GMC Acadia – the brand's first crossover – helped define a segment that has surged in popularity since its 2007 launch. The Denali model, added in mid-2010, broadened Acadia's appeal to luxury customers with its combination of functionality and style. For 2013, Acadia and Acadia Denali introduce new exterior styling, greater interior versatility and more safety features, including the industry's first front center air bag, as well as a new infotainment system with touch-screen controls. The Acadia lineup includes SLE, SLT (SLT1 and SLT2 trims) and Denali models, with seven- or eight-passenger configurations. All models are powered by a 3.6L V-6 VVT engine that uses gasoline direct injection technology to optimize performance and fuel economy. The engine is paired with Acadia's fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission to help give FWD models an estimated 9.8L/100km on the highway. The transmission controls have been revised for 2013 to provide quicker and more consistent shifts, for a higher-quality feel behind the wheel. All-wheel drive is available. The Acadia also is capable of towing up to 2,364 kg when properly equipped. The Acadia's 3.6L engine's direct injection technology helps produce power similar to many V-8 engines and uses regular unleaded gasoline. It is rated at 288 horsepower and 366Nm of torque. Ninety percent of the engine's peak torque is available from approximately 2,500 rpm to more than 6,000 rpm. The 3.6L engine is mated to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 six-speed automatic transmission, an advanced transmission with clutch-to-clutch shift operation for front- and all-wheel-drive vehicles. It also offers automatic grade braking, shift stabilization and precise shift control, as well as hill start assist. The available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system provides increased traction on slippery roads by actively managing the torque distribution between the front and rear axles, based on factors such as wheel speed, throttle and surface conditions. There is no driver intervention: The system automatically decides how much torque to apply and delivers it to the wheels that have the best traction. Acadia for 2013 retains the interior functionality popular with families, including the SmartSlide seating system, which allows easy access to the third row for both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. Likewise, both the second and third row still fold flat for class-leading maximum cargo space. The 2013 Acadia has a new chiseled, three-bar grille that sits prominently in a more upright design, while diffused LED running lamps lend a premium look. They are standard on all models, including the standard projector-beam headlamps and foglamps. A new LED taillamp design reflects the advancements up front. Additional exterior updates include wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. Acadia also introduces new 19- and 20-inch wheel designs that complement the redesigned exterior's lines and stance. A body-frame integral structure enables lower entry/exit height for Acadia passengers. The front door step-in height is only 480 mm, and the rear door step-in height is 503 mm. Entry to the second- and third-row seats is easy with very wide rear doors and GM's exclusive Smart Slide second-row seat feature. The Acadia's design is sleek and highlighted by chrome accents and large wheels, including 20-inch wheels on Denali models. Halogen projector-beam headlamps are standard on SLE and SLT models, while Acadia Denali comes with standard high-intensity discharge headlamps (available on SLT2). Additional standard and available exterior features include power liftgate is standard on SLE, SLT and Denali models; chrome door handles are standard on all models; 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. – SG
