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by Lyndon Conrad Bell. | 4/9/2008 | GMC
The GMC Acadia, with its sleek styling, clever interior packaging and engaging road manners, have set a whole new standard among sport utility vehicles.
Built in Lansing, Michigan, much of the Acadia’s success is owed to its
unibody construction. Most SUV’s, place their bodies on a separate
frame to which is attached the engine and suspension components. By
integrating everything into the body shell, the Acadia is more rigid,
lighter in weight, and can be packaged more efficiently.
Acadia’s 3.6-liter V6 generates 275 horsepower at 6600 RPM and 251
foot-pounds of torque at 3200 RPM. Delivering 16 miles per gallon in
the city and 24 on the highway in front-drive configuration, and
16-city/22-highway in all wheel drive configuration, the engine enables
the Acadia to tow up to 4500 pounds. A six-speed automatic transmission
routes the engine’s output to either the front wheels, or all four when
Acadia is equipped with all-wheel drive.
The Acadia’s interior reveals considerable attention to detail. The
instrument panel is designed to provide a sense of openness and an
unobstructed view forward. The instruments themselves have a jeweled
appearance; secondary controls are intuitively located; seats are firm
yet comfortable and were designed for comfort on long drives. The
tailored appearance of the upholstery seams and headliner, metal-finish
trim accents throughout the vehicle and even a large, driver’s footrest
are all demonstrative of the thought and consideration that went into
the planning of the Acadia.
Choosing the optional third-row seat enables an Acadia to seat up to
eight passengers. The flexible seating arrangements can consist of four
captain’s chairs with a third row bench, or a 60/40 split second row
bench. The optional third-row is also split 60/40 enabling the Acadia
to maximize both passenger and cargo carrying ability.
More than two-dozen storage areas means there’s always somewhere to put
things away in the Acadia. GM’s Smart Slide seat feature moves the
second row out of the way to make entering the third row seat easier.
By the way, that third row bench is suitable for adults, not just kids.
Available equipment includes heated outside mirrors, a power liftgate,
remote vehicle start, a dual sunroof, a heads-up display, and a
DVD-based entertainment system that uses Bose 5.1 surround sound, and a
DVD-based Navigation system.
Handsome, family-friendly, and a joy to drive, the GMC Acadia is a family vehicle even a driving enthusiast will enjoy.
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