2012 GMC Acadia Review
The GMC Acadia was first launched in late 2006. It is a full size crossover SUV based on GM’s Lambda platform. The same platform is also utilized by the Buick Enclave and the Chevrolet Traverse. The 2012 GMC Acadia is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard while all-wheel drive remains an option.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2012 GMC Acadia can perform better than traditional SUVs in the GMC lineup. If you don’t need the towing capacity of a large and heavy SUV—and if all you need is a spacious three-row crossover that combines good handling and better fuel economy, you can do no wrong with the GMC Acadia.
What’s New For 2008:
The 2012 GMC Acadia is left unchanged for 2012.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
Similar to other vehicles from GMC, the 2012 Acadia is a professional-grade crossover SUV that is expected to perform a variety of roles such as hauling passengers and heavy cargo. Models that were made between 2007 and 2009 had no reported problems in engine, transmission, driveline, and suspension performance. J.D. Power and Associates even gave the 2012 GMC Acadia an average rating of 3 out of 5 in overall initial quality.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The 2012 GMC Acadia shines in the area of safety. It was included in the IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012, as it got the highest rating of ‘Good’ in side impact/front offset and roof crash tests. The 2012 GMC Acadia also got a perfect 5 out of 5 stars from the NHTSA. It got 4 out of 5 stars in frontal crash and rollover protection, while it got a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in side impact crash tests. The GMC Acadia is also equipped with abundant safety features including OnStar with hands-free telephone capabilities and turn-by-turn navigation, traction/stability control, antilock brakes and front-side/side curtain airbags(on all four seats).
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Impressive safety credentials
+ 8-passenger seating capability
+ Smooth ride
+ Balanced handling
Cons
– Limited rear visibility
– Poor maneuverability due to size and weight
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Mazda CX-9 costs around $3,000 less but its V6 engine also has 15 less horsepower than the GMC Acadia. The Ford Flex costs around $1,900 less but its V6 engine also produces 3 less horsepower compared to the GMC Acadia. The Mazda CX-9 is rated at 17/24 MPG in city and highway driving, while the Ford Flex achieves 18/25 MPG. The 2012 GMC Acadia is rated at 17/24 MPG, similar to the Mazda CX-9.
What Others Are Saying:
"One such vehicle I recently test drove is the 2012 GMC Acadia Denali SUV. This three row, seven-passenger vehicle was created to carry both a high passenger and cargo load. Although it definitely has the look of heavy metal this ride was quite nimble during testing." – Examiner.com
"The GMC Acadia’s styling avoids the dreaded stigma of Minivan Mom (or Dad) without compromising utility" – KBB.com
"The Acadia drives nicely for the most part. The engine/trans interface is smooth, the ride is not harsh over Detroit potholes, and it’s overall a nice, relaxing cruiser. Quiet, too." – AutoWeek.com
Read more about the 2012 GMC Acadia at the GMC manufacturer site.
