Instead of "go big or go home," GMC focused on "light makes right" with the second-generation Acadia. Built to comply with more stringent fuel economy standards while matching key rivals' dimensions, the three-row Acadia is 7-inches shorter, 4-inches narrower, and 500-pounds lighter. The result is a competitive, practical, and pleasant family hauler.
The slimmed-down body and 310-hp, 3.6-liter V6 help scoot the all-wheel-drive Acadia away from competitors, hitting 60 mph in a rapid 6.8 seconds. Power delivery is smooth, but the six-speed automatic gives the occasional jolty shift. Although fuel economy is up to 19 mpg overall, the Acadia still trails its peers. If kept in front-drive mode, you'll gain 1 mpg on the highway.