2023 GMC Acadia Review: Still a Practical Family SUV?

The 2023 GMC Acadia remains one of the more interesting choices in the midsize SUV segment because it doesn’t follow the same formula as many of its competitors. While rivals continue growing larger and offering increasingly spacious third rows, the Acadia takes a different approach by delivering three-row versatility in a package that feels easier to drive and maneuver every day.

Positioned between compact and full-size family SUVs, the Acadia appeals to buyers who occasionally need extra seating but don’t necessarily want the size and bulk of larger models like the Chevrolet Traverse or GMC Yukon. Its more manageable dimensions make it easier to navigate crowded parking lots, city streets, and suburban neighborhoods while still providing enough room for most family duties.

For 2023, GMC carries the Acadia forward with minimal changes, continuing to offer a lineup that focuses on comfort, practicality, and a respectable amount of technology. Buyers can choose between a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a more powerful V6, while multiple trim levels allow the SUV to range from a relatively affordable family hauler to a near-luxury crossover in Denali form.

Inside, the Acadia delivers a quiet cabin, comfortable seating, and user-friendly controls that make daily driving stress-free. Families will appreciate the available captain’s chairs, generous second-row accommodations, and a collection of standard safety features that help keep passengers protected during everyday travel.

The challenge for the Acadia is not that it’s a bad SUV. In fact, it performs most family-oriented tasks quite well. The problem is that the segment has become incredibly competitive. Models such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer have raised expectations for interior space, technology, and overall value.

Even so, the 2023 GMC Acadia continues to make sense for buyers who prioritize comfort, easy drivability, and GMC’s upscale styling. It may not lead the class in every category, but it remains a well-rounded family SUV that balances practicality, refinement, and everyday usability better than many people realize.

Our Take

The 2023 GMC Acadia succeeds because it understands its purpose. Rather than trying to be the largest, most luxurious, or most capable SUV in the segment, it focuses on providing a comfortable and easy-to-live-with driving experience that works well for everyday family life.

We believe the optional 3.6-liter V6 is the engine to choose. It delivers noticeably stronger acceleration, smoother power delivery, and better overall refinement than the base turbocharged four-cylinder. Combined with the Acadia’s comfortable ride and quiet cabin, it creates a driving experience that feels more premium than the vehicle’s mainstream positioning might suggest.

That said, the Acadia no longer stands at the front of the class. The third row is smaller than many competitors, cargo space trails some rivals, and the infotainment system is beginning to show its age. Buyers who prioritize maximum space and value may find stronger alternatives elsewhere, but the Acadia remains a solid choice for families who want a comfortable midsize SUV that is easier to manage than larger three-row competitors.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable ride quality and quiet cabin
• Strong available 3.6-liter V6 engine
• Easy to drive and maneuver compared with larger rivals
• Comprehensive standard safety technology
• Attractive exterior styling, especially in Denali trim

Cons

• Third-row seating is cramped for adults
• Cargo space trails several key competitors
• Infotainment system feels dated compared with newer rivals
• Base turbocharged engine lacks the refinement of the V6
• Higher trims can become expensive relative to competitors

What’s New for 2023

For 2023, the GMC Acadia returns with very few significant changes. GMC largely carries over the SUV unchanged as the company prepares for the arrival of an all-new next-generation Acadia. As a result, buyers receive the same overall design, powertrain options, and core feature set that were available in the previous model year.

A handful of minor updates include revised exterior color choices and pricing adjustments across the lineup. The Acadia continues to be offered in SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali trims, giving buyers a range of options from practical family transportation to a more upscale luxury-oriented experience.

While some shoppers may be disappointed by the lack of major improvements, the Acadia still benefits from a proven platform, a comfortable driving experience, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. GMC clearly chose to focus on consistency rather than introducing major updates during the final years of this generation.

Exterior Design

The 2023 GMC Acadia features a clean and upscale design that helps it stand out from many mainstream family SUVs. Rather than relying on aggressive styling or exaggerated bodywork, the Acadia presents a more mature and refined appearance that aligns well with GMC’s premium-focused image.

At the front, a bold grille and distinctive LED lighting give the SUV a confident presence on the road. The design is modern without appearing overly complicated, and it has aged surprisingly well despite this generation having been on sale for several years.

From the side, the Acadia’s proportions strike a balance between practicality and style. Its dimensions are smaller than some three-row competitors, which contributes to easier maneuverability while still providing the versatility families expect from a midsize SUV.

Trim levels play an important role in the vehicle’s appearance. The Denali model adds additional chrome accents, premium wheels, and upscale exterior details that give it a more luxurious look. Meanwhile, the AT4 trim adopts a more rugged personality with unique styling cues and off-road-inspired design elements.

Overall, the Acadia remains an attractive SUV that avoids following short-term styling trends. Its clean lines and restrained design help it maintain a timeless appearance, which may appeal to buyers looking for something more sophisticated than flashy.

Driving Experience

One of the Acadia’s biggest strengths is how easy it feels to drive. Unlike some larger three-row SUVs that can feel cumbersome in urban environments, the Acadia’s slightly smaller footprint makes it more manageable in tight parking lots, narrow streets, and everyday commuting situations.

The suspension is tuned primarily for comfort, and it does an excellent job of absorbing road imperfections. Whether driving through city traffic or cruising on the highway, the Acadia delivers a composed and relaxed experience that most families will appreciate.

Buyers who choose the available 3.6-liter V6 will enjoy noticeably stronger acceleration and smoother power delivery than the standard turbocharged four-cylinder. The V6 feels well suited to the Acadia’s size and provides confident passing power when merging or overtaking slower traffic.

Although the AT4 trim adds a more adventurous appearance and all-wheel drive capability, the Acadia is not intended to be a serious off-road SUV. Instead, its strengths lie in comfortable daily transportation, long-distance road trips, and providing a stress-free driving experience for families.

Interior & Luxury Feel

The 2023 GMC Acadia offers an interior that prioritizes comfort and usability over flashy design. While it may not feel as upscale as some newer competitors, the cabin remains well built and thoughtfully laid out. The controls are easy to reach, visibility is generally good, and the overall design avoids unnecessary complexity.

Comfort is one of the Acadia’s strongest attributes. The front seats provide excellent support for daily commuting and long-distance travel, while the second row offers generous legroom for adult passengers. Available captain’s chairs further enhance comfort and make access to the third row more convenient.

One advantage of the Acadia’s slightly smaller dimensions is easier access to the cabin. Both front and rear passengers benefit from wide-opening doors and a seating position that feels more natural than some larger three-row SUVs.

Material quality varies depending on trim level. Entry-level models focus on practicality, while higher trims such as the Denali introduce premium leather upholstery, upgraded trim materials, and additional luxury features. These enhancements help create a more upscale environment without dramatically increasing complexity.

The third row remains the cabin’s weakest area. It works well for children and occasional use, but adults may find headroom and legroom limited during longer journeys. Families that regularly use all three rows may prefer larger alternatives such as the Chevrolet Traverse or Kia Telluride.

Technology & Infotainment

Technology is one area where the Acadia is beginning to show its age. Every model includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports. The system remains user-friendly and easy to operate.

One advantage of the Acadia’s infotainment setup is its simplicity. Physical buttons and knobs remain available for many key functions, allowing drivers to make adjustments without navigating complicated touchscreen menus. This layout is particularly useful while driving.

Buyers who choose higher trims can also access features such as built-in navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Amazon Alexa integration, and premium audio upgrades. These features help improve everyday convenience, even if the overall infotainment experience no longer feels cutting-edge compared with newer rivals.

However, many competitors now offer significantly larger displays, sharper graphics, and more advanced software interfaces. While the Acadia’s technology package remains functional and reliable, it no longer feels like a segment leader in infotainment innovation.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy depends largely on which engine buyers choose. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder is the most efficient option in the lineup and delivers respectable numbers for a midsize three-row SUV.

EPA estimates reach up to 22 mpg in city driving and 29 mpg on the highway for certain front-wheel-drive four-cylinder models. Choosing all-wheel drive results in a slight reduction in efficiency, but the overall difference remains relatively small.

The available 3.6-liter V6 sacrifices a few miles per gallon in exchange for substantially stronger performance. Despite the lower fuel economy ratings, many buyers may find the V6 worthwhile because of its smoother power delivery, greater towing capability, and improved overall driving experience.

Practicality & Cargo Space

Practicality has always been one of the GMC Acadia’s primary selling points. While it may not offer the cavernous interior space of some larger three-row SUVs, it still provides enough versatility for most families. The combination of multiple seating configurations and flexible cargo arrangements helps the Acadia adapt to a wide variety of daily needs.

The second row is particularly accommodating, offering ample room for adults and making family road trips more comfortable. Available captain’s chairs add an extra level of convenience while creating easier access to the third row.

Cargo capacity is respectable, though it falls short of class leaders. Behind the third row, available storage space is limited compared with competitors such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Kia Telluride, and Volkswagen Atlas. Families who frequently travel with all seats occupied may occasionally find themselves wishing for additional room.

Folding the third-row seats significantly improves cargo capacity and transforms the Acadia into a far more practical vehicle for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or larger household items. The flat-loading floor and wide cargo opening make loading and unloading relatively easy.

For buyers who only use the third row occasionally, the Acadia strikes a reasonable balance between passenger space and cargo flexibility. Families who regularly use all three rows and carry large amounts of cargo may find larger alternatives such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Volkswagen Atlas, or Kia Telluride more accommodating. It may not be the largest SUV in the segment, but its more manageable size is part of what makes it appealing for everyday family use.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety remains one of the strongest aspects of the 2023 GMC Acadia. GMC includes its Pro Safety Plus package as standard equipment, helping the Acadia remain competitive despite its aging platform.

Standard safety technologies include automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, following distance indicator, and automatic high-beam headlights. These systems work together to provide an extra layer of confidence during everyday driving.

Higher trims can also be equipped with additional driver-assistance features, including a surround-view camera system and enhanced trailering technologies. These upgrades are particularly useful for drivers who regularly tow or navigate crowded parking areas.

Available HD surround-view cameras and rear camera mirror technology can further improve visibility, particularly when parking or towing.

While some competitors now offer more advanced semi-autonomous driving features, the Acadia’s safety technology remains comprehensive and easy to use. Most importantly, the systems operate smoothly and unobtrusively, helping drivers stay aware of potential hazards without becoming overly intrusive.

Competitors Worth Considering

The Kia Telluride remains one of the strongest alternatives thanks to its spacious interior, upscale cabin, and exceptional value for money.

The Hyundai Palisade offers a more premium interior experience and a long list of standard features that make it one of the segment’s most refined family SUVs.

Buyers seeking a newer design and improved family practicality should also consider the Honda Pilot, which provides excellent passenger space and strong overall capability.

The Ford Explorer appeals to drivers who want more engaging road manners and a broader selection of powertrain options.

For maximum interior space and cargo capacity, the Chevrolet Traverse remains one of the most spacious choices in the segment and a particularly strong option for larger families.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

Among the Acadia lineup, the SLT trim equipped with the available 3.6-liter V6 represents the best balance of value, comfort, and performance. It delivers noticeably stronger acceleration than the standard turbocharged four-cylinder while adding several desirable convenience and comfort features.

The SLT also introduces a more premium feel through upgraded interior materials, additional technology, and enhanced comfort features that many families will appreciate during everyday use. For most buyers, it strikes the sweet spot between affordability and equipment.

While the Denali offers additional luxury features and a more upscale appearance, its higher price places it dangerously close to larger and more modern competitors. Unless buyers specifically want the Denali’s premium styling and equipment, the V6-powered SLT remains our recommended choice.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2023 GMC Acadia remains a capable and comfortable family SUV that continues to perform its intended role well. It offers a quiet cabin, smooth ride quality, strong available V6 power, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies.

Its greatest strength is balance. The Acadia is easier to maneuver than some larger three-row SUVs while still providing enough passenger space and versatility for most families. Buyers who rarely use the third row may actually prefer its more manageable size.

However, the segment has evolved significantly in recent years. Rivals such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse now offer more interior space, newer technology, and in some cases stronger overall value.

For shoppers who prioritize comfort, simplicity, and GMC’s premium styling, the Acadia remains a worthwhile option. It may no longer be the class leader, but it continues to be a well-rounded family SUV that successfully balances practicality, refinement, and everyday usability.

FAQ

Is the 2023 GMC Acadia a reliable family SUV?

The 2023 GMC Acadia has a generally solid reputation for reliability and benefits from a mature platform that has been refined over several model years. Regular maintenance and choosing the proven V6 engine can further enhance long-term ownership satisfaction.

Which engine is better in the 2023 GMC Acadia?

The available 3.6-liter V6 is the better choice for most buyers. It delivers stronger acceleration, smoother performance, and greater towing capability while sacrificing only a small amount of fuel efficiency compared with the standard turbocharged four-cylinder.

Is the third row in the 2023 GMC Acadia suitable for adults?

The third row is best suited for children and occasional adult use. While it can accommodate adults for short trips, competitors such as the Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse offer significantly more third-row space.

How much can the 2023 GMC Acadia tow?

When properly equipped with the available 3.6-liter V6 engine and towing package, the Acadia can tow up to 4,000 pounds, making it capable of handling small trailers, boats, and recreational equipment.

Which 2023 GMC Acadia trim offers the best value?

For most buyers, the SLT trim equipped with the available 3.6-liter V6 offers the best balance of price, comfort, performance, and features. It provides many of the premium amenities found in the Denali while maintaining a more reasonable price point.