Why the GMC Acadia is Perfect for South Florida Drivers

GMC Acadia Review : Perfect for South Florida Drivers
From Autotropolis
By Valerie Mellema

Review:
The GMC Acadia is a midsize SUV that shares the same platform as the Chevy Traverse and the Buick Enclave, among others. The Acadia is available in two trim levels, SLE and SLT, both of which can be configured as front-wheel drive models or all-wheel drive models. The 2009 Acadia receives a modest power boost, as well as other upgrades, such as a dual sunroof, a fixed skylight in the rear, a new navigation system and a rearview camera.

The Acadia is available with only a single option for engine and transmission. A 3.6-liter V6, producing 288 hp mated with a six-speed automatic transmission is the only choice, regardless of trim level. However, the Acadia does enjoy numerous benefits, including better than average fuel economy, handing and more. The SUV is also configurable with a number of options, including wireless communications options, heated and cooled front seats, satellite radio and other options.

The Acadia offers several price points, depending on the model and options chosen. A base, two-wheel drive SLE starts at $30,950, while the addition of all-wheel drive bumps that to $32,950. The SLT, two-wheel drive version begins at $35,310 and the all-wheel drive version at $37,310.

2009 GMC Acadia Performance
The Acadia enjoys substantial acceleration, in both two-wheel and all-wheel drive versions. However, the two-wheel drive version is somewhat faster off the line. Transmission operation is generally smooth, though it can seem to "hang" in gear, requiring a quick punch to the accelerator. In addition, the Acadia sometimes experiences slow throttle response when passing. Fuel economy is one of the areas in which the Acadia suffers. Like most SUVs, the Acadia has very low average fuel mileage, coming in around 16 mpg, with the horsepower enhancements for the new year model.

The Acadia does enjoy very agile steering and handling, especially in front-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive models are more difficult to maneuver, but provide better traction on all surfaces. However, due to the vehicle's length and width, it can be difficult to maneuver in tight urban spaces. The addition of the optional 19-inch wheels increases ride stiffness by a considerable amount, but does not detract from ride quality to excess.

Finally, the Acadia does suffer from bumps and tire noise with the optional wheel/tire package. However, standard wheels and tires produce very little road noise, and the engine noise is barely noticeable. Additionally, very little wind noise is produced at highway speeds, making the Acadia one of the quietest vehicles on the road.

2009 GMC Acadia Interior
The interior of the Acadia is a combination of textured plastic and comfortable fabrics. The seats are comfortable and provide sufficient support for driver and front passenger, while the quality of the interior components remains high. Front leg and headroom is considerable, even for very tall drivers and passengers. However, thick A-pillars can block the view from the front and other pillars can do the same in the rear. The high back of the vehicle makes it difficult to see objects behind the SUV, as well.

Rear seating offers plenty of room, as well as easy access through the doors. The second row seats can be slid forward to allow easier access to the third row seats, as well. The second row bench can be replaced with bucket seats for more comfort, as well as easier access to the rear seats. Third row seating has tight quarters for tall passengers, though shorter passengers will find few problems.
The Acadia's controls are well laid out for functionality and reading. The gauges are all brightly illuminated during day and night driving, while the head-up display projects speed and other information onto the windshield for immediate reading. The radio and HVAC controls are easily accessed by the driver, and if the navigation system is chosen, the unit provides easy access to numerous functions.

The Acadia also offers tremendous cargo room. In fact, the Acadia boasts the most cargo capacity of any midsize SUV. The rear cargo area offers tremendous space, as well as a hidden bin recessed into the floor for additional storage. The second and third row seats fold flat to the floor, providing even more cargo room in the vehicle. Interior storage is also provided in the form of numerous cubbies and compartments to help you tuck away any necessary items.

2009 GMC Acadia Safety Features
The Acadia offers numerous options for safety. GMC has included several options as standard that most automakers consider extras. You'll find dual-front airbags in all vehicles, as well as front side airbags, curtain side airbags, rollover sensors for airbag deployment, braking assist systems, four-wheel antilock brakes, antiskid systems, daytime running lights and a tire pressure monitoring system.
A rear obstacle detection system and a rearview camera are optional, but have tremendous benefits for drivers, considering the rear vehicle height. In addition, the optional navigation system can be configured with or without the rearview camera for additional benefits.

The Acadia received very high marks from the NHTSA, receiving a score of five out of five in front driver and passenger impact, as well as side driver and passenger impact. The Acadia received a score of four out of five for rollover and rollover resistance, respectively. These ratings make the Acadia safer than many other midsize SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer.

2009 GMC Acadia Summary
The Acadia is a fantastic option for those seeking the cargo-carrying capacity of a minivan with the power and performance of an SUV. The front-wheel drive options ensure that you have traction when rear-wheel drive vehicles would not and the option of the all-wheel drive version makes this a great choice for any geographic or climatic area. In addition, the Acadia provides substantial performance benefits over truck-based SUV platforms, such as the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet TrailBlazer, due to its unique construction and configuration. Finally, thanks to the wide array of options and technological advancements available, the Acadia can be customized to any extent required to provide benefits to drivers and their families.

GMC Acadia is currently available for lease from BrickellGMC.com for $399 monthly with $2659 due at signing (for a 39-month lease with 12,000 miles per year). Get more information at BrickellGMC.com or by visiting the Brickell Buick Pontiac GMC dealership itself