What's Changed on the 2016 GMC Acadia
- Most significant changes: 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi hot spot; new SL trim
- Price change: $200 increase on all trims.
- On sale: Mid- to late summer
- Which should you buy, 2015 or 2016? 2015
It’s hard to believe that the GMC Acadia full-size crossover SUV is entering its 10th model year in the same basic form that debuted for 2007. That’s ancient history in the auto industry, yet the Acadia offers leading-edge technology like 4G LTE, optional forward collision and lane departure warnings, a head-up display and standard features such as a backup camera, LED running lights and a center airbag between the front seats.
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Like its GM siblings the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse, the Acadia has aged well and remains competitive in performance, room and features. The 3.6-liter V-6 provides reasonable acceleration and fuel economy; the comfort and convenience features are largely up-to-date; it seats up to eight people; and it can tow up to 5,200 pounds.
The new SL trim is the de-facto base model and starts at $31,900 including a $925 destination charge.
The 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot that can support up to seven devices at once is a new standard feature. It includes a free three-month trial period; after that, the owner has to cough up for a data plan.
Having internet access on the fly is a nice feature, especially if everyone onboard would rather connect to the outside world than talk. That makes a short wait for a 2016 model the right move, especially since prices are up by only $200.
But GMC is dangling tantalizing discounts on 2015 models, so bargain hunters and those happy with plain old cellular reception for their devices should consider what’s on dealer lots now to save money.
