2020 GMC Acadia First Look - Edmunds.com

When GMC redesigned the Acadia a few years ago, it made a host of improvements to quality, comfort and technology. Unfortunately, the new Acadia retained the old six-speed automatic transmission, which hurt acceleration and fuel economy, and it came standard with a somewhat overmatched four-cylinder engine. The Acadia's fraternal twin, the Chevrolet Traverse, launched with a nine-speed automatic and the GMC's optional V6 as the standard powertrain. Coupled with the fact that it's larger and it offers more interior space, the Traverse seemed like the default choice for a midsize three-row SUV from General Motors.

In the years since, the GMC folks have come up with a few solutions that debut on the refreshed 2020 GMC Acadia. With a new look, better powertrain options, technology upgrades, and even an off-road-themed trim, the Acadia finally has an identity all its own.

Playing Catch-Up

The outgoing six-speed automatic got the job done, but we like the new nine-speed unit for 2020, and there's no denying that it offers an advantage in terms of fuel economy. Although the non-turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder (193 horsepower, 188 pound-feet of torque) remains the entry-level Acadia engine, higher trims now come standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (230 hp, 258 lb-ft) that's much more capable. Notably, the stout V6 engine (310 hp, 271 lb-ft) is still an option for buyers so inclined.

At a glance, it looks like GMC is simply bringing the Acadia in line with the Traverse, but take a closer look and you'll see that what it has actually done is differentiate it even more.

Identity Crisis No More

The Traverse only offers its turbo motor in the "sporty" RS trim, where the engine is tuned to make more torque than the V6. GMC has opted for a different application of the engine, slotting it into a logical place in the Acadia lineup and making for a logical trim-level breakdown. For 2020, the SLT and Denali trims will both come standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 230 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This lineup offers a sensible progression and adds value for shoppers at every trim level. It also distinguishes the Acadia's value proposition from the Traverse, making it feel more like a unique product offering.

Let's block ads! (Why?)