated solely to charging devices for second-row passengers were made standard across all trims.
2015 model year
The 2015 Acadia introduced a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard on SLT-2 and Denali trims along with a new set of twenty-inch aluminum wheels. New exterior paint colors included Crimson Red Tintcoat, Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic, and Midnight Amethyst Metallic. Dual exhaust outlets were reserved exclusively for Denali models; other trims featured single exhaust configurations.
Acadia Limited
In 2017, General Motors continued selling the first-generation Acadia alongside its redesigned successor under the name Acadia Limited, primarily targeting rental fleets and commercial markets. Although it was smaller than the new generation model, it was priced higher—positioned between the SLT and Denali trims. Production of this version remained at Lansing, Michigan, while manufacturing of the second generation moved to Spring Hill, Tennessee. With the launch of the redesigned Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse in 2017, production of the Acadia Limited ceased on March 31 to accommodate these new models.
Second generation (2017)
The second-generation Acadia made its first appearance at the 2016 North American International Auto Show and became available in May 2016 as a 2017 model year. Manufactured in Spring Hill, Tennessee, this version was sold concurrently with the initial Acadia Limited through the end of 2017.
This redesign shortened the vehicle’s length from 200.8 inches to 193.6 inches and narrowed its width from 78.9 inches to 75.4 inches, reducing weight by approximately 700 pounds. These changes repositioned the Acadia within the mid-size SUV segment, situated above the Terrain but below the larger Traverse and Enclave models. The starting MSRP was lowered to $29,995 (US). Buyers could choose seating arrangements for five, six, or seven passengers across different two- or three-row configurations.
Engine options included a 2.5-liter inline-four or a 3.6-liter V6, both available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. A sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system developed by GKN Driveline was offered exclusively on models equipped with the All-Terrain package, enhancing off-road performance. The exterior received refreshed styling elements, including redesigned fascia and lighting.
Built upon GM’s C1XX platform—shared with vehicles such as the Cadillac XT5, Buick Envision (China), and Chevrolet Blazer—the Acadia fit into GM’s mid-size crossover portfolio starting in 2018.
Fuel efficiency improved notably; the 3.6L V6 engine achieved an EPA rating of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway across both AWD and FWD configurations, surpassing previous model figures.
The second-generation Acadia introduced GM’s AppShop infotainment system while maintaining familiar trim levels from its predecessor: SL, SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT-1, SLT-2, and Denali. The rugged All-Terrain Package was available on SLE and SLT trims and included distinctive styling cues; these trims also offered an optional configuration eliminating the third-row seat.
A key safety advancement was the addition of a rear-seat reminder system aimed at preventing child heatstroke by alerting drivers to check rear seats before exiting their vehicle.
Holden Acadia
In Australia and New Zealand, the Acadia was sold under the Holden brand as a full-size crossover utility vehicle starting November 12, 2018. Produced in Tennessee with right-hand drive specifications, it was chosen for these markets due to its more compact dimensions relative to the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave.
Plans for a 2020 update corresponding with GMC Acadia’s facelift were canceled following Holden’s discontinuation in 2020. During its availability period, total sales amounted to 5,157 units.
2020 facelift
The GMC Acadia received a facelift for 2020 featuring updated exterior styling that included a front grille inspired by the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The infotainment system was upgraded to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. New alloy wheel designs were introduced alongside the debut of the AT4 trim, which replaced the All-Terrain Package on select configurations. Engine choices expanded to include a 2.0L turbocharged EcoTec inline-four while retaining both the 2.5L EcoTec I4 and the 3.6L VVT V6 engines. Additionally, a new Electronic Precision Shift push-button automatic transmission coupled with a nine-speed automatic became standard. This refreshed model launched in fall of 2019.
2021
For the 2021 model year, GMC implemented minor enhancements such as wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Elevation Edition package was also introduced, offering blacked-out exterior accents and larger 20-inch wheels for a sportier appearance.
2022
In 2022, GMC phased out the 2.5 LCV inline-four engine that had been standard on the lower trim levels, introducing the turbocharged 2.0L LSY inline-four as the new entry-level powertrain; the optional 3.6L V6 LGX engine remained available. All powertrains continued to be mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The base SL trim was eliminated, elevating the SLE to the lowest trim offering. Furthermore, the five-passenger seating configuration was discontinued, impacting only the AT4 trim by removing its third-row seating.
Safety
Unlike the Chevrolet Traverse, the second-generation Acadia did not receive the IIHS "Top Safety Pick" designation because both of its headlight options were rated Marginal.
| Small overlap front (driver) | Good | |
| Small overlap front (passenger) | Good | |
| Moderate overlap front (original test) | Good | |
| Side (original test) | Good | |
| Side (updated test) | Poor | |
| Roof strength | Good | |
| Head restraints and seats | Good | |
| Headlights | Marginal | |
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian | Superior | Advanced |
| Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use | Acceptable | |
Third generation (2024)
Unveiled at the 2023 North American International Auto Show, the 2024 Acadia shifts back to a full-size SUV format to strengthen its position in the three-row crossover market. It accommodates seven or eight passengers and shares its wheelbase with the larger Yukon model.
Constructed on GM's VSS-S platform alongside the third-generation Chevrolet Traverse, this Acadia is exclusively equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine producing and of torque—marking an increase of 18 horsepower and 55 lb-ft compared to the former naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6. Standard technology features include a 15-inch tablet-style infotainment display and an 11-inch configurable instrument cluster. Seating options vary between dual second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat, depending on trim level.
The 2024 model range consists of four trims: base Elevation (which replaces SLE), mid-tier Elevation Premium (replacing SLT), off-road focused AT4, and premium Denali. For the first time, most trims are equipped with General Motors’ "Super Cruise," a semi-autonomous driving technology.
Production resumed at Michigan’s Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant, where it is built alongside the all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and the upcoming 2025 Buick Enclave.
Safety
The 2025 Acadia was recognized with the Top Safety Pick distinction by the IIHS.
| Small overlap front | Good | |
| Moderate overlap front (revised test) | Acceptable | |
| Side impact (revised test) | Good | |
| Headlamp performance | Good | Marginal |
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle 2.0 | Good | |
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian | Acceptable | |
| Seatbelt usage reminders | Good | |
Sales
| Year | United States | Canada | Australia | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 480 | |||
| 2007 | 72,765 | 6,067 | ||
| 2008 | 66,440 | 5,844 | ||
| 2009 | 53,820 | 4,197 | ||
| 2010 | 68,295 | 5,047 | ||
| 2011 | 79,288 | 5,207 | ||
| 2012 | 78,280 | 4,899 | ||
| 2013 | 89,793 | 4,741 | ||
| 2014 | 83,972 | 5,973 | ||
| 2015 | 96,393 | 6,452 | ||
| 2016 | 88,466 | 3,939 | ||
| 2017 | 111,276 | 5,380 | ||
| 2018 | 88,621 | 5,156 | 625 | |
| 2019 | 99,429 | 4,357 | 3,125 | |
| 2020 | 72,537 | 3,109 | 1,407 | |
| 2021 | '59,913 | '3,485 | ||
| '2022 | '53,014 | '3,420 | ||
| '2023 | '66,322 | '4,961 | ||
| '2024 | '49,178 | '3,321 |
External links
- Official website
- GMC Acadia featured on IMCDB