GMC Acadia Denali AWD: We were all kinds of impressed when GMC launched the third-generation Acadia for the, thanks to a massively improved interior and just the right amount of space to retain competitiveness. We recently took the first drive in a 2025 Acadia Denali AWD, and while the updates are few, it is still a strong contender in the midsize SUV arena.
Turbo Strong, Smooth Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Acadia keeps the same 2.5-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that first appeared in the previous year and now has the output of 328 horsepower with a maximum of 326 lb-ft of torque. This pairs with an 8-speed automatic that is a replacement for the outdated 9-speed. Sure, its four-cylinder configuration trumps the older V-6 3.6, but it is certainly not left wanting against most of its rivals packing V-6s. A strong engine combining into power delivery from start to end, though whiny from the get-go through some of the early gear changes; thankfully, the cabin has good acoustic insulation with active noise cancellation keeping these intrusions at bay.
More Space Than Ever
During that time, GMC rectified the mistake of a drastic decrease in the dimension of the Acadia by making it larger. This newly improved Acadia shares its wheelbase with that of the full-size Yukon, thus making provision for an even roomier third row and an 80% larger cargo area than before- even this year’s offers 80% more cargo area than last year. This translates into the best practicality for a mid-size SUV, exceeding competition around it like the Toyota Grand Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot in terms of useful area.
Denali Worthy Interior
On the Denali trim, impressive luxury is provided in the interior. The test model sports a white leather interior with contrast stitching, quilted seats, chocolate brown leather accents, open-pore wood, and chrome finishes everywhere. Heated, power-adjustable second-row captain’s chairs slide forward for quick third-row access, which offers a 60/40 split with power folding.
Numerous comfort facilities are part of this vehicle, including hands-free lift access, rear HVAC controls, many USB ports, cup holders that take care of even the seatback protector from little feet trampling the leather. Thoughtful design with classy touches puts this space into a category one would use to define pleasurable confines.
Tech-Centric and User-Friendly
In the center of the dash is a 15.0-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, flanked to either side by tactile piano-key climate controls and a handy physical volume knob. The infotainment system operates with Google Built-in apps but supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The audio system is premium Bose, and a wireless charging pad in the console behaves consistently in terms of a fast charge.
Unfriendly Ergonomics
One quirk? The control stalks. GM’s dual motion gear selector requires one to push forward with the stalk before shifting up or down-thus requiring double actions for what is ordinarily one natural movement. Wiper controls are also given behind the toggle switches on the stalk instead of traditional flicks. Such quirks can be learned, but they make for awkwardness.
On-The-Road Testing: Capable and Composed
Despite weighing up to just-the-right-4,890 pounds, the Acadia feels surprisingly agile. It turned in a time of 27.5 seconds with an average of 0.63 g on our figure-eight handling course to match the Telluride and outshine the Honda Pilot. Its body roll is managed well, the steering is precise, and braking behavior is commendable; so, it feels like a smaller SUV during handling.
The Acceleration test results were 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.9 seconds at 90.6 mph. Respectable enough compared with many V-6 competitors such as the Grand Cherokee L and Kia Telluride, though not class-leading.
Stopping distance from 60 mph was just 113 feet short figure compared to many competitors felt busy, with apparent ABS intervention and a bit of steering wheel shimmy.
Super Cruise and Safety Tech
Super Cruise is certainly something special and is made standard across all trims; our testing confirmed its seamless operation. It allows for a hands-free highway driving experience, enhanced emergency braking, alerts for pedestrians and bicycles, traffic sign recognition, and much more. But requiring the driver to switch the AWD on for the 2025 model feels rather old-fashioned when rivals activate it automatically.
Drivers, like vibrating seats when backing up, can sometimes decrease driving, while the stop-the-vehicle system may be uncomfortably intrusive at times in tight places such as parking lots.
Conclusion
The 2025 GMC Acadia Denali AWD is an anomaly in the already obscure midsize SUV segment, marrying, so to speak, space, class, and performance. A power plant, high-tech gizmos, and frankly practical family hauler in GMC-modish, it does not hold back on style and courage.
Specs: 2025 GMC Acadia Denali AWD.
- Base Price: $57,495
- As Tested: $64,610
- Engine Displacement: 2.5L
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Curb Weight: 4,902 lbs
- 0-60 mph: 7.8 seconds
- Braking: 60-0 mph: 113 feet
- Figure Eight: 27.5 sec @ 0.63 g
- Seating: 7-passenger (with 8-passenger optional)
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