Detailed Car Seat Fitment Analysis
Latch System Evaluation
Overall Grade: A
The 2025 Acadia's second-row Latch system sets the standard for ease of use. Unlike many competitors that bury anchors deep in seat crevices, GMC's exposed lower anchors and clearly marked top tether points (located on the seatbacks) make installation straightforward. Each captain's chair features complete Latch sets, though the system's 65-pound weight limit (child + seat) remains standard.
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Second Row Performance
The Acadia's second row shines for child safety, earning top marks across all seat types:
Infant Seat (Rear-Facing): A
Our Chicco KeyFit 30 installed effortlessly with both Latch and seat belt methods. Even with the front passenger seat positioned for a 5'6" adult, legroom remained generous. The seat's anti-rebound bar cleared the Acadia's seat contours perfectly.
Convertible Seat (Rear-Facing): A
The Graco Contender 65 fit beautifully without requiring seat belt tensioners or special adjustments. The Acadia's flat seat bottoms provide an ideal mounting surface, and we measured 14" of clearance between the convertible and front seatback.
Forward-Facing Convertible: A
After raising the adjustable head restraint to its highest position, the convertible sat flush against the seatback. The top tether anchor's prominent location (marked with visible icons) prevented any installation confusion.
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Booster Seat: A
The Graco TurboBooster worked perfectly with the Acadia's elevated buckle stalks - a thoughtful design that helps children independently fasten their seat belts. The head restraint adjusted low enough to provide proper support without pushing the booster forward.
Third Row Challenges and Solutions
While the Acadia's third row offers valuable extra seating, car seat installation presents some unique considerations:
Forward-Facing Convertible: C
Without lower anchors, installation requires the seat belt method. The middle position works best thanks to its adjustable head restraint, but the ceiling-mounted buckle creates two issues: it blocks rear visibility when in use, and its two-piece design complicates buckling. Outboard positions are compromised by fixed head restraints that push car seats uncomfortably forward.
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Booster Seat: C
The third row's floppy seat belt buckles prove challenging for small hands, and the fixed head restraints prevent proper booster positioning. We recommend reserving these spots for older children using backless boosters or sitting without booster seats.
Third-Row Access: A
The Denali's power-sliding captain's chairs create a generous 11.5" passageway when moved forward. An alternative 8" gap between chairs provides additional access, though this route proves tighter when car seats are installed in the second row.
Car Seat Check Methodology
MotorVero's certified child safety seat technicians conduct all evaluations using:
- Chicco KeyFit 30 infant seat
- Graco Contender 65 convertible seat
- Graco TurboBooster high-back booster
- Front seats positioned for 6' driver and 5'6" passenger
We test all installation methods (Latch and seat belt), evaluate third-row accessibility with seats installed, and assess real-world usability factors like buckle accessibility and legroom impact.
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
