Are you interested in buying a 2022 GMC Acadia? According to MotorTrend, it’s in last place compared to other three-row SUVs. What makes it fall short, and how far behind is GMC’s offering? We compare the Acadia to other three-row SUVs and discuss the negatives of owning one.
The 2022 GMC Acadia is MotorTrend’s 12th worst three-row SUV
Out of 12 different three-row SUVs, the 2022 GMC Acadia is dead last. MotorTrend ranks its best models in each category every year, and the Acadia fell short. However, its overall rating isn’t terrible, just worse than its rivals. MT gave the Acadia an overall score of 7.1/10. That’s narrowly behind the 11th-ranked Volkswagen Atlas, which scored only .1 higher.
According to MT, the cons of owning a GMC Acadia aren’t a very long list. In short, the quality of materials on the interior could be much better. Additionally, it’s a smaller interior than the Chevy Traverse, the same SUV. If Chevy’s version of the Acadia is cheaper and more spacious inside, what’s the point of buying the GMC variant?
Last place GMC SUV gets better fuel economy than even the class leaders
MotorTrend‘s best three-row SUV is the 2022 Subaru Ascent. With an overall rating of 9/10, there’s a lot to like about it. Furthermore, it has a potent engine, off-road capability, and a sliding second row of seats. All of these are things the Acadia lacks. Subaru’s offering uses a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, making 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. However, the Acadia comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
On the other hand, GMC’s three-row model actually gets better fuel economy than the top-ranked Ascent. Moreover, its 22 city and 29 highway mpg is one of the best in the segment. Even the well-rounded Kia Telluride only averages 20/26 mpg, falling short of the Acadia. Additionally, the weaker GMC engine gives it better fuel economy than even its corporate equivalent, the Chevy Traverse, which averages 18/27 mpg.
Acadia pricing is competitive compared to other three-row SUVs
Three-row SUVs provide a lot of space and capability. They’re the perfect option for families with multiple children or just someone who needs a lot of space. However, those conveniences can be very expensive. Fortunately, even the lowest-ranked Acadia comes with a competitive price. Whether you’re going for the base model or a fully loaded version, GMC’s SUV isn’t far behind.
For a base model GMC Acadia, you’ll have to pay at least $34,800. Even in its highest trim level, the Acadia is only $48,600. Staying below the $50K mark is quite an accomplishment, especially compared to other models. For example, a range-topping Dodge Durango costs $66,275, and a top-tier Honda Pilot is $50,620. Even the Chevy Traverse, virtually the same as a GMC Acadia, costs $53,400 for a fully loaded model. Alternatively, the Traverse is cheaper in its base form, which helps drop the Acadia to last place.
Why is the GMC Acadia in last place?
There’s not much to dislike about the GMC Acadia. MotorTrend ranked it dead last compared to other three-row SUVs. It’s competitive in most aspects, like price and fuel economy. Its biggest problems lie with interior quality and space. Especially for three-row SUVs, the interior is an important selling point for most people. Those who require a three-row model likely plan to transport groups of people, family or otherwise, frequently. It would be nice to have a high-quality, spacious interior for those long drives. According to MT, you’ll need to look elsewhere for that kind of comfort.
