2017 GMC Acadia: less weight and more power

Published on January 12, 2016 in Detroit by Gabriel Gélinas

The GMC brand chose the Detroit Auto Show to present the 2017 Acadia. It went on a serious diet, shedding 700 lbs. compared to the outgoing generation. Its size has also decreased, as the new Acadia is shorter by 7.2 inches while its wheelbase has been cut by 6.4 inches. Despite its more compact dimensions, the 2017 GMC Acadia will still offer three rows of seats with configurations for five, six or seven passengers.

Two new engines will be available. The first one is a 3.6-litre V6 that develops 310 horsepower, although those who need a vehicle for towing might be disappointed to hear that maximum pulling capacity has gone down from 5,200 to 4,000 lbs. The second engine is a 2.5-litre four cylinder, and both are connected to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Acadia will ride on a front-wheel drivetrain, on an optional AWD setup or on an All Terrain system that will enhance its off-road capabilities.

As for looks, the new Acadia retains certain styling cues that are exclusive to this type of vehicle, but its bodywork has been thoroughly redesigned. The 2017 GMC Acadia will arrive in the spring of 2016.