The GMC Acadia II, specifically the 2.5-liter (193 horsepower) variant with an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s mid-size crossover SUV lineup. Produced from 2020 to 2023, this version of the Acadia underwent a substantial facelift, aiming to refine the vehicle’s aesthetics and enhance its market appeal. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the Acadia range, the 2.5L automatic served as the entry point to the model, providing a balance of affordability, space, and practicality for families. It falls within the broader context of the Acadia II generation (introduced in 2017), which aimed to address criticisms of the first-generation model regarding interior space and overall refinement. This variant competed directly with other mid-size crossovers like the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Acadia |
| Generation | Acadia II (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (193 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4400 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | LCV |
| Engine displacement | 2457 cm3 (149.94 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.9 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101.1 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1779 kg (3922.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 362 l (12.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2237 l (79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 454 kg (1000.9 lbs.) |
| Length | 4917 mm (193.58 in.) |
| Width | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Height | 1676 mm (65.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2858 mm (112.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Rear track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 183 mm (7.2 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic 9T65 |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 315 mm |
| Tires size | 245/65 R17; 255/65 R17; 235/65 R18; 235/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2020-2023 GMC Acadia 2.5L is the LCV inline four-cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine also features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT), further optimizing engine performance across a wider range of engine speeds. The 2.5-liter engine is paired exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission, specifically the Hydra-Matic 9T65. This transmission was designed to provide smooth shifting and contribute to improved fuel economy. The 9T65 features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often.
Driving Characteristics
The 193-horsepower, front-wheel-drive Acadia 2.5L delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is sufficient for everyday driving situations, but it may feel strained when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, or when attempting quick overtaking maneuvers. The nine-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, but some drivers have noted occasional hesitation or hunting for the right gear. Compared to the available 3.6-liter V6 engine in higher Acadia trims, the 2.5L offers significantly less power and torque. However, it provides a more fuel-efficient option for buyers prioritizing economy over outright performance. The gear ratios in the 9T65 are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning lower gears are taller, and higher gears are more overdrive-focused. This contributes to better highway fuel economy but can impact responsiveness in city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5L Acadia typically came standard with features such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and AT4, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger touchscreen display, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium Bose audio system, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth in the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was relatively straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use over extravagant design.
Chassis & Braking
The Acadia II utilizes a unibody construction, providing a good balance of strength and weight. The front suspension features independent McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration aims to deliver a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. The base 2.5L models typically featured smaller brake rotors compared to the V6-equipped trims. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance in emergency situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.5L Acadia received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but some found the engine to be underpowered, particularly when compared to competitors offering more potent engine options. Fuel economy figures were competitive within the mid-size crossover segment, typically achieving around 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the 2.5L engine and 9T65 transmission. However, some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional transmission quirks. Compared to the V6 Acadia, the 2.5L offered a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The 2020-2023 GMC Acadia 2.5L Automatic has established itself as a reasonably reliable and fuel-efficient option in the used car market. The LCV engine, while not known for blistering performance, has proven to be durable and relatively maintenance-free. The Hydra-Matic 9T65 transmission, despite some initial concerns, has generally held up well over time. As a result, these Acadia models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and spacious family SUV. The availability of affordable parts and a relatively straightforward mechanical design contribute to its continued appeal in the used car market.
