2018 GMC Acadia review

1. Roomy and comfortable three-row cabin

The 2018 GMC Acadia may look like a regular midsize crossover SUV on the outside, but it's actually far bigger on the inside than you might expect. Depending on the configuration you choose, there's seating for up to seven passengers, with either a second-row bench seat as standard on SL and SLE-1 trims, or captain's chairs, which drop seating to six, as standard on SLE-2 trims upwards. Regardless of configuration, all three rows offer decent legroom: 41 inches in the front row, 39.7 inches in the second row, and 31.1 inches in the third row.

2. Two available engine options

The 2018 GMC Acadia has two engine options to choose from, both offering a useful mix of power and everyday versatility - especially for a vehicle of this size. The standard engine on SL, SLE, and SLT-1 trims is a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, packing 193 horsepower and able to achieve an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, with two-wheel-drive models capable of achieving 26 mpg on the highway.

On SLT-2 and Denali models, that engine is a 3.6L V6, increasing power output up to 310 horsepower while still achieving an EPA-estimated 25 mpg on the highway.

3. Generous feature list from standard

With even base models packing a lengthy list of standard features, the 2018 GMC Acadia is well-equipped regardless of which trim level you choose. That lengthy list of features on the base SL and SLE-1 trims include tri-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ integration, rear-seat USB ports, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot.

Pick an SLT-equipped model if you want leather upholstery and a Bose^® eight-speaker sound system, and the premium Denali trim rounds things off with a hands-free liftgate and heated and power-adjustable steering wheel.

4. Full suite of driver convenience features

Several additional packages are available for the 2018 GMC Acadia, including two Driver Alert packages which offer a comprehensive suite of driver convenience technologies. The Driver Alert I package adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, as well as rear parking sensors, and is an option on SLE-2 trims and standard on SLT-1 trims upwards. On SLT-2 trims upwards, you also get the Driver Alert II package, which adds lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and more. Keep an eye out for these if you want extra peace of mind on those long drives.

5. All-terrain package

If you find yourself yearning for adventures off the beaten track or just want some extra stability in slippery weather conditions, the 2018 GMC Acadia's available all-wheel drive and All Terrain package are must-haves. All Acadia models aside from the base SL can be found with all-wheel-drive, with the All Terrain package available on SLE-2 and SLT-1 trims. Included in the All Terrain package are the V6 engine, an enhanced all-wheel-drive system, and hill descent control; all of which help the Acadia remain sure-footed on rough terrain and in tricky conditions.