The current generation of GMC’s mid-size crossover has been around since 2016 and the latest reports suggest it will be completely redesigned for the 2024 model year. That clearly indicates that the 2023 GMC Acadia will represent the final production year of the current generation, which also means that more notable updates are not expected. We expect to see a familiar design, along with pretty much the same list of standard equipment.
All this means that you may expect to see a familiar layout, an SUV that still has a couple of good things to offer, despite the age. We like its good fuel economy, as well as the ride quality. Also, the infotainment system is easy to use. On the other hand, the main complaints go to things like subpar interior quality, tight third row and small cargo area.
Since there are no significant changes to come, we expect that the 2023 GMC Acadia will hit the market sometime late in 2022.
2023 GMC Acadia Design
As we’ve just mentioned, this will be the final production year of the current generation. Therefore, we expect to see a familiar layout, based on the familiar C1 platform. This model shares parts with models like Chevy Traverse and Cadillac XT6 and therefore, the ride quality is similar as well. The SUV is comfortable, though it isn’t particularly fun to drive.
On the other side, the styling has been updated in 2020. For that occasion, we saw a completely new front end, with a more massive grille, new headlights and a bolder overall appearance. We are pretty sure that the 2023 GMC Acadia won’t feature any particular change, though there is always room for minor tweaks, including new color options.
The off-road-oriented AT4 trim will also continue in the same way, with lots of exclusive styling details and mechanical upgrades like upgraded AWD system, hill descent control etc.
Interior
The same thing goes for interior design. We don’t expect to see any significant upgrades, so the overall cabin layout is about to remain the same. This cabin has never been particularly attractive but these days, it really starts to show its age. Furthermore, the materials aren’t particularly impressive, as many areas feature hard plastics.
When it comes to the interior space, this crossover measures around 112 inches in wheelbase, which is quite typical for the segment. Therefore, the passenger room is also quite typical. The first two rows are spacious and comfortable, while the third row feels cramped. The driving position is good, while the visibility is also pretty good in all directions.
When it comes to the cargo area, you may count on about 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, 41.7 cubic feet behind the second and 79 cubic feet in total. That’s below average for the class.
Features
Novelties in this aspect are always possible but we don’t believe that the 2023 GMC Acadia could come with too many of them. Most of the things will remain the same as in the current model, which comes standard with goodies like tri-zone climate control, push-button start, an 8-inch touch screen, a six-speaker stereo, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hot spot, USB ports, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, you can get upgrades like remote start, navigation, wireless device charging, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, HD Radio, rear-seat entertainment system, dual-pane sunroof etc.
When it comes to safety features, all models should come standard with a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, lane departure warning etc.
2023 GMC Acadia Engines
The base naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine has been discontinued and there are just two engine options on the offer now. The 2023 GMC Acadia will continue in the same way. So, base models will use a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Driving dynamics are good enough to satisfy most drivers but if you prefer something peppier, you can opt for a 3.6-liter V6, which puts out around 310 horsepower. Both engines come in pair with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
When it comes to fuel economy, the base engine returns around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is pretty good for the class. On the other hand, the V6 is notably thirstier and returns around 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
2023 GMC Acadia Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 GMC Acadia will hit the market sometime in the last quarter of 2022, with a starting price of around 35.000 dollars. When it comes to competition, the segment is pretty tough. Some of the key players are models like Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Chevy Traverse etc.