The GMC Acadia II, specifically the 2.5-liter (193 horsepower) All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Automatic variant, was produced from 2016 to 2019. This model represented a significant redesign of the original Acadia, moving to the GM P2V platform, and aimed to offer a more refined and efficient mid-size crossover SUV experience. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the Acadia lineup, it served as the entry point to the model range, slotting below the more powerful 3.6-liter V6 options. The Acadia II was GMC’s offering in the increasingly popular two-row/three-row crossover segment, competing with vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Acadia |
| Generation | Acadia II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (193 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| 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) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4000 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LCV |
| Engine displacement | 2457 cm3 (149.94 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 362 l (12.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2237 l (79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 4917 mm (193.58 in.) |
| Width | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Height | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2858 mm (112.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 182 mm (7.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/65 R17; 235/65 R18; 235/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Acadia 2.5 was the LCV 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilized direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine also featured a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT), further optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this variant. This transmission was known for its smooth shifting characteristics and reliability. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive-based architecture, coupled with the AWD system, provided decent traction in various weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 193-horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 2.5-liter engine provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for everyday driving situations, but passing maneuvers at highway speeds required planning. The 6-speed automatic transmission was tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in relatively conservative gear ratios. Compared to the available 3.6-liter V6, the 2.5-liter felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to slightly improved handling and a more balanced feel. The AWD system provided enhanced stability and traction, particularly in inclement weather, but didn’t transform the Acadia into a performance SUV.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5-liter Acadia typically came standard with features like tri-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, and a premium Bose audio system. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth in the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the 2.5-liter models, featuring a user-friendly layout with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Acadia II utilized an independent suspension system at all four corners. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear featured a multi-link setup. This suspension configuration aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Stabilizer bar thickness was moderate, prioritizing ride comfort over aggressive cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the Acadia 2.5 as a competent and practical crossover SUV, but noted its lack of outright performance compared to V6-powered rivals. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 2.5-liter engine achieving EPA estimates of around 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system. Compared to the 3.6-liter V6 Acadia, the 2.5-liter offered a lower price point and better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who didn’t require maximum power. The V6, however, provided significantly more robust acceleration and towing capacity.
Legacy
The GMC Acadia II 2.5-liter AWD Automatic has become a relatively common sight in the used car market. The LCV engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing chain inspection (though less frequent than belt replacements), and monitoring of the direct injection system for potential carbon buildup. The Hydra-Matic transmission is generally considered robust, but fluid changes are crucial for long-term health. Today, these Acadia models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and relatively fuel-efficient mid-size crossover SUV.
