GMC's Acadia continues to win over customers seeking the spaciousness and capability of an SUV with a smooth ride and responsive handling of a crossover. For 2009, Acadia receives an enhanced version of the 3.6L V-6 VVT engine that uses gasoline direct injection technology to help produce more power, greater fuel economy and increased towing capacity than the '08 model. The engine is paired with Acadia's fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission.
Acadia seats up to eight. It is offered in SLE and SLT trims, with SLT-1 and SLT-2 equipment packages available. All models are available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. A comprehensive safety system includes six standard air bags and standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and rollover mitigation technology.
Acadia 's body-frame integral structure enables lower entry/exit height for passengers. Despite the vehicle's SUV-like front-end height, the front door step-in height is only 18.9 inches (480 mm); the rear door step-in height is 19.8 inches (503 mm). Entry to the second- and third-row seats is eased with very wide rear doors and GM's exclusive Smart Slide second-row seat feature.
New Acadia exterior colors - Quicksilver Metallic and Silver-Green Metallic are added to the palette, replacing Liquid Silver Metallic and Blue-Gold Crystal Metallic.