Redesigned in 2017 from the ground up, the 2018 GMC Acadia carries forward the latest generation. This smaller, lighter SUV gave up some passenger space compared to some rival models, but in return it received improved fuel economy and a more enjoyable driving experience. In this video, we highlight the key features that matter most. From mpg, interior space and technology to design and comfort - these pros and cons will help steer you toward a perfect car.
Transcript
SPEAKER: I'm Edmund's editor Josh Sadlier and this is a rundown of the features you'll find in the 2018 GMC Acadia. The Acadia is a smaller, lighter SUV that gives up some passenger space compared to its rivals but, in return, you get improved fuel economy and a more enjoyable driving experience. The SLE2 is the best bang for your buck. It's reasonably priced and it adds a power lift gate, powered driver's seat, and heated front seats. We also think it's worth checking the box for the V6 engine. You'll appreciate its superior performance when you're carrying passengers or towing. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert and rear parking sensors are available with the driver alert one package, which we also recommend. The rear cargo area has a wide, unobstructed cargo floor when you fold the third row, while remote release handles make it easy to fold the second row. There are two USB ports for second row passengers and a single port for the third row. Wireless charging and mobile Wi-Fi are also available. GMC's infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and it's easy to learn and use on a daily basis. The top of the line Denali is the only trim level available with the optional 360 degree parking camera and adaptive cruise control. The Acadia's exceedingly roomy front row is easy to access, but it comes up a little short on storage space for your small items. The GMC Acadia's top competitors include the Toyota Highlander, the Honda Pilot, and the Ford Explorer. Bottom line, the GMC Acadia is a solid choice for a comfortable, three row SUV, but it might also be worth your time to look at a few rivals, especially if you prioritize expansive third row seat space and lots of cargo room. [MUSIC PLAYING]
The 2018 GMC Acadia represents something of an anomaly in the automotive world. Usually when a vehicle is redesigned, it becomes bigger and heavier than it was before. Yet after being produced for nearly a decade, the previous generation of the Acadia gave way to a lighter and trimmer version just last year. Measuring 7.2 inches shorter in length, 6.6 inches shorter in height and 3.5 inches narrower in width, the latest Acadia loses some passenger and cargo space but makes notable gains in overall maneuverability and parking ease. Dropping a whopping 700 pounds in curb weight also benefits the midsize crossover SUV, improving both fuel economy and handling.
Although the cabin may not be as voluminous as before, there is still plenty of room in the first- and second-row seats. The third row, however, is best left for the little ones. Depending on trim level, the 2018 GMC Acadia can seat anywhere from five to seven people. Those trim levels range from the base SL to the plush Denali, with the SLE and SLT (with two trims each) filling in between them. Fitted with quality materials, the Acadia's interior has both a pleasing design and sound ergonomics. The infotainment system is easy to use thanks to its large virtual buttons and simple graphics.
Even the entry-level SL comes standard with plenty of family-friendly features, including built-in Wi-Fi, triple-zone climate control and a rearview camera. It seems like a great deal, considering the ultracompetitive price, until you realize it's a special-order trim that dealers won't carry. The SLE-1 costs a lot more and barely adds anything, so you'll have to upgrade to the SLE-2 before you get any upgrades of substance. Its additions include a power liftgate and heated front seats.
Pay a little more for the SLT-1 and you'll further equip the Acadia with leather upholstery, a blind-spot monitor and an upgraded stereo system. The SLT-2 bolsters the equipment list with larger wheels, the V6 and additional safety features. Perks of the high-end Denali include xenon headlights, a hands-free power liftgate and heated-ventilated front seats. An All Terrain package, which features hill descent control and a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, is available on certain trims. Despite that moniker, however, an Acadia so equipped is still limited to lighter-duty off-road work.
A four-cylinder engine with 194 horsepower serves as the base powerplant, which, along with that big weight loss, optimizes fuel economy. Performance is adequate, though under hard acceleration (such as when merging or passing) it can sound and feel strained. Those who plan on regularly filling the seats, carrying heavy loads or towing anything should consider the uplevel 310-horsepower V6. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are both available.
Given how much improved the Acadia is this year, it may factor into your short list of midsize crossover SUV choices. If so, Edmunds is ready to help you find the 2018 GMC Acadia that's just right for you and your family.
2018 GMC Acadia Overview
The 2018 GMC Acadia is offered in the following submodels: SUV. Available styles include Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A), Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A), and SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A). Acadia models are available with a 0-liter gas engine, with output up to 0 hp, depending on engine type. The 2018 Acadia comes with all wheel drive or front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. The 2018 Acadia comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What should I pay for a new 2018 GMC Acadia?
2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $52050. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is trending $9528 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9528 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $42522.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is 18.3% below the MSRP.
We are showing 7 Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $50850. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is trending $11543.6 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $11543.6 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $39306.4.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is 22.7% below the MSRP.
We are showing 12 Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $33595. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $3872.5 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3872.5 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $29722.5.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6A) is 11.5% below the MSRP.
We are showing 7 SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $48850. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is trending $10288 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $10288 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $38562.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is 21.1% below the MSRP.
We are showing 5 Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $44490. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is trending $10468.1 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $10468.1 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $34021.9.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is 23.5% below the MSRP.
We are showing 4 SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $52425. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is trending $6550 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6550 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $45875.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is 12.5% below the MSRP.
We are showing 3 Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $51150. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is trending $5938 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5938 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $45212.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) is 11.6% below the MSRP.
We are showing 3 Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia Denali 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $42485. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $9837 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9837 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $32648.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 23.2% below the MSRP.
We are showing 3 SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $42785. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $7735 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7735 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $35050.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 18.1% below the MSRP.
We are showing 3 SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) 2018 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Is the 2018 GMC Acadia a good car? Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 GMC Acadia and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Acadia featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process All of our reviews are written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What do people think of the 2018 GMC Acadia? Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 GMC Acadia and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Acadia a 3.8 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Acadia.
Vehicle SLT-2 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Review My 3.6L/6T70 SLT2 FWD Acadia handles better than I expected. I just came out of a 2008 Pontiac Torrent GXP which handled pretty good for a non sports car. I wanted to buy another Pontiac, but we all know that is not possible. So I ended up buying the Acadia. I have only driven GM vehicles for 40 years and considered the new Volvo XC60 & the BMW X3. The worst thing about the 2018 GMC Acadia is the 6T70 transmission. After 1500 miles, it still doesn't know how to shift consistently. Cold shifts (1-2 & 2-3) have a ton of initial feel. Horrible. Once the trans gets warmed up, they get better but still lag most competitors. My 2008 GXP was very good, so how did GM screw up a 10 year old design? Some 2-3 shifts have a triple feel to them (Initial feel, sag & an end bump). Terrible. Then there is a "shift in a turn" phenomenon. Sometimes, the trans seems to be very affected when in a slow speed turn. The 2-3 gets real firm or slips. Very weird. I can't believe that GMC won't fix this. I feel I wasted $45k & hate to drive it. I also found the seats to be narrower in the Acadia as compared to the buckets in the Pontiac which had a narrower chassis. I was shocked to learn that the Acadia had few & less small places to put things than my smaller Pontiac Torrent. Where is the technical memory for these kinds of things? And that damn chime is so loud with the Bose entertainment system. I have the chime volume turned all the way down & it still assaults my deaf old man ears. Give me the option to use a different sound like the tinkle used for the "check back seat" warning and to turn it down some more. It had 2 body fit issues. First, the tailgate fit very badly. Down at the driver side bottom edge, it stood very proud of the tail light. I don't know how it got out of the factory that way & wonder why it was delivered to me that way. I loosened the 2 bolts on the roof hinge & was able to correct it. The hood also fit badly. I played with the rubber snubbers on both sides to get it to look more symmetrical. Inside, the drawer that pulls open from the rear of the armrest wouldn't open because it runs into the raised lip of the optional GMC floormats I ordered. Doesn't any GM engineer check this stuff? I removed the drawer & took a hacksaw to the bottom lip on the drawer. Since it is at the bottom, no one can see what I did. It now clears the floormat. Lastly, I have to mention the GMC dealer in Western Ann Arbor. They were terrible. They forgot my deposit, screwed up the registration and failed to give me the proof of insurance after talking to my insurance company. Then they charged $210 for paper work! And no one would call me back after leaving messages. I guess they figured they had my money. I even called their Corporate Experience Mngr., and she promised to call me back that day & never did. 4 days later, I emailed her only to get more promises but no action. This was going to be my last vehicle, but I fear that I will have to sell it and take a huge loss and I'll never go to that dealer again. Being a "GM" guy that worked at the company for 34 years, this was a difficult review to write.
See all consumer reviews and retings for the 2018 GMC Acadia
2018 GMC Acadia inventory listings Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 GMC Acadia for sale near Ashburn VA. There are currently 221 new and 634 used and CPO 2018 Acadias listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as 30390 and mileage as low as 0. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 GMC Acadia. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to 11810 on a new, used, or CPO 2018 Acadia available from one of 2630 dealerships in your area.
How can Edmunds help? Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color
Is the 2018 Gmc Acadia safe? The 2018 Gmc Acadia earned a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and "GOOD" ratings from the IIHS in the following caregories: Side Impact Test, Roof Strength Test, Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint, IIHS Small Overlap Front Test Results, Moderate Overlap Front Test Results, and a JD POWER overall quality rating of 2.0 out of 5. Among Edmunds' many tools and resources for finding your perfect car are detailed safety ratings and analysis from NHTSA, IIHS, and JD Power, including overall ratings, frontal barrier crash ratings, side impact tests and crash ratings, rollover test results, roof strength tests, rear crash protection and head restraint ratings, side barrier ratings, combined side barrier and pole ratings, and more.
Exterior Colors: Carbon Black Metallic, Quicksilver Metallic, Iridium Metallic, Summit White, White Diamond Tricoat, Ebony Twilight Metallic, White Frost Tricoat, Crimson Red Tintcoat, Champagne Silver Metallic, Blue Steel Metallic, Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic, Red Jewel Tintcoat, Black Cherry Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Cyber Gray Metallic, Medium Brown Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic, Liquid Silver Metallic, Midnight Amethyst Metallic, Dark Crimson Metallic, Atlantis Blue Metallic, Blue-Gold Crystal Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, Sparkling Silver Metallic, Mineral Metallic, Silver Green Metallic, Stone Gray Metallic
