Let's dive deep into the 2022 GMC Acadia, shall we? If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, you've probably got a ton of questions swirling around in your head. Is the Acadia right for you? What are its strengths and weaknesses? How does it stack up against the competition? Well, buckle up, because we're about to break it all down, iEdmunds style.

Overview of the 2022 GMC Acadia

The 2022 GMC Acadia is GMC's offering in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. It's designed to appeal to families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between. It slots between the smaller Terrain and the larger Yukon in GMC's SUV lineup. For the 2022 model year, the Acadia receives a few updates, building upon its existing strengths while addressing some areas for improvement. It's available in several trims, including SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, each offering a different level of features and styling.

What's New for 2022? While not a complete overhaul, the 2022 Acadia sees some notable changes. One of the most significant is the revised center console design, which aims to improve usability and storage space. Additionally, some trim levels receive new standard or optional features, enhancing the overall value proposition. GMC has also tweaked the available paint colors and wheel designs, giving buyers more customization options. These updates help keep the Acadia fresh and competitive in a crowded market.

iEdmunds Review Highlights

So, what does iEdmunds think about the 2022 GMC Acadia? Here's a rundown of the key takeaways:

Performance

When we talk about the performance of the 2022 GMC Acadia, we need to consider the engine options available. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing a respectable 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for most daily driving situations and offers decent fuel economy. However, if you're looking for more oomph, especially when hauling passengers or cargo, the optional 3.6-liter V6 is the way to go. This engine cranks out 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, providing a noticeable boost in acceleration and overall performance. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The Acadia also offers available all-wheel drive, enhancing its capability in inclement weather conditions.

Ride and Handling: The Acadia delivers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections with ease, making it a pleasant vehicle for long trips. The handling is also surprisingly nimble for a mid-size SUV. The steering is responsive, and the Acadia feels relatively stable in corners. However, it's not a sporty vehicle by any means. It's designed for comfort and practicality, rather than outright performance. The AT4 trim level offers a slightly more rugged driving experience, with its off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires. Overall, the Acadia strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 GMC Acadia, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior. The materials used are generally of good quality, although some may find the overall design a bit bland. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults. However, the third-row seats are best reserved for children or smaller adults. Accessing the third row can be a bit tricky, but the Acadia's sliding second-row seats help to ease the process.

Technology Features: The Acadia comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is relatively easy to use. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as navigation, a premium Bose audio system, and a head-up display. The Acadia also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance safety and prevent accidents. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring are available as optional extras.

Cargo Space and Practicality

When it comes to cargo space and practicality, the 2022 GMC Acadia offers a decent amount of room, but it's not class-leading. With all three rows of seats in place, there's limited cargo space behind the third row. However, folding down the third-row seats significantly expands the cargo area. With the second and third rows folded down, the Acadia offers a generous amount of cargo space, making it suitable for hauling larger items. The Acadia also offers a number of convenient storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and seatback pockets. These storage spaces help to keep the interior organized and clutter-free.

Towing Capacity: If you need to tow a trailer, the Acadia has you covered. When properly equipped, the Acadia can tow up to 4,000 pounds. This is enough to tow a small boat, a camper, or a utility trailer. The Acadia also comes with available towing features such as trailer sway control and a heavy-duty cooling system. These features help to enhance safety and stability when towing.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2022 GMC Acadia is available in four main trim levels: SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Each trim level offers a different set of features and styling elements. The SLE is the base trim, and it comes standard with features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features. The SLT adds features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. The AT4 is the off-road-oriented trim, and it comes with features such as an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and a unique exterior appearance. The Denali is the top-of-the-line trim, and it comes with features such as premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Choosing the right trim level depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 GMC Acadia

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 GMC Acadia, according to iEdmunds:

Pros:

• Comfortable ride
• Available V6 engine provides strong performance
• User-friendly infotainment system
• Available all-wheel drive
• Wide range of available features

Cons:

• Third-row seats are cramped
• Cargo space is not class-leading
• Some may find the interior design bland
• Fuel economy could be better

Alternatives to the 2022 GMC Acadia

Of course, the Acadia isn't the only mid-size SUV out there. Here are a few of its main competitors:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a more spacious interior and a wider range of engine options.
• Kia Telluride: The Telluride is known for its stylish design, upscale interior, and long list of standard features.
• Hyundai Palisade: The Palisade is similar to the Telluride in terms of features and value.
• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is a reliable and fuel-efficient option with a strong reputation.
• Honda Pilot: The Pilot offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride.

iEdmunds Final Verdict

So, what's the final word from iEdmunds on the 2022 GMC Acadia? Overall, it's a solid mid-size SUV that offers a comfortable ride, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a wide range of available features. However, it's not without its flaws. The third-row seats are cramped, the cargo space is not class-leading, and the fuel economy could be better. If you're looking for a well-rounded SUV that can handle daily commutes and family adventures, the Acadia is worth considering. However, it's important to compare it to its competitors to see which one best meets your needs. The Acadia is a good choice for buyers looking for a blend of comfort, features, and style in a mid-size SUV. Just be sure to weigh its pros and cons against those of its rivals before making a final decision.