2013 GMC Acadia Test Drive

?2013 GMC Acadia features new styling, safety and infotainment?

Acadia became GMC?s first crossover, helping to define the increasingly popular segment since its launch in 2007. The Denali model was added to GMC?s growing portfolio in 2010. For the 2013 model year, the 2013 GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali bow with new exterior styling, greater interior versatility and added safety features, including the industry?s first front center air bag, as well as a new infotainment system with touch-screen controls.

The Acadia stable consists of five trim levels: SLE? in SLE1 and SLE2 trims; SLT in SLT1 and SLT2 trims and Denali models, available in seven- or eight-passenger configurations. All models are propelled by a 3.6L V-6 DOHC 24-valve, V6 VVT engine that uses gasoline direct injection technology providing both performance and fuel economy optimization. The transversely front mounted V6 cranks out 288 horses at 6,300 rpm while developing 270 pound feet of torque at 3,400 rpm. Motive force is geared to either the front wheels or (available) all four wheels via a Hydra-Matic 6T75 6-speed automatic transmission.? The 2013 GMC Acadia is tow rated at up to 5,200 pounds when properly outfitted.

The 2013 Acadia retains its interior functionality, including the SmartSlide seating system, which allows for easy access to the third row in both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. Both the second and third row seats still fold flat for class-leading maximum cargo space, with the ability to carry 48-inch-wide sheet goods, such as drywall and plywood.

The 2013 Acadia features a new chiseled, three-bar grille that sits prominently in a more upright design, while diffused LED running lamps lend a more upscale premium look. The LED running lights are standard on all models, along with the standard projector-beam headlamps and foglamps. A new LED taillamp design reflects the front end flavor. Additional exterior updates include wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. New 18, 19 and 20-inch wheel designs are also offered.

The Acadia?s design is sleek and aerodynamic, and is highlighted by chrome accents and large wheels. Halogen projector-beam headlamps are standard on SL, SLE and SLT models, while Acadia Denali comes with standard high-intensity discharge headlamps (available on SLT2). Other standard and available exterior features include: a Power liftgate (standard on SLE2, SLT and Denali models); chrome door handles are standard on all models; and outside heated power-adjustable, power-folding mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, body-color with integrated turn signal indicators are standard on SLT2 and Denali vehicles.

Moving to the interior, The 2013 Acadia?s cabin utilizes upgraded soft-touch materials, with French stitching and red ambient lighting that flows across the dashboard. SLT and Denali models receive aluminum accents on the center console, doors and dash. The instrument panel serves up a car-like ambience, enhancing the feeling of openness while providing a commanding outward view.

All Acadia models offer three rows of seating that may be configured for seven or eight passengers, regardless of the trim level. The seating configurations include two front bucket seats, a 60/40-split second-row bench (three passengers) or two second-row captain?s chairs (two passengers) and a 60/40-split third-row bench seat. GM?s exclusive Smart Slide feature is standard, allowing quick and easy access to the third-row seating area. The second-row seat cushion flips up while the seatback slides forward, effectively compressing the space occupied by the seat with the pull of a lever. The Smart Slide system also allows the second row to be positioned fore/aft. Storage space of 24.1 cu. ft. is available behind the third-row seat (with the cargo management system removed). Maximum available storage capability behind the first row of seats is 115.9 cu. ft. A Center console with sliding armrest and storage is standard on all models.

Acadia rides on a 118.9-inch wheelbase, with wide 67.3-inch front and 67.4-inch rear tracks ?lowering the center of gravity and enabling smooth, stable ride and handling characteristics. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering is standard; variable-effort steering is available, and four-wheel disc brakes with antilock are standard on all models, with additional brake features including dynamic rear proportioning, hydraulic brake boost and panic brake assist.

Safety features and equipment abound in the Acadia: standard head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for all seating rows; roof-mounted head curtain air bags include design features that provide increased rollover protection and occupant containment; StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology is standard on all models incorporating full-function traction control; A Rearview camera system is standard on all models; standard four-wheel-disc brake system with ABS; pretensioners on the front safety belts; LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat attachment system is included in all second-row seating positions; standard tire pressure monitoring system; standard remote keyless entry system provides a second function for the red panic button. Drivers can use it to locate their vehicle without sounding the panic alarm. Six months of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on Acadia.

SUMMARY: ?My test 2013 GMC Acadia came in SLT-1 trim in a front wheel drive configuration. It sported a Crystal Red metallic Tintcoat exterior and an Ebony interior. The base sticker read $39,780 which rose to $45,165 after adding: the Navigation and Ra=ear seat Entertainment system; the Power sunroof with second row skylight; trailering equipment, metallic paint; and Destination charge.

To be sure, there are larger SUVs as well as smaller SUVs than the 2013 GMC Acadia. It is categorized as a full size SUV, but it seems to be optimally packaged and fills the bill as ?just right?. It also comes across as just right, not just in feature and equipment content, but in the performance department as well.

This latest Acadia has not only improved its styling to a more appealing level – it wasn?t unattractive before mind you, but it is more comfortable and provides more versatility and functionality too, while being loaded with safety technology.

Bottom line, if you?re in the market for a full sized SUV, the Acadia qualifies as front-runner, and if there?s something that it doesn?t have, chances are you don?t really need it.

[wptabs style=”wpui-light” effect=”slide” mode=”horizontal”]
?[wptabtitle] SPECIFICATIONS: 2013 GMC Acadia SLT-1 FWD [/wptabtitle]
?? [wptabcontent]

Base Price:	$39,780.
Price as Tested:	$45,165.
Engine Type and Size:	3.6-liter DOHC 24-valve, V6 with Direct Injection and Variable Valve Timing.
Horsepower (bhp):	288 @ 6,300 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.):	270 @ 3,400 rpm
Transmission:	Hydra-Matic 6T75 6-speed automatic.
Drive Train:	Transversely mounted front engine / Front-Wheel Drive.
Suspension:	Front – Coil-over strut; direct acting stabilizer bar; full perimeter isolated cradle. Rear – Linked H-arm independent suspension; coil springs with twin-tube shock absorbers mounted on isolated sub-frame.
Brakes:	Power-assisted four-wheel ventilated discs with ABS, StabiliTrak, ETC, and ESC with rollover mitigation.
Tires:	Goodyear Eagle RS-A P 255/60 R19 108H mounted on 6-“Geo Can-Opener” spoke cast aluminum alloy wheels.
Wheelbase:	118.9 inches
Length Overall:	200.8 inches
Width:	78.9 inches
Height:	72.6 inches – with roof rails.
Curb Weight:	4,656 lbs.
Fuel Capacity:	22.0 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates:	17-mpg city / 24-mpg highway
Drag Coefficient:	Not listed.
0 – 60 mph:	Not tested.