The 2021 GMC Acadia lasts around 200,000 miles, with some average brake wear and transmission software issues reported. At $26,250 to $42,375, it’s a decent value for a midsize SUV, which is loaded with some of the latest tech.
Is the 2021 GMC Acadia a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year for the GMC Acadia since it offers a practical cabin with room for up to 7 passengers and good reliability. Owner reviews praise the upscale cabin, smooth suspension, and the nice stereo system.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are decent for an SUV in its price range, the seats are comfortable in the cabin, but cargo space is smaller than average.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2021 Acadia. Models from 2017–2018 have transmission problems, while newer models from 2019–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 8/10 – The standard four-cylinder is relatively weak, but the available V6 engine is strong for a midsize SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2021 Acadia is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with lane-change assist and a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist along with adaptive cruise control
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is fine at around 23 MPG, giving 420 miles of range from the 18.3 gallon tank. Gas costs are $20 cheaper than average at $176 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 GMC Acadia is cheaper than many other midsize SUVs on the market, with average depreciation rates, making it a decent value.
What Do Critics Say About the GMC Acadia?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 GMC Acadia is a competitive and practical family hauler, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the GMC Acadia at 3.7/5, enjoying the excellent stereo system, but doesn’t like the relatively weak base engine.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Acadia a 4.2/5, praising the strong engine choices, but owners don’t like that it doesn’t have advanced safety features on lower models.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 GMC Acadia Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 GMC Acadia include excessive brake wear, noise while steering, along with some delayed gear changes. Overall, these problems are a bit worse than some other midsize SUVs, which can lead to some higher ownership costs as it ages.
Excessive brake wear is the most widespread complaint from 2021 Acadia owners, showing up at around 12,000 miles. Usually, front brake pads tend to wear down quickly, and have to be replaced. Changing out the brake pads costs around $150, while rotors are an additional $400 if they have been damaged.
Noise while steering is another problem found on some GMC Acadia models at roughly 5,000 miles. The problem is typically caused by the power steering motor, which wears out quickly. Changing out the power steering motor costs around $650 if it’s out of warranty, but is usually covered on a vehicle when it’s relatively new.
Delayed gear changes have also been reported by some GMC Acadia owners within the first 1,000 miles. Usually, the problem is just caused by software issues with the transmission control module. There are some software updates available which improve the speed of the gear changes. Most dealers will update it for free, while others charge around $100.
There are two recalls on the 2021 GMC Acadia, which is similar to other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers fuel supply lines, which were improperly installed, leading to a fuel leak. The second recall covers the rearview camera. GMC will replace the parts on affected models for free to fix both of them.
How Long Will the 2021 GMC Acadia Last?
A well-maintained 2021 GMC Acadia can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $719 per year.
As a used 2021 Acadia reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the headlamp switch for $125, engine oil cooler costing $300, along with the alternator, which costs around $800.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is very good, and includes an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional upgrades include a more powerful Bose stereo system.
Standard safety technology is great and features:
- Rearview camera
- Teen driver mode
- Lane-change assist
- Rear-seat alert
- Rear parking sensors
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Optional driver assistance upgrades are available, such as:
- Forward collision warning
- Front pedestrian braking
- Lane-departure warning
- Safety alert seat
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keep assist
- Front parking sensors
- Rear-camera mirror
- Adaptive cruise control
Is the 2021 GMC Acadia a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 GMC Acadia is a good value if you’re looking for a midsize SUV with some advanced technology features. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $26,250 to $42,375, making it less than a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Kia Telluride. When new, the price range was $29,800 to $48,600. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the GMC Acadia?
There are five main models of the 2021 GMC Acadia offered from the entry-level SL through to the more luxurious Denali. The Acadia comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
GMC Acadia SL is the entry-level model with:
- 193-hp 2.5L four-cylinder engine
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Cloth upholstery
- 8-inch touch screen
- Six-speaker stereo system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Satellite radio
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- USB ports and Bluetooth
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Rearview camera
- Rear parking sensors
- Teen Driver system
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-change assist
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Rear-seat alert
- No option for stronger engines or all-wheel drive
GMC Acadia SLE is a step up, adding:
- Optional turbo-four or V6 engines
- Available all-wheel drive
- Driver Convenience package (optional):
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Possible wireless device charging
- Optional rear-seat entertainment system
GMC Acadia SLT has more features such as:
- 230-hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine
- Optional V6 engine and all-wheel drive
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Remote start
- Eight-speaker Bose audio system
- HD Radio
- Navigation
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Front pedestrian braking
- Lane-keep assist
- Lane-departure warning
- Front parking sensors
- Safety alert seat
- Preferred package (optional):
- Power-adjustable passenger seat
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated rear outboard seats
GMC Acadia AT4 focuses on off-road performance with:
- 310-hp V6 engine
- Off-road-tuned all-wheel-drive system
- Hill descent control
GMC Acadia Denali is the flagship model with:
- V6 engine
- Power-adjustable passenger seat
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Wireless device charging
- Denali Technology package (optional):
- Rear-camera mirror
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Optional sunroof
- Optional rear-seat entertainment system
What Engines Come In the GMC Acadia?
- The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, delivering 193 horsepower and 188 lb.-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, this engine achieves a combined fuel economy of around 24 MPG. Although not the quickest, it offers a 0-60 MPH time of 9 seconds, suitable for everyday driving.
- For those seeking more power, the Acadia also offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine ramps up performance to 230 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque. Fuel economy remains respectable for its class, with a combined estimate of around 22 MPG. The turbocharged engine improves acceleration, reducing the 0-60 MPH time to about 7 seconds, providing a more responsive and engaging driving experience.
- The top engine choice in the 2021 Acadia lineup is the 3.6-liter V6. This engine is the most powerful, offering 310 horsepower and 271 lb.-ft of torque. Despite its larger size and increased power, it maintains a combined fuel economy of 21 MPG, thanks to the efficient nine-speed automatic transmission. With this engine, the Acadia can achieve a 0-60 MPH time of just under 6.5 seconds, making it a strong performer in the midsize SUV segment.
What Colors Does the GMC Acadia Come In?
How Comfortable Is the GMC Acadia?
The 2021 GMC Acadia stands out as a comfortable and accommodating vehicle, designed with both driver and passenger comfort in mind. Inside the cabin, occupants are greeted by a spacious and well-appointed interior, characterized by soft-touch materials and ergonomic design. The front seats, in particular, are a highlight, offering ample support and adjustability, including options for lumbar support and heating or cooling features in higher trims. This attention to seating comfort makes sure that both the driver and front passenger can enjoy long journeys without discomfort. The quiet cabin further enhances the driving experience, as it effectively minimizes road and wind noise, creating a serene environment for conversation or enjoying the audio system.
In terms of passenger comfort, the second and third rows of the Acadia do not disappoint. The second-row seats provide adequate legroom and headroom, accommodating adults comfortably, which is not always a given in vehicles of this class. The third row, more suitable for children or shorter trips, still offers more space than many competitors in the midsize SUV category. Climate control vents for rear passengers add to the comfort, allowing occupants in all rows to customize their environment. Additionally, the smooth ride quality of the Acadia, thanks to its well-tuned suspension, makes sure that passengers experience minimal jostling, even on less than-perfect road surfaces.
Overall, the 2021 GMC Acadia excels in providing a comfortable driving and riding experience. From its supportive and adjustable seating to the quiet and smooth ride, it demonstrates a keen understanding of what makes a vehicle comfortable for both short commutes and longer journeys. This makes it an appealing choice for families and individuals who prioritize comfort in their vehicle selection.
How Much Storage Space Does the GMC Acadia Have?
The 2021 GMC Acadia offers a versatile and spacious interior, designed to meet the diverse needs of families and adventurers alike. The vehicle’s storage space is highlighted by its generous cargo capacity, which stands at an impressive 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row of seats. This space expands significantly when the third row is folded down, increasing to 41.7 cubic feet. For those requiring maximum cargo capacity, folding down both the second and third rows opens up a cavernous 79 cubic feet of room. This expansive space is more than adequate for a variety of needs, whether it’s transporting large items like furniture or accommodating luggage and sports equipment for a family road trip.
In addition to the main cargo area, the 2021 Acadia is replete with cleverly designed small storage solutions throughout the cabin. The center console is notably deep, providing a convenient space for personal items such as wallets, phones, and small bags. Door pockets in both the front and rear are generously sized, suitable for holding water bottles, maps, or tablets. An under-floor storage area in the rear adds an extra layer of convenience, offering a hidden space for valuables or items that need to be kept out of sight. The glove compartment and additional cubbies and pockets scattered throughout the interior further enhance the Acadia’s practicality, making sure passengers have ample space to store their belongings comfortably and securely.
Overall, the 2021 GMC Acadia’s thoughtful design combines substantial cargo capacity with numerous small storage options, making it an ideal choice for those who require both space and organization in their vehicle. Whether it’s a day-to-day commute, a weekend adventure, or a long-distance journey, the Acadia provides the flexibility and space to cater to a wide range of transportation needs.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The second generation of the GMC Acadia was launched for the 2017 model year.
2015: No significant changes from earlier years.
2016: A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot has been added to all models.
2017: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new engines, technology, exterior, and interior.
2018: The all-terrain package is now available with a third row of seating.
2019: No major changes.
2020: Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine available, updated navigation system, and a better nine-speed automatic transmission.
2021: Elevation Edition model was added with black exterior trim, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android auto added.
How Does the GMC Acadia Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 GMC Acadia is a decent midsize SUV if you’re looking for a choice with a lot of passenger room and some of the latest technology features.
The Chevy Traverse is a larger SUV, which is available in the same price range. Passenger and cargo space are both better in the Chevy Traverse, while the GMC Acadia offers a higher-quality interior. We recommend the Chevy Traverse, but both are similar SUVs worth testing out to see which fits your style better.
The Ford Explorer is another midsize SUV, which costs about $1,500 more. Performance is better in the Ford Explorer, while the GMC Acadia offers some higher-quality seats. We recommend the Ford Explorer since it’s more fun to drive, but both are decent choices for a midsize SUV.
