2017 GMC Acadia review

1. Flexible configurations

If you need to keep friends, family, or community commitments on the move, the versatile 2017 Acadia is up to the challenge. The cabin itself is a roomy 151.8 cu-ft with seating for up to seven as standard. Broad rear doors and second-row Smart Slide seats that tip, pitch, and slide make for easy entry and exit. When you need to move boxes, furniture, or appliances, the low-loading liftgate takes the strain out of heavy lifting and packing. Storage space increases in one easy move too. Flip the third row down for 41.7 cu-ft of storage, or open up 79.0 cu-ft with both rear rows folded.

2. Everyone feels connected

Staying connected can mean different things to different people. For your Acadia passengers, however, there is something for everyone. Upfront, you'll have Bluetooth^® functionality as standard and access to your compatible smartphone apps via Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ connectivity. Built-in navigation is also available on the SLT and Denali trims.

Teens that want to stay looped into their social life will appreciate the 2017 Acadia's available OnStar^® Wi-Fi hotspot capability and rear-row USB charge ports.

3. Two punchy engine options

While the powertrain options on this midsize crossover are fairly straightforward, they are anything but basic. Powering the 2017 Acadia SL, SLE-1, SLE-2, and SLT-1 trims is a 2.5L direct-injection inline-four VVT engine with stop-start technology, a nice addition for your regular heavy traffic routes. Standard for the SLT-2 and Denali trims, and specialist AWD editions is a mighty 310-hp, 3.6L V6 engine equipped with GMCs Active Fuel Management system to monitor and adapt output intensity. Ride comfort remains a constant, however, so you can expect great outside noise insulation and smooth handling from either engine option.

4. All Terrain package

New for the 2017 model year is an Acadia off-road special edition package, the All Terrain. Exclusive to the SLE-2 and SLT-1 trims, this hefty off-road performance upgrade will take you and your crew to destinations off the beaten path. The change you'll notice first is that the All Terrain scraps the third row — instead offering more standard storage for outdoor equipment. Package highlights include an advanced all-wheel-drive system with active twin-clutch for torque-to-wheel delivery where it's needed most, plus you'll also get 20-inch wheels and hill descent control for slow pre-set speeds on downward or rocky trails.

5. Helpful cabin features

For responsible caregivers, carpool organizers, and older siblings that plan family trips during the holiday season, the detailed perks and helpful features on the 2017 Acadia will make your job much easier. The standard rear privacy glass and cup holders throughout the cabin (up to 10 on the seven-seater models) keep everyone comfortable on long trips. For map and book reading, front- and second-row lights make things easier when it's dark out. Discrete storage can be found under the cargo floor, while the deep center console upfront keeps trip essentials and onboard snacks up close yet out of sight.