2017 GMC Acadia: A Family-Friendly Midsize SUV
The 2017 GMC Acadia underwent a significant redesign, shifting from a larger, truck-based SUV to a more refined, car-based crossover. This change brought about a more manageable size, improved fuel economy, and a focus on family-oriented features, making it a compelling option in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2017 Acadia offered two distinct powertrain options:
- Standard 2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine: This engine provided a balance of efficiency and adequate power for daily commuting and city driving. It was generally paired with front-wheel drive.
- Optional 3.6L V6 Engine: The more powerful V6 engine offered enhanced acceleration and towing capability, making it a better choice for those who frequently carry passengers or haul cargo. This engine was available with both front-wheel drive and GMC's All-Wheel Drive system.
- Advanced Safety Features: GMC equipped the 2017 Acadia with a suite of available safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents:
- Forward Collision Alert: Uses cameras and radar to detect potential front-end collisions and warns the driver.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.
- Lane Keep Assist: Actively helps steer the vehicle back into its lane if it detects unintentional drifting.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Detects vehicles in the driver's blind spots and provides visual and audible warnings.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking space.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid a frontal collision if the driver doesn't react.
- StabiliTrak, Electronic Stability Control System: Helps maintain control of the vehicle during challenging driving conditions by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power.
- Trim Level Breakdown: The 2017 Acadia was offered in several distinct trims, each offering increasing levels of luxury and features:
- Acadia SL (Base): The entry-level model, offering essential features for a comfortable and safe ride.
- Acadia SLE: Adds more comfort and convenience features over the SL, often including upgraded infotainment and seating options. Typically available in SLE-1 and SLE-2 configurations with varying feature sets.
- Acadia SLT: Represents a significant step up in luxury, usually including leather-appointed seating, advanced audio systems, and enhanced driver-assistance technologies. Available in SLT-1 and SLT-2.
- Acadia Denali: The flagship trim, boasting premium materials, distinctive styling cues, and the most comprehensive list of advanced features, including a more powerful engine as standard on some configurations and more advanced suspension.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Refined Interior: The redesigned cabin was praised for its premium materials, comfortable seating (available with seven or eight seats depending on configuration), and quiet ride.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: GMC's IntelliLink infotainment system was generally intuitive to use and offered smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) on most trims.
- Maneuverability: The Acadia's smaller footprint compared to its predecessor made it easier to maneuver in urban environments and park.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 GMC Acadia typically offers a comfortable and family-oriented driving experience. The ride is generally smooth and composed, absorbing road imperfections well. The cabin is well-insulated, providing a quiet environment for passengers. For daily commutes and family errands, the Acadia is a capable and practical choice.
Maintenance: Like most modern SUVs, regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the Acadia. This includes:
- Oil changes: Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles, or as recommended by the owner's manual based on driving conditions.
- Tire rotations: Usually every 6,000-8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
- Brake inspections and fluid checks: Essential for safety and performance.
- Transmission fluid changes: Important for the smooth operation of the automatic transmission, with recommended intervals often around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type.
- Coolant flushes and spark plug replacements: Generally recommended at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 100,000 miles or more).
Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2017 GMC Acadia will vary significantly based on individual factors such as your age, driving record, location, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim and optional features of the vehicle. Generally, midsize SUVs are in a moderate insurance cost bracket. The inclusion of advanced safety features can sometimes lead to slightly lower premiums due to their accident-prevention capabilities.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Acadia offers many positives, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Third-Row Space: Although the Acadia offers three rows of seating, the third row is best suited for children or occasional use by adults due to its relatively limited legroom and headroom. Access to the third row can also be a bit tight.
- Base Engine Performance: While adequate for everyday driving, the standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine can feel underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded or when attempting to merge onto a highway quickly. The V6 engine is a noticeable upgrade in performance.
- Fuel Economy with V6 and AWD: While improved over its predecessor, the V6 engine, especially when paired with All-Wheel Drive, will naturally consume more fuel than the four-cylinder option, particularly in city driving.
- Transmission Behavior: Some owners have reported that the automatic transmission can occasionally be hesitant to downshift, particularly with the base engine, which might require more planning for acceleration.
Overall Summary
The 2017 GMC Acadia represents a successful transformation into a more modern and family-focused midsize crossover. Its refined interior, comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and available advanced safety features make it a strong contender for those seeking a versatile and practical vehicle for daily life and family adventures. While the third-row space is not its strongest suit and the base engine may leave some wanting more power, the Acadia generally delivers a well-rounded and enjoyable ownership experience, particularly for those who prioritize comfort, safety, and a more manageable size.
