New Technologies, Family Features Highlight 2017 GMC Acadia

General Motors Co.’s redesigned GMC Acadia crossover/SUV is smaller, lighter and more efficient than its predecessor. It also gets a host of advanced safety features, an all-terrain mode and new interior amenities geared toward families.

The 2017 midsize Acadia due this spring is seven inches shorter and more than three inches narrower than the outgoing model. The vehicle’s smaller size and extensive use of high-strength steel trim 700 lbs in weight.

Buyers can choose between a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 310-hp 3.6-liter V-6. The four-banger is teamed with an automatic stop-start system—a first for GMC—to provide an estimated fuel efficiency of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

A new all-terrain variant includes a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system. GMC says the system improves hill-climbing capabilities to better compete against the Jeep Grand Cherokee but isn’t designed for extreme rock-crawling use like the Jeep Wrangler.

Available safety and convenience features include:

• Forward collision alert
• Pedestrian detection and automatic braking
• Following distance indicator
• Automatic headlamp high-beam control
• Surround vision camera system
• Lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning
• Lane change and side blind spot alert
• Front and rear parking assist

The Acadia’s interior can be configured for five, six or seven occupants. USB charging ports are positioned in all three rows, and the center console includes rear-facing storage bins accessible to backseat passengers.

The passenger-side second-row seat can tilt and slide forward—even with a child seat installed—for easier access to the third row. The third-row seats can be folded flat with release handles in the rear of the cargo bay.

Another new system reminds motorists who open a rear door at the start of a trip to check second- and third-row seats when they reach their destination. In addition to help with forgotten packages, GM notes, the system also helps prevent children from being inadvertently left in a vehicle.