The second generation of the GMC Acadia was released as a smaller, lighter, and more pedestrian SUV. This was because GMC plans to make a larger body-on-frame SUV that would ride on the same platform as the GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado trucks. However, that plan was canceled, and for the past few years, GMC has been left with a hole in the lineup ever since. Luckily, it seems the next-generation GMC Acadia seeks to right the course by returning to its roots as a 3-row SUV.
During GM President Mark Reuss’s presentation during the 2022 General Motors Investor Day, this rumor that we previously reported on has been confirmed. Meaning that the Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride, and the more recent Jeep Grand Cherokee L are about to get some more competition in the segment.
“So, alongside of the Travers, we’ll move the GMC Acadia to a little bit different size standpoint,” said Reuss. “So, this comes in a little bigger than the old Acadia, so it’s a big transformation for GMC and its part in the market. Again, very handsome, very much GMC truck premium; you know, it’s really a, just a professional grade SUV in this 3-row category for us.”
MC&T sources understand that the initial replacement for the larger GMC Acadia as going to be a body-on-frame SUV based on the GMC Canyon pickup truck. This program was canceled in 2018, and Big Red has had a big hole in its product lineup ever since. However, the new Acadia won’t be a body-on-frame vehicle related to a truck. Instead, it will be an evolution of the architecture that it currently rides on, and is internally known as C1XX-2.
Next-Generation GMC Acadia: Details
As MC&T exclusively reported, the next-generation GMC Acadia is expected to begin production by 2024. Design-wise, the front fascia is expected to resemble the GMC Canyon, which debuted its new generation earlier this year as a 2023 model. This means that smaller lights located at the top appear narrow and thin will take shape, while bigger C-shaped housing containing lights further down is expected. The powertrain will continue to be internal combustion, though we could see an electric variant debut at some point in the future.
The 2024 GMC Acadia is also expected to get Super Cruise on higher trim levels, and there will undoubtedly be a digital instrument display behind the steering wheel. Other innovations expected on various trims could include a pneumatic suspension system for the Acadia AT4 to increase the ride height and towing capacities that exceed 5,000 pounds.
Image via GM Design.
