GMC wanted to create some much-needed buzz during the 2023 Detroit Auto Show. In an event where minor refreshes and mid-cycle updates dominated the assembled media’s attention, GMC was the only one to debut a revamped model, the 2024 GMC Acadia, which is bigger and more tech-filled than ever.
Acadia Exterior Styling Channels Yukon DNA, Interior Goes Fully Digital
The exterior styling of the 2024 GMC Acadia shares a lot of its inspiration with the bigger Yukon SUV, with the front grille and headlights all being very reminiscent of that model. The SUV is also larger in virtually every category, with GM/Buick Global Brand Vice-President Duncan Alred claiming that storage behind the third-row seats has increased by 80 percent. In comparison, the second row gets a 36 percent increase in space, which pays dividends for both cargo and people hauling. The AT4 and the Denali return for 2024, and both offer unique upgrades, with the AT4 getting a dual-clutch rear differential for its all-wheel-drive system and other trail-ready features, while the Denali gets 22-inch wheels, laser etched wood accents and diamond quilted leather seats.
Front seat occupants also get to see a dash and center console layout that’s radically different when compared to the outgoing model and even more different than its corporate running mate, the Chevrolet Traverse. An 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15-inch portrait-style infotainment system are standard across the entire lineup. The latter screen can be operated with a small bank of buttons with a large knob in the middle serving as the volume control and multimedia functions. The Acadia will also be the latest GM offering to come with Google Built-In technology, with the software suite allowing owners to access various apps and features. In a rather curious move, GMC didn’t confirm whether it had Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (both features being dropped in GM’s EV models.) However, it’s safe to assume that both will be offered to help retain a degree of familiarity for tech-focused buyers.
Super Cruise with trailering assistance will also be available on select Acadia trims, and GMC is even filtering it down out of the Denali model, with the AT4 and the Elevation trims also getting access to this optional piece of equipment. A nine-view camera system is also part of the package, and there are more than 20 different driver assist features that also come bundled in standard too.
Acadia Gets One Size Fits All Performance
GMC has been simplifying the powertrain options for some of its models in recent years. The 2024 Acadia is no exception, with all models being powered by a 328-horsepower 2.5-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder. An eight-speed automatic is still the lone transmission on hand, and front-wheel drive will continue to be the base layout, with optional all-wheel drive remaining available on most Acadia models. The AT4 is a prominent exception to this rule, with the trail-ready trim having the system standard.
GMC wasn’t ready to share final fuel economy numbers yet, and for now, it appears that no hybrid model is also in the works either. That has always been the case with prior iterations of the Acadia, Traverse, and Buick Enclave, but with fuel economy and electrification becoming increasingly important in the family vehicle ranks, their continued reluctance to embrace some form of electrification becomes more and more apparent.
When Can I Buy One?
In addition to fuel economy, GMC was also not ready to talk about final pricing for the lineup just yet but look for that information to be revealed closer to its official launch later this year. The Acadia will enter the fray against a strong pool of three-row SUV contenders including the Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, and the Ford Explorer.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.