The 2008 GMC Acadia crossover utility vehicle is carried over from its introduction in '07. It marks a departure from other large GM SUVs that are built on the same platform as General Motors' pick-up truck line. It joins the GMC model lineup positioned between the mid size Envoy and the traditionally truck-based full-sized Yukon.
The departure from a body-on frame SUV results in ride height that is 3 inches lower than other GM SUV's, giving it better handling characteristics.
The full-size Acadia is GMC's first "CUV" or crossover utility vehicle. It's also the first vehicle available in front wheel drive from the brand known for its rear and 4-wheel-drive trucks. Whether you choose the front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive version, there is one power train available, a 3.6 Liter V-6 mated to a 6-speed electronically controlled automatic with overdrive. This combination provides 275 horsepower and 251 pound feet of torque, enough to give the Acadia a towing capacity of 4500 pounds.
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS provide the stopping power to bring the nearly 5,000 pound SUV to rest. The Acadia's handling is augmented by stability control and rollover prevention technologies.
The All Wheel Drive Arcadia, like the one we drove delivers an EPA estimated 16-MPG City/24 Highway.
There are three trims, SLE-1, SLT-1 and SLT-2. The two upper trims get a premium 10-speaker Bose system with a six-CD in-dash changer. Features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, power seats and tri-zone automatic climate control are also available in the higher trims. For 2008, 8 passenger seating and satellite radio are both standard on the base SLE trim, while a rear view camera comes standard on the upper trims.
State of the art airbag technology is provided throughout the vehicle including head curtain side-impact protection for all outboard occupants.
Base MSRP for the 2008 Front Wheel Drive Acadia is $29,735. The AWD version in SLT-2 trim level will cost around $45,000. GMC power train warranty coverage is for 5-years or 100,000 miles and comes with roadside assistance and courtesy transportation, a welcome touch.
The Acadia...more than just a pretty new face in the GMC lineup...as it combines the best features of a large wagon and an SUV to deliver comfort, practicality and more than a dose of luxury.