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2025 GMC Acadia Review: 5 Strengths and 3 Weaknesses to Consider
2025 GMC Acadia Review: A Premium Three-Row SUV With Surprising Capability
The 2025 GMC Acadia represents a significant evolution in General Motors' midsize SUV strategy, now positioned as a compelling bridge between the utilitarian Chevrolet Traverse and luxurious Buick Enclave. Following its complete redesign last model year, the Acadia has emerged as one of the most well-rounded three-row SUVs on the market - but is it the right choice for your family? Our comprehensive review examines seven standout strengths and three notable weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
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What Sets the 2025 GMC Acadia Apart?
Unlike its predecessor, the current-generation Acadia returns to a larger platform shared with the Chevrolet Traverse, resulting in dramatically improved interior space. GMC has carefully differentiated its offering through premium materials, advanced technology, and the availability of genuine off-road capability in AT4 trim. For 2025, the key change is the addition of a standard bench seat in base Elevation models, increasing maximum seating capacity to eight passengers.
7 Reasons the 2025 GMC Acadia Impresses
1. Class-Leading Ride Comfort
The Acadia delivers what may be the most composed ride in its segment, with exceptional bump absorption that makes long highway journeys remarkably comfortable. Even with the available 22-inch wheels, the suspension maintains impressive composure over rough pavement. Engineers achieved this through:
- Revised suspension geometry with frequency-dependent dampers
- Isolated front subframe that reduces vibration transmission
- Acoustic laminated glass that minimizes road noise
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2. Super Cruise: A Game-Changer for Road Trips
GMC's hands-free driving system remains one of the most advanced on the market. The 2025 Acadia benefits from recent Super Cruise enhancements including:
- Expanded coverage to over 400,000 miles of North American roads
- Improved lane change automation with driver confirmation
- Enhanced trailering support (when properly equipped)
While the system works exceptionally well on highways, we recommend caution when using it on rural two-lane roads where unpredictable traffic patterns can challenge its capabilities.
3. Premium Interior Execution
The Acadia's cabin represents a significant step up from the Traverse, particularly in Denali trim where you'll find:
- Authentic open-pore wood trim with satin finish
- Full-grain leather seats with perforated inserts
- Metal speaker grilles and precision-milled knobs
The standard 15-inch diagonal touchscreen pairs with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster to create a modern tech interface that's more intuitive than many German luxury competitors.
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4. Practical Family-Friendly Dimensions
The move to a larger platform transformed the Acadia's interior packaging:
| Measurement | 2025 Acadia | 2023 Acadia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Third-row legroom | 33.1 in | 29.7 in | +3.4 in |
| Cargo behind 3rd row | 23.2 cu ft | 12.8 cu ft | +10.4 cu ft |
| Shoulder room (2nd row) | 61.3 in | 58.7 in | +2.6 in |
5. Genuine Off-Road Capability (AT4 Trim)
The Acadia AT4 isn't just a styling package - it brings legitimate rough-road credentials:
- 1-inch suspension lift for improved ground clearance
- Dual skid plates (aluminum front, steel underbody)
- Specific Terrain drive mode with hill descent control
- All-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels (downsized for better sidewall protection)
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6. Thoughtful Family Features
GMC added numerous details that parents will appreciate:
- Rear seat reminder system that detects forgotten items
- 15 wireless device charging locations throughout the cabin
- Available rear camera mirror that eliminates headrest obstructions
- Ultra-wide HD surround vision for tight parking situations
7. Strong Safety Credentials
The Acadia earned top marks in recent testing:
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating (when equipped with specific headlights)
- Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Available night vision system detects pedestrians/animals beyond headlight range
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3 Areas Where the 2025 Acadia Falls Short
1. Underwhelming Powertrain Performance
The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder (328 hp, 326 lb-ft) struggles with:
- Noticeable turbo lag when accelerating from stop
- Coarse engine note under heavy throttle
- 8-speed transmission hesitates when downshifting
This is particularly disappointing given the available 3.6L V6 in competing models like the Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Highlander.
2. Imprecise Steering Feel
The electric power steering system lacks the precision expected in this class:
- Excessive on-center dead zone requires constant corrections
- Minimal feedback about road surface conditions
- Inconsistent weighting between drive modes
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3. Google Built-In Limitations
While the infotainment system is generally responsive, several issues persist:
- Navigation becomes unavailable without cellular signal
- Voice recognition struggles with complex commands
- Some vehicle settings buried in submenus
Owners report that using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay bypasses many of these limitations.
How the Acadia Compares to Key Rivals
When cross-shopping three-row SUVs, consider these competitive alternatives:
GMC Acadia vs. Chevrolet Traverse
- Acadia advantages: More premium interior, available Super Cruise, authentic off-road capability
- Traverse advantages: Slightly more cargo space (23.2 vs. 24.1 cu ft behind 3rd row), lower starting price
GMC Acadia vs. Honda Pilot
- Acadia advantages: More refined ride quality, hands-free driving capability
- Pilot advantages: More powerful standard V6 engine, better predicted reliability
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GMC Acadia vs. Kia Telluride
- Acadia advantages: Available off-road package, more configurable seating
- Telluride advantages: Superior warranty coverage, more standard features at each price point
Who Should Consider the 2025 GMC Acadia?
The Acadia shines for buyers who:
- Prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling
- Want available hands-free driving technology
- Need occasional off-road capability without going to a body-on-frame SUV
- Appreciate premium interior materials but don't want luxury brand pricing
However, performance-oriented drivers or those who frequently travel to areas with poor cellular coverage might want to consider alternatives.
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Final Verdict: A Strong Contender With Some Compromises
The 2025 GMC Acadia represents one of the most compelling choices in the three-row SUV segment, particularly for families who value comfort and technology over outright performance. While the powertrain and steering could use refinement, the Acadia's combination of premium appointments, innovative safety features, and surprising versatility make it worth serious consideration. For buyers who can stretch their budget, the Denali trim with Super Cruise offers near-luxury features at a mainstream price point.
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Last Updated On Apr, 12-2025