Over the past few auto shows, GMC hasn’t had anything new to show off. That changes at Chicago with the 2013 GMC Acadia. It is an update to the hot-selling large crossover that debuted for the 2007 model year.
Since then, it has sold very well and generated conquest sales from other brands. As with anything though, continuous improvement is necessary. While still very competitive, it has been getting a bit long in the tooth after years on the market. A mid-cycle enhancement is exactly what it needs to stay fresh, and GMC really brought it with this update. GMC’s tagline is “We are Professional Grade.” GMC has always been about trucks, and the new 2013 Acadia pays homage to that tradition.
Sleek and car-like is thrown out the window for this update, with a very bold and in-your-face new design that we love. Its modern, fresh and unique. You probably won’t mistake the Acadia for anything else on the road. If there is one quibble, its that from some angles it seems a bit grafted on. When the Acadia debuted in 2007, it was along with its Saturn Outlook counterpart. That model is long gone along with the rest of the Saturn brand, but out back the Acadia’s taillights look very similar.
Inside, GMC keeps things fresh with a redesigned center stack and upgraded materials. When the Lambads debuted, they were at the top of their class in interior design. After a few years they have fallen behind a bit. This update changes that, adding ambient lighting, soft touch materials on the dash, and offering new technology.
As far as safety, the Acadia includes GM’s class-exclusive and industry-first front center airbag. This new restraint system is designed to protect the driver and front passenger in side-impact crashes. The engine package remains the same, with the Acadia’s powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine making 288 horsepower.
Overall, the Acadia really shows the level GMC design has advanced to. After seeing the Acadia we can’t wait for what else the brand has in store. We’re particularly looking forward to the next-generation Sierra trucks and Yukon SUVs, which are just around the corner.
