Drew Dowdell

GMC introduced the refreshed 2020 GMC Acadia today. The bold new front-end design brings the Acadia more in line with the styling of GMC’s full-size trucks. As with the GMC Sierra 1500 and 2500, the Acadia gains an AT4 trim level that will eventually find its way to all GMC models. The AT4 designation slots between the top-end Denali and the SLT trim line. AT4 comes standard with a 3.6 liter V6 producing 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed to all wheels via a standard twin-clutch AWD system and a now standard across the lineup 9-speed automatic transmission. Additional AT4 features include darkened finished for a more off-road look. Joining the existing 2.5 liter 4-cylinder and 3.6 liter V6 is a new 2.0T engine. This engine features GM’s tripower valvetrain that varies valve lift depending on driving needs and can deactivate 2 cylinders in light loads to give better fuel economy. The Turbo is a dual scroll developed specifically with low-speed torque in mind. Peak torque is available from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. This new engine has an estimated rating of 230 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is standard on the SLT and Denali. The 9-speed automatic introduces GMC’s Electronic Precision Shift to the Acadia. Similar to in the Terrain, a row of toggle switches on the dash acts as the gear selector thereby freeing up center console storage space. The Acadia’s infotainment system has been updated to the latest version as well. It features an all-new navigation interface with improved route guidance and personalized settings. Connected Navigation offers real-time updates to traffic conditions and additional information from a cloud database. Connected Navigation is offered with a trial subscription. Two new USB-C charging ports have been added, which including the existing USB-A ports brings the total to 5, allowing for more rapid charging of power hungry devices. Also available options are: next-gen 15-watt wireless charging, a high definition rear vision camera, rear vision camera mirror available on Denali. Trim packages on the 2020 GMC Acadia are SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali with 5, 6, or 7 passenger seating available depending on model. The 2020 GMC Acadia will be built in Spring Hill TN and goes on sale in Fall of 2019. See page 2 for the GMC press release. DETROIT — Smarter technologies in the 2020 GMC Acadia, including a new available turbo engine and the latest GMC infotainment system1, along with a fresh look, offer greater versatility for customers on the go. The lineup includes SLE, SLT, an all-new AT4 trim and GMC’s flagship Denali, with available seating arrangements for five, six or seven passengers, depending on the model. “The 2020 Acadia is stylish, functional and capable with more of the smart convenience and connectivity features that customers rely on every day,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global GMC. “And with GMC’s signature refinement at its core, the new Acadia advances the brand’s commitment to offering premium vehicles for discerning crossover customers.” Design and technology enhancements on the new Acadia include: Bolder exterior design with standard LED lighting and signature GMC C-shape lighting, complemented with interior refinements. Introduction of the first-ever Acadia AT4 with more aggressive exterior styling and darkened finishes. New available 2.0L turbocharged engine that uses an innovative tripower valvetrain and dual-scroll turbocharging technologies to help optimize performance and efficiency in all driving conditions. New nine-speed automatic transmission developed to provide a greater balance of performance and efficiency, along with enhanced refinement. New Electronic Precision Shift that replaces the conventional shifter with an electronic control that frees up interior room, including a more versatile center console with greater storage space. Enhanced GMC infotainment system that is more intelligent and intuitive, offering new features designed to help improve the user experience and offer more personalization. New Head-up Display (late availability). “With technological enhancements at your fingertips and under the hood, the 2020 Acadia is an intelligent crossover that elevates the driving and passenger experiences on all fronts,” said Aldred. “That makes it a smart choice all around.” Design and refinement At a glance, the ’20 Acadia distinguishes itself with a new grille, new front and rear fascias and GMC’s signature C-shaped lighting. An all-new Acadia AT4 expands the reach of GMC’s newest sub-brand. Its bold styling cues, including a black chrome-accented grille, add a rugged, off-road-inspired design to the Acadia range. A 3.6L V-6 engine producing 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque and a twin clutch AWD system are standard to the AT4. Unique 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires are also standard, with 20-inch wheels available. Additional design and refinement enhancements for the 2020 Acadia include: New 18- and 20-inch wheel designs depending on the trim. Outside mirrors with integrated LED turn signals (power-folding feature standard on Denali and available on SLT trim). Hands-free power liftgate with GMC logo projection standard on SLT, AT4 and Denali. Redesigned center console with enhanced storage space. Unique Denali interior color scheme with new, open-pore wood decor. Innovative engine technology A new 2.0L Turbo engine is standard on SLT and Denali models, expanding the Acadia’s propulsion choices for customers and adding a new dimension to its performance. It leverages GM’s innovative tripower valvetrain technology to vary valve lift across the rpm band, optimizing performance for varied driving demands: High valve lift for maximum power. Low valve lift for a greater balance of power and efficiency. Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) disables two of the cylinders in light load conditions to optimize efficiency. The tripower valvetrain complements the turbocharging system to make the most of the engine’s available power at all speeds. The turbo is a dual-scroll design developed to enhance low-speed torque delivery. Peak torque is available from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm, for an exceptional feeling of responsiveness. The engine is rated at a GMC-estimated 230 horsepower (172 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm). Both the proven 2.5L I-4 and the 3.6L V-6 engines remain standard or optional equipment for the 2020 Acadia dependent on trim level selected. All engine offerings feature a stop/start deactivation switch. New nine-speed automatic and Electronic Precision Shift A new nine-speed automatic replaces the previous six-speed automatic as the standard transmission for the 2.0L, 2.5L and 3.6L engines offered in the 2020 Acadia. The nine-speed’s additional clutches and gears offer better optimized acceleration and efficiency, and engine noise is reduced during cruising for greater refinement. The 2020 Acadia is the latest GMC with Electronic Precision Shift, which enables more storage room in the center console by replacing the conventional transmission shifter with an electronically controlled gear selection consisting of intuitive push buttons and pull triggers. New GMC infotainment system and additional technologies As connectivity continues to grow in importance for crossover customers, the 2020 Acadia delivers the latest GMC infotainment system that is more intelligent and more intuitive. It offers users improved voice recognition, a higher resolution touchscreen and a simplified interface that requires fewer steps for some tasks, along with simpler screen layouts inspired by the latest smartphone technology. This more user-friendly system, with an 8-inch-diagonal screen, also incorporates several new and enhanced features: Personal profile allows users to tailor the infotainment system to their preferences, including audio, available navigation (requires subscription to compatible Connected Services) and climate settings, and even transfer those preferences to another GM vehicle with a compatible infotainment system. Up to four profiles can be assigned to the system and they can be assigned to the Acadia’s key fobs, automatically resetting the preferences for the incoming driver. All-new Navigation2 interface with “one shot” destination entry feature, improved Route Guidance functionality and personalized settings. Connected Navigation3 offers real-time updates, as well as Predictive Navigation and additional information provided by a cloud database. (Feature requires a Connected Navigation trial or subscription and connectivity.) USB-C ports. Two new USB-C charging ports are integrated in the front and rear of the center console. That brings the number of ports in the Acadia to five, including a USB-A charging port for the third-row seating area. Additional new and enhanced technologies on the 2020 Acadia include: Next-generation, 15-watt wireless charging (available). High Definition Rear Vision Camera4 upgraded to digital (standard on SLT, AT4 or Denali and available on SLE). New Rear Camera Mirror4 available on Denali. eBoost brake system standard on models with the new 2.0L Turbo engine Suspension refinements that enhance ride and handling. The 2020 GMC Acadia goes on sale this fall, with production at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee, assembly plant. 2020 GMC ACADIA SPECIFICATIONS ENGINES Type: 2.0L Turbocharged I4 DOHC with direct injection and Active Fuel Management Bore & Stroke (in. / mm): 3.26 x 3.63 / 83 x 92.3 Block Material: Cast aluminum Cylinder Head Material: Cast aluminum Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder with tripower system Fuel Delivery: Direct injection with electronic throttle control Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 230 / 172 @ 5000 (GMC estimated) Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm): 258 / 350 @ 1500-4000 (GMC estimated) Type: 2.5L I-4 DOHC VVT with Direct Injection Bore & Stroke (in / mm): 3.46 x 3.97 / 88 x 101 Block Material: Lost foam cast aluminum Cylinder Head Material: Lost foam cast aluminum Valvetrain: DOHC iVLC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing Fuel Delivery: High-pressure direct injection and electronic throtle control Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 193 / 143 @ 6300 (SAE certified) Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm): 188 / 255 @ 4400 (SAE certified) Type: 3.6L V-6 DOHC VVT with Direct Injection Bore & Stroke (in / mm): 3.74 x 3.37 / 95 x 85.8 Block Material: Cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners Cylinder Head Material: Cast aluminum Valvetrain: Dual-overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, continuous variable valve timing Fuel Delivery: Direct, high-pressure fuel injection with electronic throttle control Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 310 / 231 @ 6600 (est.) Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm): 271 / 373 @ 5000 (est.) TRANSMISSION & AXLE Type: Hydra-Matic 9T65 nine-speed automatic Gear Ratios (:1) 9T65 First 4.69 Second 3.31 Third 3.01 Fourth 2.44 Fifth 1.92 Sixth 1.44 Seventh 1.00 Eighth 0.75 Ninth 0.62 Reverse 2.96 CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with direct-acting stabilizer bar; CDC real-time damping avail. on Denali Rear Suspension: Five-link independent; coil springs with stabilizer bar; CDC real-time damping avail. on Denali Steering Type: Electric variable-effort power steering with Active Return Assist Turning Circle (ft. / m): 38.7 / 11.8 Brake Type: Four-wheel-disc, variable brake system with power assist; Duralife brake rotors and low-drag brake calipers Brake Rotor Size (in / mm): Front: 12.6 x 1.9 / 321 x 30 Rear: 12.4 x 0.9 / 315 x 23 Wheel Size: 17-in. aluminum 18-in. aluminum 20-in. aluminum Tire Size: P245/65R17 all-season P255/65R17 all-terrain P235/65R18 all-season P235/55R20 all-season EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS Wheelbase (in. / mm): 112.5 / 2858 Overall Length (in. / mm): 193.6 / 4917 Overall Width (in. / mm): 75.4 / 1915 Overall Height (in. / mm): 66 / 1676 (w/o luggage rack) Track (in. mm): 64.5 / 1638 (front) 64.5 / 1638 (rear) Ground Clearance (in. / mm): 7.2 / 183 INTERIOR DIMENSIONS & CARGO VOLUME Headroom (in / mm): Front: 40.3 / 1024 (without sunroof) 2nd row: 39.6 / 1006 (without sunroof) 3rd row: 37.2 / 945 (without sunroof) Legroom (in. / mm): Front: 41 / 1041 2nd row: 39.7 / 1008 3rd row: 31.1 / 790 Shoulder Room (in. / mm): Front: 59.4 / 1509 2nd row: 58.7 / 1491 3rd row: 54.3 / 1379 Hip Room (in. / mm): Front: 55.7 / 1415 2nd row: 53.3 / 1354 3rd row: 42.9 / 1090 WEIGHTS, CAPACITIES & CARGO VOLUME Curb Weight(lb. / kg): 3956 / 1794 (2.5L – FWD) EPA passenger volume (cu. ft. / L): 143.8 / 4072 Cargo Volume Behind First Row (cu. ft. / L)^: 79 / 2237 Cargo VolumeBehind Second Row (cu. ft. / L)^: 41.7 / 1181 Cargo Volume Behind Third Row (cu. ft. / L)^: 12.8 / 362 Trailering Capacity lb. / kg)±: 4000 / 1814 (3.6L with trailering pkg.) 1000 / 454 (2.5L) TBD (2.0L) ^ Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. ±Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. FUEL TANK CAPACITY 19 gal. / 72 liters (FWD) 22 gal. / 83 liters (AWD)

Back in 2017, the NHTSA released a report on the safety of Tesla's Autopilot system after the fatal crash of a Tesla owner in 2016. That report claimed that the use of Autopilot, or more precisely the lane-keeping function called Autosteer, reduced crash rates by 40%. In that original crash, the owner repeatedly ignored warnings to resume manual control of the vehicle. Critics questioned whether Autopilot was encouraging drivers to pay less attention to the road. The NHTSA report appeared to put those concerns to rest. Later, when a second driver died in an Autopilot related accident, Tesla CEO Elon Musk pointed to the NHTSA study and the 40% increase in safety claim. Now, 2 years after the original report. According to a report by Arstechnica, a third party has analyzed the data and found the 40% claim to be bogus. Originally the NHTSA data on Autopilot crashes was not publically available when Quality Control Systems, a research and consulting firm, requested it under a Freedom of Information Act request. The NHTSA claimed the data from Tesla was confidential and would cause the company harm if released. QCS sued the NHTSA and in September of last year, a federal judge granted the FOI request. What QCS found was that missing data and poor math caused the NHTSA report to be grossly inaccurate. The period in question covered vehicle both before and after Autopilot was installed, however, a significant number of the vehicles in the data set provided by Telsa have large gaps between the last recorded mileage before Autopilot was installed and the first recorded mileage after installation. The result is a gray area where it is unknown if Autopilot was active or not. In spite of this deficiency, the NHTSA used the data anyway. In the data provided only 5,714 vehicles have no gap between the pre and post Autopilot mileage readings. When QCS ran calculations again, they found that crashes per mile actually increased 59% after Autopilot was installed. Does that mean that a Tesla using Autopilot makes a crash 59% more likely? The answer to that is no for a number of reasons. First is that the sample size QCS had to work with is a very small percentage of Tesla’s total sales. Secondly, the data is only representative of vehicles with version 1 of Tesla’s Autopilot, a version that Tesla hasn’t sold since 2016. Tesla stopped quoting the NHTSA report around May of 2018, possibly realizing something was fishy with the data. They have since taken to their own report stating that cars with Autopilot engaged have fewer accidents per mile than cars without it engaged. This has some statistical fishiness to it as well. Autopilot is only meant to be engaged on the highway and due to the higher rate of speed all vehicles have a lower rate of accidents per mile. We may just have to wait until more data is available to find out if Tesla Autopilot and systems similar to it make crashed that much less likely.