2025 GMC Acadia Expert Review
Reviewed by Billy Rehbock
Benefitting from a handsome redesign for the 2024 model year, the GMC Acadia isn't changing much for 2025. With more tech and a powerful turbocharged engine, this premium midsize SUV can better challenge rivals including the Kia Telluride, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Honda Pilot. GMC offers the 2025 Acadia in seven- and eight-seat configurations.
What’s New
- Standard rear-seat reminder
- Standard eight-passenger seating
- Standard front-row seat belt tensioners
- Standard vehicle health management
- Standard 18-inch wheels with all-season tires
- Available Elevation Premium package with front passenger power lumbar
- Dealer-installed black GMC emblems and Acadia nameplate kit
- Dealer-installed illuminated front GMC badge, perimeter rocker lighting, and door sills
- Dealer-installed molded or painted assist steps
- Dealer-installed roof rack and cross rails
- Dealer-installed wheel locks, center caps, and lug nuts
- Available dealer-installed 22-inch wheels with a bright finish
What We Think
The redesigned GMC Acadia rights the wrongs of the second-generation model. Longer, wider, and taller than the outgoing SUV, the third-generation Acadia is better suited to take on popular three-row rivals with more passenger and cargo capacity.
The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that was introduced for 2024 carries over into the new model year. With a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the 2025 Acadia has all the grunt it needs to be a family hauler or a trailer rig for weekend fun. Although the steering wheel feels disconnected from the road, the chassis is rigid and capable. The transmission delivers decisive and quick shifts, although some rivals are equipped with snappier gearboxes. AT4 models are well tuned for daily driving and capable over loose surfaces.
GMC outfits the Acadia with the latest tech, including large standard displays, Google built-in apps, and available Super Cruise hands-free driving. Although it has a strong suite of features, the Acadia’s thoughtful and upscale cabin design is what really helps it stand out, especially because it doesn’t get in the way of functionality and feels commensurate with the price tag. With so many meaningful upgrades over the prior-generation model, the Acadia is a massively improved SUV.
Performance and MPGs
A 2.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder remains the sole engine choice on the Acadia. This mill develops 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, which beats out most naturally aspirated V-6 competitors currently on sale. GMC continues to make an eight-speed automatic transmission standard. Buyers can choose between FWD and AWD variants[KL1] .
True Off-Road Ability: GMC Acadia AT4
GMC's most trail-ready version of the Acadia is the AT4. Features include all-terrain tires, a dual-clutch AWD system, off-road tuned suspension, and a 1.0-inch lift. To further enhance its rugged looks, GMC equips the Acadia AT4 with red tow hooks and a Forest Storm interior with Mahogany stitching.
Safety Ratings and Features
GMC outfits the 2025 Acadia with the active safety features it needs to compete with other three-row SUVs. Automatic emergency braking, rear pedestrian detection, front pedestrian and bicycle braking, rear cross-traffic braking, blind zone steering assist, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control all come equipped for the 2025 model year. GM's excellent Super Cruise hands-free driving technology is available.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The 2025 GMC Acadia is now large enough to take on favorites in the three-row SUV segment including the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot. Front-row legroom is plentiful while the second and third rows are competitive with rivals. Cargo volume handily beats that of the Telluride and Pilot.
Technology
The 2025 GMC Acadia's suite of tech carries over from last year. A 15.0-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen serves as the main display, supplemented by an 11.0-inch fully digital instrument cluster. Google built-in apps supplement Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. GMC's top-level Denali model continues to offer quilted door surfaces, animated walk-up lights, heated and ventilated front seats, available second-row heated seats, and an available 16-speaker Bose stereo system.
Trim Levels and Pricing
GMC offers the 2025 Acadia in Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, just like it did for 2024. The entry-level Elevation model comes standard with LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, and a hands-free liftgate. Stepping up to the Elevation Premium package upgrades the midsize SUV with LED foglights, 20-inch wheels, and roof rails.
The Acadia AT4 receives a full suite of off-road equipment, 18-inch gloss-black wheels, and unique interior design details. At the top of the range, the GMC Acadia Denali rides on 22-inch wheels and receives silver exterior accents, a trim-specific grille, and animated greeting lights. Pricing begins at over $44,000 for the Elevation, under $53,000 for the AWD-only AT4, and under $56,000 for the range-topping Denali.
