2009 GMC Acadia
- 2008 GMC Acadia
- Used GMC Acadia
Based on analysis of 47 Acadia reviews and test drives.
GMC Acadia - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 GMC Acadia ranks 5 out of 20 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Acadia, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Acadia offers an excellent combination of class-leading seating capacity, good cargo space and smooth ride quality. Built on the same platform as General Motors siblings Buick Enclave and Saturn Outlook, it's both affordable and luxurious.
"Acadia is tailor-made for buyers who need a minivan but don't want to drive one," says Consumer Guide. "This crossover is dynamically capable, comes standard with a host of safety features, and offers several unusual and useful options." These include heated and cooled front seats and a wireless cell phone link. The Acadia is GMC's first crossover vehicle and stands out for its three rows of usable seats and practical all-wheel drive. For 2009, it gets an updated V6 engine with more horsepower, as well as new interior options. If you can live without a third-row seat, consider the all-new Toyota Venza for even better fuel economy at a more affordable price.
General Motors, GMC's parent company, has recently declared bankruptcy. While the company says that business should continue as usual, the bankruptcy could add a layer of uncertainty for GM buyers. However, those who are able to stomach the uncertainty may be able to get a great deal on a new GMC. Check out What GM's Bankruptcy Means for You to answer any questions you have before buying.
The Acadia comes in three trims -- SLE-1, SLT-1 and SLT-2 -- which come with varying degrees of features. All-wheel drive is optional.
- "A week spent in each model showed the Acadia and Outlook to be competitive in virtually every respect with a pair of benchmarks, the Pilot and Toyota Highlander. And since the G.M. siblings performed as well -- and in some areas, better -- buyers who put a premium on passenger and cargo space may give them the edge." -- New York Times
- "My Bottom Line -- The Acadia is a very capable mid-size SUV with a great engine and plenty of room. Similarly equipped, it's about $10,000 less than the almost identical Cadillac SRX, but more than the almost-identical Saturn Outlook, which has less content." -- The Auto Channel
- "The Acadia is good at what it does, offering plenty of room even for large families. It provides a strong alternative for moms and dads or other people haulers who are too cool to be seen in a minivan, although we still maintain that minivans offer better packaging as long as ground clearance isn't on your list of must-haves." -- Car and Driver
Acadia Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
The 2009 GMC Acadia offers good performance, but falls short when compared to some of its quicker, more fun-to-drive rivals such as the Nissan Murano. The New York Times says the Acadia is "good for 0-to-60 miles an hour in a reasonable 8.1 seconds" -- a time that's "a bit slower than some competitors." continue
Acadia Exterior - 8.8 (Very Good)
The Acadia's somewhat nonconventional styling is a high point. U.S. News' Rick Newman calls it "Hot, especially when compared with most of the frumpmobiles that are capable of holding seven passengers." continue
Acadia Interior - 8.7 (Very Good)
Unlike most similarly sized SUVs, the 2009 Acadia's third-row seat can comfortably fit even tall adults. Additionally, its interior is surprisingly luxurious for its class and price range. "Though there are few padded surfaces, bright accents and richly grained plastics give the interior an inviting look," says Consumer Guide. The Acadia's fun interior options include a dual sunroof and rear entertainment system. continue
Acadia Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)
The 2009 GMC Acadia does extremely well in federal government crash tests. It's also an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "Top Safety Pick." The Acadia comes with a comprehensive set of six standard air bags and innovative safety options. continue
Acadia Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 GMC Acadia reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 GMC Acadia comes with GM's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
