When you drive a used GMC Acadia, you join an elite club of Acadia drivers throughout the years. Here’s a look back at where the Acadia came from and where it’s going.
Welcome To The Road
The first GMC Acadia hit the road in 2007. GMC wanted an SUV that was a little larger than some of its other options, like the Terrain, but not as big as its massive Yukon. If Goldie Locks found herself shopping for an SUV, she’d find that a used GMC Acadia is just right.
This SUV started with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that pushed out an incredible 275 horsepower and 251 lb0ft of torque. This configuration remained the same until 2008, when the engine bumped out its output to 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It wasn’t until 2016 that GMC gave this popular SUV a similar 2.6-liter V6 that offered 310.
Nothing Wrong With Living In Denali
The top-level trim for the Acadia has always been the Denali. Early Acadia drivers didn’t end up having a chance to drive a choice model until 2010. The first Denali came with chrome accents, a customized exhaust tip, 20-inch wheels, and a ton of upscale interior upgrades.
The newest Denali now comes with a range of incredible upgrades:
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Wireless charging
• Head-up display
• Power-folding heated mirrors
• And more
Welcome To The Second Generation
In 2017, GMC decided to officially call the Acadia a mid-size, which meant making it just a touch smaller than it was before. A first-generation used GMC Acadia is about seven inches longer and 3.5 inches wider.
The new generation brought on a new seat configuration. You now have the option of a five, six, or seven-seater. That means you have to pay attention when buying a used GMC Acadia to ensure that you get the seating configuration you need.
The second-generation launched with two engine options:
• 2.5-liter I4 with 194 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque
• 3.6-liter V6 with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque
What’s New in 2021?
Even if you find yourself in a used GMC Acadia, it’s still nice to know what’s coming on the horizon. The newest Acadia has a few new features that might make you consider trading up your current ride, but not enough changes to make your current Acadia feel outdated.
The newest Acadia is still part of the second generation, so there are only some minor changes to trim option packages, like black wheels and exterior trim on the Elevation Edition. The third generation Acadia isn’t expected for a few more years.
The biggest upgrades you’ll find in a new SUV vs. a used GMC Acadia involves technology. While some pre-owned Acadia may have driver-assist systems, infotainment, etc., you may not find everything you want on every model and year. The newest models often come standard with features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.
An SUV For Every Generation
If you’re in the market for a used GMC Acadia, you still have plenty of options. There was even a short time when brand-new first and second generations were being sold side by side. That means you can easily still find a used, larger first-gen Acadia in great shape. If you want something a little newer, a second-gen Acadia might just be your best bet. Regardless of which version you choose, you won’t be disappointed. That’s for sure.
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