Is the 2023 GMC Acadia a Good Buy?

The GMC Acadia is a good buy, offering an extensive suite of features starting at a reasonable price. With four different trims to choose from, you are sure to find a GMC Acadia for sale that has everything you want and need. This midsize SUV stands out in an overly saturated class. That is a difficult thing to do, yet somehow, the Acadia does it. Starting from the SLE and working our way up, it’s clear to see the Acadia has plenty to offer.

The Acadia SLE

Despite being the entry-level trim, the SLE still feels like it offers an incredible array of lux features. Beneath the hood lies a 2.0L turbo I-4 engine complete with fuel-efficient Stop/Start technology. The turbo is a direct injection engine which results in better fuel efficiency and better start times. Plus, with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the Acadia SLE is well-equipped for the road.

StabiliTrak comes standard on all trims, which is a technology that improves traction control. StabiliTrak uses sensors to provide backup in situations such as drifting, loss of traction, and more. Combined with upgraded suspension components, the Acadia line-up provides a smooth and controlled ride. The front is decked out with MacPherson strut coil springs and a stabilizer bar for twists and turns. The rear features an independent five-link rear suspension for improved ride quality.

Another feature that is standard across the board is Traction Select. This feature enables the driver to choose specific drive modes based on the conditions they are driving in. Since the SLE comes standard as front-wheel drive, it includes Normal, Snow, Sport, and Trailer/Tow modes.

Of course, all trim levels, including the base SLE, come equipped with all of the latest and greatest safety features like Automatic Braking, Front and Rear Park Assist, Lane Change Alert, and a whole slew of other fantastic safety features. In fact, one of the few safety features that is not included or available for the SLE is the Safety Alert Seat. To help the driver act quicker, the Safety Alert Seat uses vibrations or beeps to help identify from which side a collision may occur. This feature is standard on all other trims.

Much like the rest of the trims, the SLE is designed with comfort features to cater to everyone, not just the driver. Features such as tri-zone climate control don’t just accommodate the driver. Three separate climate controls mean customizing comfort levels. All trims include hotspot capabilities, taking passenger comfort to the next level.

The Acadia SLT

One step up is the SLT trim. Enjoy everything that makes the SLE so great but with a few interior and exterior upgrades. Both the SLE and the SLT include an eight-inch infotainment screen, but the SLT also throws in navigation to make everyday driving that much easier. For the driver, they get the added luxury of an eight-way power adjustable seat, complete with lumbar control. The seats are completed with beautiful leather, enhancing the overall feel of the cabin.

The SLT and remaining trims also include a self-dimming rearview mirror that dims automatically when it senses bright lights behind you. Convenience and safety in one. Remote start is another added convenience feature available on the SLT and up. Start your Acadia from the comfort of home so it can heat up or cool off before you’re ready to leave. There are a few other upgrades, but it is the exterior that will take your focus.

Standard on the SLT and above is a programmable liftgate. Use your foot to open the liftgate courtesy of sensors or one of three other options which include keyless entry. Furthermore, you can program the liftgate to open to a specified height to make it easier than ever to load and unload. Aluminum roof rails and wheels are specific to the SLT, setting your vehicle apart.

The Acadia AT4

The AT4 is the all-terrain version of the Acadia, offering off-road adventures for those who seek it. The AT4 gets a bit of a boost in the power area with a 3.6L V6 engine at its core. 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque are enough of a bump to help you on the road less traveled. Much like the turbo, this engine includes Stop/Start technology to increase fuel efficiency, along with the use of Active Fuel Management.

The AT4 is the only trim that you will find at your local GMC dealer that comes standard with all-wheel drive, and it utilizes Active Torque Control to provide better control when the road gets rough. The AT4 offers Traction Select and will be equipped with different modes than those you will find on the front-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive Traction Select modes include 4×4 (AWD), 2×4 (AWD Disconnect), Sport, Off-Road, and Trailer/Tow.

For tricky terrain, the AT4 is also equipped with Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. Hill Descent Control can be activated with the push of a button, adding extra control and safety through automatic braking. Hill Start Assist kicks in when on an incline, keeping you from rolling as you switch from stop to go.

The Acadia Denali

Finally, we reach the top of the line, which is the Denali trim. The Denali is set apart with a special grille unique to this trim. Different style roof rails, door handles, and wheels also add to the Denali’s unique appearance. The inside also receives a few upgrades worthy of the top trim.

Heated seats in the front and the outboard back seats, along with a heated steering wheel, provide additional comfort for cold days. The driver not only gets to enjoy a heated seat but also the convenience of a memory function that will recall seat position and mirror position. Included is a head-up display for the driver to enjoy, which provides important information displayed on the dashboard for safety and convenience.

Acadia Packages

There are more ways to customize your Acadia than just by choosing a trim. The Acadia has two unique special edition packages available. The first is called the Elevation Edition. The appearance is upgraded with this package, offering a more sleek and refined look. Gloss-black wheels add pizazz and match the black mirror caps and the gloss-black roof rails. Even the grille is changed up to a black insert with a black surround accent.

The other package available is the Denali Black Diamond. This elite style package offers a truly special exterior with a metallic finish in Ebony Twilight. The wheels are done up in an After Midnight finish, unique to the Black Diamond package. The aesthetics are finished off with a power moonroof. But it isn’t just about looks with this one. The all-wheel drive version is available with Adaptive Ride Control for a smooth and controlled ride. A Denali Technology Package and Trailering Package are also included. These packages include everything from a factory-installed hitch to High-Definition Surround Vision.

A whole swat team of basic packages is also available on select trim levels. With just shy of twenty additional packages, customization is easy. For example, the Adventure Package includes all-weather floor mats and a cargo liner, along with roof-rack cross rails for easy hauling. Not what you’re looking for? Consider the Preferred Package with heated seats, outside mirrors, lumbar control, and more.

Whatever add-on you’re looking for, the Acadia has it. Whether you are looking for an infotainment upgrade or a technology upgrade, consider one of the many options available. Of course, every Acadia comes standard with the safety package because GMC knows what’s important.

A Smart Decision

The Acadia is a fantastic SUV filled with everything you could hope to have. You don’t have to break the bank to have a great-looking, reliable, safe, and tech-filled vehicle. Plus, with so many packages and trims, there is sure to be an option that’s right for you. If you have questions or just want to come and check out some different Acadia options, then contact us or come to visit Ryan Buick GMC today.