2008 GMC Acadia Review

The Acadia is GMC's first crossover SUV, and debuted in 2007. Its spacious interior contains three rows of seats, capable of holding up to eight passengers. The Acadia shares a platform with the Buick Enclave and Saturn Outlook, but so far it is the best selling model of the three. It has smooth good looks and a spacious interior.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The GMC Acadia is a break from tradition, but is nevertheless an authentic GMC. It combines a smooth, upscale ride with a powerful engine that provides surprising towing capacity for its class. When some of the mechanical kinks are worked out, it will no doubt be a top contender.

What's New For 2008:

Eight-passenger seating and XM satellite radio are now standard. New features include a rearview camera, brake assist, and a second-row console. The traction control system has been retuned.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 GMC Acadia price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$31,890

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
8

Gas Mileage:
17/24

Engine:
3.6L V6

Horsepower:
288@6300RPM

Torque:
270@3400RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/FWD

Fuel Capacity:
22

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/100000

Rust Warranty:
72/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Acadia 3 stars for mechanical quality, 2 stars for design quality, and 4 stars for performance and design. Problems with the Acadia include numerous electrical issues, sticking transmission gears, stretched timing chains, twisted seatbelts, automatically unlocking doors, sluggish acceleration, flaky power midgates and engine misfires. It's been recalled once for inaccurate airbag sensors. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Acadia earned perfect government crash test scores. IIHS test results are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, OnStar and stability control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Roomy
+ Car-like Handling
+ Powerful engine

Cons
- High cost of entry
- Numerous reliability issues
- Mediocre interior materials

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chrysler Pacifica Touring costs several hundred less and throws in a DVD player and CD changer, but lacks navigation and has 20 less hp. The Honda Pilot includes a CD changer, but lacks navigation, and has less engine power and payload capacity. The Nissan Pathfinder lacks side airbags, navigation and has less carrying capacity.

What Others Are Saying:

"The Acadia is, without question, one of the best crossover SUVs to hit the market. It's combination of SUV-like size and space, CUV-like acceleration and fuel economy and car-like road manners are a winning combination." - About.com

"It is no small trick to combine functionality, polish and a good load of safety equipment at a reasonable starting price. But that's precisely what GM has done with the all-new GMC Acadia." - The New York Times

"GMC has been growing more competitive in markets other than its basic trucks, and the Acadia is a perfect example. Here's a sport utility that has all the creature comforts one would expect from a "car company" with all the practicality one would expect from a truck-based SUV." - The Auto Channel

Read more about the 2008 GMC Acadia at the GMC manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, January 11, 2008 - Email to a friend

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