The GMC Acadia arrived in 2007, a crossover utility vehicle that is larger than a typical mid-size CUV but not quite as big as a traditional full-size SUV. It can seat up to eight passengers, can tow up to 5,200 pounds, and can hold as much as 117 cubic feet of cargo. It shares its front- or all-wheel drive powertrain and platform with the Buick Enclave and Saturn Outlook, as well as the upcoming 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.

Here is what changed on the 2008 GMC Acadia:
• Standard panic brake assist system
• Enhancements to Acadia’s “intelligent” AWD system
• Refinements to the standard traction control system
• Available reversing camera with optional navigation system
• Standard XM satellite radio
• Second-row console standard with seven-passenger seating configuration
• New colors: Dark Crimson, Carbon Flash, and Platinum Ice

The 2008 GMC Acadia is available in SLE and SLT trim levels, with front- or all-wheel drive. Choosing SLT trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats with 6-way power adjustment for the driver, second-row captain’s chairs, three-zone automatic climate control, Bose 5.1 surround sound system with six-disc CD changer, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Homelink universal remote, a compass, an outside temperature display, and side signaling mirrors.

Options for the GMC Acadia include the ability to equip the SLE model with many of the SLT’s standard features, such as the power driver’s seat, steering wheel radio controls, Bose 5.1 surround sound system, and second-row captain’s chairs. Purchasing the SLT trim rewards the buyer with exclusive access to features like an 8-way power driver’s seat with memory, power folding side mirrors, a navigation system, a Skyscape dual panel glass roof, a head-up information display, a power tailgate, and a 115-volt power outlet. Both models can be equipped with Ultrasonic parking assist, remote engine starting, a trailering package, and a rear DVD entertainment system.

The 2008 GMC Acadia is powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine making 275 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 251 lb.-ft. of torque at 3200 rpm on regular unleaded fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the front or to all four wheels.

Standard safety features on the 2008 GMC Acadia include six airbags: dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags with rollover sensing protection for all three rows of seats. Antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, and stability control are also standard. The Acadia also has Hydraulic Brake Failure Compensation, which is designed to help stop the vehicle in the event that the brakes are fading.

Additionally, the Acadia comes standard with OnStar telematics, which includes GM’s Advanced Automatic Crash Notification feature. In the event of an airbag deployment, an OnStar advisor is notified, the Acadia’s location is determined, and the advisor calls rescue and medical personnel to the scene while trying to contact the driver by voice through the OnStar system.

J.D. Power and Associates says the GMC Acadia competes against mid-size multi-activity vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica, Ford Taurus X, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Veracruz, Mazda CX-9, Subaru Tribeca, Toyota Highlander, and others.

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