We’ve caught prototypes of the 2020 GMC Acadia refresh undergoing testing several times over the past year, but these new spy photos give us our best look yet at the upcoming update to the midsize CUV.
Gone is the heavy tarp-style camouflage covering the front end of previous prototypes; in its place is a tight-fitting checkered camo wrap that – for the first time – shows the actual shape of the facelited front end.
The shots clearly show the 2020 GMC Acadia facelift as having a more upright front fascia design with squared-off edges, as compared to the current model. In fact, the new design is reminiscent to the second-generation 2018 GMC Terrain and 2019 GMC Sierra, thereby bringing the design of the oldest crossover in the GMC lineup in line with the rest of the brand’s vehicles.
2020 GMC Acadia prototype
2017-2019 GMC Acadia
2018-2020 GMC Terrain
These shots, however, don’t show the headlights as well as the prior shots we got a week ago. So, let’s revisit the topic of 2020 GMC Acadia headlights real quick. From what we can see, Big Red’s midsize CUV will feature a full-LED headlight treatment that contains two LED reflectors and GMC’s signature C-shaped LED light pipe within each headlight cluster.
It would appear that changes to the rear end seem to be less extensive than those to the front, being limited to a new bumper cover design as well as new taillights. Though there’s a good deal of checkered camo covering the rear end, we can still make out GMC’s C-shaped LED signatures at the rear.
Other changes expected for the 2020 GMC Acadia refresh include the addition of the new GM 9-speed automatic transmission to replace the current 6-speed auto in the current models. We’ve also heard that there could be a change in the crossover’s equipment group/trim level structure, though we have yet to come across material that would substantiate this rumor.
We expect to see the updated 2020 GMC Acadia make its debut within the next few months, potentially at the 2018 Los Angeles International Auto Show in November or at next January at the 2019 North American International Auto Show in January. Equally likely is a debut at a private event separate from either auto venue.
About GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia is a mid-size crossover utility vehicle (CUV). It is the largest GMC crossover currently offered, slotting above the compact GMC Terrain.
The current model was introduced for the 2017 model year and represents the second generation of the Acadia nameplate. It rides on the GM C1 platform shared with the Cadillac XT5. It is expected that the upcoming, future Chevrolet Blazer will ride on the same platform. Meanwhile, the second-generation Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave use a longer-wheelbase variant of the same architecture.
Compared to its first-generation predecessor, the second-gen Acadia is an all-new vehicle that is one size segment smaller, while also being sleeker, more modern, more tech-laden and much lighter. Despite its smaller size, the second-gen Acadia manages to retain three rows of seating and generous cargo space.
For the 2018 model year, the Acadia got a new color, automatic heated steering wheel in place of the manual heated steering wheel, Tire Fill Alert, some new wheels on the SLT-1 All Terrain model, as well as broader availability of the 3.6L V-6 engine and All-Terrain package.
For the 2019 model year, the Acadia receives several new colors, Express Up and Down window controls for the driver's-side controls as standard on the SLE-2 and SLT-1 trims, the expanded availability of the Ebony interior color with the All-Terrain package on the SLT trim level and the introduction of the Acadia Black Edition.
The Acadia Black Edition was introduced for the 2019 model year
A midcycle refresh arrives for the 2020 model year that delivers updated styling, the new GM 9-speed automatic transmission, a new turbo-charged 2.0L I-4 LSY engine, a new AT4 model that replaces the Acadia All Terrain, interior updates, and various other improvements.
The GMC Acadia is built exclusively at the GM Spring Hill factory in Tennessee operated by GM USA.
Related News & Info
- GM news
- GM forums
- GMC Acadia information
- Running GM sales results
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- Running GMC Acadia sales results
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Comments
Could the Blazer 3rd row spy shots really be this updated Acadia. The 2 SUV’s are becoming rebadged twins, with the same tranny, engine and 3rd row seating options.
“Could the Blazer 3rd row spy shots really be this updated Acadia.”
I replied to you in a different thread when you asked the same question, and the answer is still no.
What you see here is how a prototype of a midcycle refresh (MCE) looks like.
The spy shots of what we labeled as a hypothetical third row Blazer is an integrations prototype that is a step in developing a new vehicle.
That outboard driver’s side dash vent matches more the one in the “Blazer 3 row” shot. The Blazer has Camaro HVAC vents.
Change of grille from trapezoidal to bulldog-esque went from classy to rugged. Which is what GMC is about, but that’s also what I liked about the Acadia. For a long time one of the few CUVs I liked was the first gen Acadia
I just hope changes are not only cosmetical. 9 speed transmission should have been implemented when they released this gen of Acadia. I would get this car if they replace 3.6 V6 engine with something more powerful. Like a new twin turbo 3.0 V6. Current engine is too weak for it.
Bottom edge of tail lights looks like 1-2 inches lower, with top edge being in the same as before location.
Looks more sport utility like and less van like, which is the way to go.
Until they do something about the ride height, massive front overhang, interior quality, and greenhouse….it will still look like a minivan and only appeal to fat middle aged women in second tier suburbs.
Your comment is a loaded pile of flaming garbage. The Acadia is selling really well so it looks like you’re in the minority.
Why don’t you do this: figure out what the masses want in a vehicle, and tell me the Acadia doesn’t fit that bills almost perfectly. Then come back and complain about non-starter items like the ones you listed.
– Putting people in their place since 2018… Rob –
What exactly is wrong with my comment? The exact same demographic that made the Caravan popular 20 years ago is who buys the Acadia today.
Fat women from lower middle class suburbs. That’s who buys the Acadia. That’s who GMC is going after with both this cheap POS and the Terrain.
If you want a big, cheap van with a plastic interior, you can get a 2018 Acadia Denali with about $6500 off at my local dealer. They park them right next to all the leftover 2017 Envisions, which target the exact same demographic.
member 12:
1. What is the source of your demographical “findings”?
Heck, referring to your hostile and rather ridiculous observations as “demographical findings” is like calling a Daewoo Matiz a Chevrolet.
Do you have any actual reports that you are basing your information on? Have you studied or even seen just one cross-sale report confirming the topics you are bringing up?
You don’t have to answer… because your comments demonstrate that you haven’t done any of those things. Ever.
2. What is it to you who or whom GMC may or may not be targeting? How does this impact you, ultimately?
The point of GM, at least in the past when it was run like a global automaker with a product for everyone and every price, is to serve an extremely wide gamut of buyers – rich, poor, and anywhere in between.
So again, what’s your point… is it only to hate or do your words actually have some substance?
My 2008 GMC Acadia has been the worst car I’ve ever owned!! Ive never owned a car with so many issues! My friend’s 2010 Acadia has had the same issues. We’ve had to replace the transmission, traction control keeps going out, a ton of electronics issues that will mimic a transmission, air & heating have gone out..the list continues. My car still “looks great,” but if you cant improve the basic mechanics & electrical issues on your vehicles, who care what it looks like! This experience has sealed the deal on me ever buying any GMC in fear of these same issues.
Sounds like you bought a used car in bad shape and are now trying to lay blame to the manufacturer for your bad decision.
Also, both you AND you friend needed new transmissions? What are the odds of that? What are you doing to these cars that they need new transmissions?
Sometimes, user error is the root of problems. I wonder if that’s the case for you.
– Putting people in their place since 2018… Rob –
The first generation Lambda cars had atrocious build quality issues. I thought they were mostly ironed out by 2010 though.
The selling point was the generous amount of legroom in the 3rd row seat, which was not really available at that time unless you got a minivan (or a massive Suburban). They also drove and handled pretty well. The original Enclave actually looked very nice too.
The Accadia is a minivan, and I wouldn’t buy a minivan from anyone other than Honda or Toyota even if I wanted one.
Clearly, thousands of people disagree with you every month by buying and enjoying the Acadia in droves.
Try driving your Honda or Toyota minivan on a soft trail to a camping ground and call a GMC Acadia owner to pull you out when you bottom out.
We had a 2014 Acadia Denali that had been in the shop 14 times for electrical, transmission, airbag sensors, seating, etc in 2.5 years. The moment we picked it up a rear seat piece was popped out and broken. That should have been a huge red flag. We pushed hard on our dealer and GM to buy the car back and they gave us a very good deal on a 2017 Yukon Denali which has only had some minor issues and is WAY more reliable and better built.
It comes down to this:
2014 Acadia = Old GM = Crappy quality
2017 Yukon = New GM = Good quality
Acadia’s refresh shows that the tiny headlights of the Chevrolet Blazer is moving to the design of other CUV; one has to wonder how long will it be until we see big SUVs like the Suburban get styling that emphasizes a push towards aerodynamics and tiny headlights or will they transition to electric drive first.
1. The lighting treatment of the 2020 Acadia won’t be in any way similar to that of the 2019 Blazer. Look at the two side-by-side… the Acadia doesn’t have a single styling element similar to the Blazer besides having four wheels and five doors.
2. Are you equating tiny headlights (they’re actually DRLs on the Blazer, but ok) with better aerodynamics? That’s a stretch…
The current Acadia is a great looking car with a fantastic power train. I would definitely buy one, however if the new one gets the push-button selector, then there’s not a chance in hell that I would buy one. The new 1.6L TD would a very much welcome addition though.
And you might say “he’s lying, the presence of a gear selector does not make or break a vehicle purchase” well for me; it does.
While the Equinox has better towing power, the 1.6L TD is a snail. The 2,8L TD would be a great hauler and beat the 2.4L gas engine hands down. I don’t see why GM hasn’t started to use the 2.8L TD in the bigger SUV’s. Of course GMC would only put it in a Denali pushing the price to over 60K!
Well since I have skin in this game here as an owner here is my view.
First too soon to make a call but so far the more upright and square to me is not a move forward. It reminds me of my old Terrain. I liked my Terrain but it was 2012.
Will see how the rest looks before I make a call.
Now as for number 12. GM has a number of SUV models and has the liberty to make these models all appeal to different segments of the buyers out there.
The Acadia looks like a smaller Yukon in shape. It drives and rides better than the Cherokee.
This is not a full on off road vehicle but it can do it when called upon. But yet with the vari ride in sport mode it can ride and drive like a touring sedan on the road with 40 front 60 rear split.
Over half of the drivers for this are like my wife who wants a versital, V6, comfortable vehicle that meets her needs not only in usability but also weather and comfort. She is not going to Moab but we do unimproved in the Smokey Mountains with no issue.
GM has spread the field well and their sales and profits show it. They have more model yet to come so it should only improve.
The upright and blocky design is a major plus for me. For far too long, GM has not had a clear design direction for GMC. It has a ways been a mix of left over parts bin stuff from other GM brands or a full on rebadge of Pontiacs (First gen terrain) or chevys (Sierra).
It’s time GM realized its advantage of having multiple mainstream brands (yes, gmc is still a mainstream brand no matter how much it says that it’s a premium brand) and make gmc vehicles very bold in design.
The first and second gen terrain did that very well, the Acadia did not – it went too conservative and too soft, though it’s by no means ugly. It’s time to align the entire brand under a single design direction of bold, strong, prominent designs.
GMC should be for those who want to make a statement. This facelift will make the Acadia statement worthy.
Very good comment Scott. That’s what I’m thinking too.
I like it. Looks are in the eyes of the beholder however. I also like the 2019 Sierra. And just to add to conversation all of us around our parts liked the old terrain much over the new one. And that is assuming it does look like the new Sierra. I have never driven an Acadia though so not much good on that aspect. The 9 speed can only help.
Sherri is also correct on the 2008, 2009 and into 2010 of numerous issues, they were somewhat the same on the 2009 Enclave of my mother in laws. Fuel tank baffle comes loose, fuel sender was faulty you could never trust the gas gauge, steering rack had a wear item you could not steer at low engine speeds, 3.6 timing chain at 75,000 miles, cooled seat defect, air bag defect, HVAC controller faulty, and these are very well known issues with the Acadia, enclave, and traverse of that area, well some different do to the different interior components. Most were corrected with recalls and extended coverage IF YOU BOUGHT YOUR VEHICLE NEW. In other words GM fixed some peoples and not others regardless of age or mileage.
I do admire GMs perseverance on these models, they fixed the issues kept the models perfected them and moved forward the new ones are awesome in my opinion. But if they didn’t fix yours I bet you don’t feel that way. My mother in law paid for every correction except the recalls, not one of the lucky ones.