2017 GMC Acadia
The 2017 GMC Acadia has been leaked at ongoing auto show in Detroit.
The new model has been dramatically improved over its predecessor and includes
a number of new engines, a range of improved features and a thoroughly
redesigned look.
The most important development
for the new Acadia are it use of high-strength and lightweight steels
throughout its construction. All told, the car weighs a considerable 700 pounds
less than the outgoing model. That significant weight saving doesn't just help
at the fuel pump, but also improves performance and makes the car more agile.
Compared to the predecessor, its smaller in all areas being 7.2-inches shorter, 3.5-inches narrower
and 3.9-inches lower. The wheelbase itself has also been decreased in size by
6.4-inches.
Due to the vehicle's reduced size, it is
no longer available with eight seats. Instead, the three-row design allows for
five, six and seven-seat configurations. Despite being smaller than the 2016
model, the new car actually has more cargo capacity, 79 cubic feet versus 70
cubic feet.
Under the hood, the entry-level
model utilises a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing an undisclosed amount of
power. It could returns 22 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on
the highway, comes standard with a stop-start feature and is mated as standard
with a front-wheel drive system. 2017 Acadia customers also have the option of
a 3.6-liter V6 pumping out 310, 19 hp more than the current model. Despite the
additional power, towing capacity actually drops from 5,200 pounds to 4,000
pounds.
While both these engine options are
offered solely with a six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive is offered both in
standard and All Terrain guise. Each drivetrain has its own distinct drive
modes. For example, front-wheel drive models include a Snow mode, the standard
AWD model has 4x4 and Off Road modes while the All Terrain model appropriately
receives an All Terrain mode, particularly helping with climbing steep hills.
Other key developments for the 2017
Acadia include the addition of front pedestrian braking, a following distance
indicator, Surround Vision camera system, forward collision alert, lane keep
assist and front and rear parking sensors.
Inside, customers receive the company's
latest IntelliLink system offering support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
An OnStar 4G LTE WiFi hotspot is also offered.
