You might not know it just by looking at them, but the 2012 GMC Acadia and 2012 Buick Enclave are getting long in the tooth. With model-year releases in 2007 and 2008 respectively, the two platform mates from General Motors may still look modern, but the bones underneath are in need of an update. The refreshed crossovers will roll out for model year 2013, and our spy photographer recently caught a pair of testers wearing some heavy camouflage.
From what we can see in the photos, the overall shape remains the same. The Enclave, however, seems to be sporting a much larger front grille, while the Acadia, which appears to be a Denali model, appears unchanged. Also heavily concealed was the interior, which no doubt will get a more dramatic refresh than the exterior. In our most recent tests of the Enclave and Acadia, we found the interiors to be dated, full of hard plastics, and absent of many amenities found in competitors such as power-folding third-row seats, voice-activated nav, and smart keyless entry.
We should also expect to see an update to the powertrain, which currently consists of one engine choice -- a 3.6-liter, direct-injection V-6 that puts out 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It's mated to a six-speed auto that sends power to the front or all four wheels. Power is decent, but fuel economy, though better than some competitors, could be improved. There are rumors that a smaller-displacement turbocharged engine will either replace or be available as an option to the 3.6-liter V-6.
As we reported last year, the Lambda platform that the Enclave and Acadia (and the Chevy Traverse) share isn't due for an overhaul until the 2014 or 2015 model year. Will the upcoming refresh be enough to keep GM's crossovers competitive in this crowded segment?