Drew Dowdell

For the last decade or so, Buick has relied on imported designs and vehicles to fill out its product portfolio. Largely that came in the form of designs by GM's European subsidiary, Opel. The Buick Verano, Regal, Encore, and Cascada all started life as Opel products subsequently modified for North American tastes and branding. Now with the Opel sold to PSA, Buick's product focus is going to turn towards Chinese tastes. With the pending end of production for the Buick Lacrosse and the cancellation of the Buick Cascada, it leaves Buick with a light product porfolio of just one 4-door hatch, one wagon, and 3 crossovers. According to a report by Automotive News, Buick is looking to draw on Chinese models, but not necessarily import them like Buick does with the Buick Envision. China is Buick's, and GM's, largest market. One area that Buick can draw on is in the electric vehicle segment. While it would be difficult to justify the cost of an EV for Buick just for the North American market, it is absolutely essential that Buick sell EVs in China in order to meet local regulations. Such a vehicle built for China could be shared with the U.S. Buick executives are unconcerned with Buick's shrinking car lineup. The spread has shifted from 33% SUVs in 2011 to 84% in 2018. So what happens if Buick becomes an all SUV brand? Does that step on the toes of GMC where Buick shares showroom space? Buick executives are not concerned. They insist that GMC has a more rugged and "crafted" look while Buick is more elegant and "quiet luxury". What do you think of Buick's shift from European sourced designs to Chinese ones? Sound off below. *2018 Buick Enspire EV SUV concept shown above View full article

Post pics of your other Hobbies besides cars. Me, I love to bake. Specifically I love making bread, but I also like cakes and cookies and pies. For the past week I've been working on a sour dough starter so I can make sour dough bread and sour dough English muffins. These just came out of the oven and smell great!

So, if everyone's tax refunds are so low this year, what's going to happen to consumer spending when people can't afford those "tax refund specials" you see advertised for furniture and cars? Will we see a slump come April and May?

A 396 with an extra turbofan in the back?

When Ford decided to pull the plug in the U.S. on all of its cars except the Mustang, it meant that the U.S. will miss out on a lot of the goodness that European markets get from the Blue Oval. Today, more evidence of that was released in the form the the updated Ford Focus ST. The 2019 Focus ST gains a 2.3-liter turbo 4-cylinder, replacing the 2.0T previously offered. This motor is the same basic unit found in the Focus RS and Mustang. The motor bumps power up to 276 HP and 310 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 24 hp and 40 lb-ft of torque over the previous car. Running from 0-62 mph (100 kph) takes under 6 seconds. Diesel buyers can opt for a 2.0T diesel Focus ST rated for 187 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can choose between a 6-speed manual or an additional cost 7-speed automatic. Power is sent solely to the front wheels through an electronic limited-slip differential. Selectable drive modes are available with Normal, Sport, and Slippery-Wet. For manual drivers, there is a Performance pack which includes an additional Track mode plus launch control system, red brake calipers, and rev-matching. The Ford Focus ST will be available in hatch or wagon version and goes on sale this summer. See page 2 for the full Ford Press Release All-New Ford Focus ST Blends Track-Day Performance, B-road Fun and Everyday Usability Without Compromise Ford Performance-developed all-new Focus ST enhanced with advanced sports technologies will go on sale in the summer in five-door and wagon body styles Powerful, free-revving powertrains include 280 PS, 420 Nm, 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol with twin-scroll turbo and anti-lag; 190 PS 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel with 400 Nm from 2,000 rpm First Ford front-wheel drive electronic limited-slip differential improves traction and stability. Rev-matching offered for short-shift six-speed manual gearbox. Seven-speed auto available Selectable Drive Modes a first for Focus ST, adjusting features including Electronic Brake Booster and fastest Ford electric power-assisted steering to match performance to scenario Comfort and driving experience optimised with Recaro sports seats and advanced independent rear suspension configuration with available Continuously Controlled Damping COLOGNE, Germany, Feb. 18, 2019 – Ford today revealed the all-new Focus ST – developed by Ford Performance to deliver nimble hot-hatchback thrills in a stylish, comfortable and practical family car. The all-new Focus ST builds on the class-leading driving dynamics of the fourth generation Focus in five-door and wagon body styles. Ford’s new C2 architecture is enhanced with unique suspension, braking and powertrain configurations for the most responsive and agile Focus ST driving experience ever – on road and track. A new engine line-up makes available to drivers up to 12 per cent more power and 17 per cent more torque compared with the previous generation Focus ST. Ford’s 280 PS 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol and 190 PS 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engines* both deliver a broad spread of power and torque across the rev-range, for fast-revving sports performance. Ford’s first application of an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) for a front-wheel drive vehicle further enhances as standard the cornering and stability of the EcoBoost-powered variant – sharpening responses to changing grip levels and driver inputs using computer-controlled pre-emptive actuation. A choice of six-speed manual or quick-shifting new seven-speed automatic transmissions is offered, and Selectable Drive Modes technology is introduced to the Focus ST for the first time, enabling drivers to adjust the vehicle’s character to suit the driving scenario. Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) – standard for five-door EcoBoost variants – enhances the short long arm (SLA) independent rear suspension configuration for ultimate refinement. “Intelligent technologies like eLSD and CCD make our all-new Focus ST the most ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ yet, able to switch from refined tourer to focussed performance car at the push of a button,” said Leo Roeks, Ford Performance director, Europe. “We’ve incorporated learnings from programmes including our Ford GT supercar and the acclaimed Focus RS to develop a mid-size performance car with a degree of flexibility that’s unique in its segment.” The all-new Focus ST will be manufactured with best-ever craftsmanship and quality following a €600 million investment at Ford’s Saarlouis assembly facility, Germany. Responsive power delivery A new generation of Ford’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost all-aluminium engine is the most powerful ever offered for a Focus ST. Using advanced turbocharging technology to deliver 280 PS power at 5,500 rpm and 420 Nm of torque from 3,000 rpm to 4,000 rpm, it is also the most free-revving Focus ST engine ever, and supports anticipated 0‑100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in less than 6 seconds. Engine response is enhanced using a low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger, which scavenges exhaust gas energy more effectively using separated channels to minimise interference between gas pulses. An electronically actuated waste-gate allows closer control of boost pressures for optimised engine performance. In addition, a unique exhaust system that reduces back pressure, bespoke air intake system and optimised intercooler further improve breathing. Innovative anti-lag technology developed for the Ford GT supercar and F-150 Raptor pick-up is introduced to the Focus ST, for immediate power delivery in Sport and Track Drive Modes. Anti‑lag keeps the throttle open when the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal, alleviating the reversal of air flow from the turbocharger to maintain compressor wheel speed and enabling boost pressure to build faster on demand. Ford’s 190 PS 2.0-litre EcoBlue is the most powerful diesel engine ever offered for a Ford Focus model, delivering peak power at 3,500 rpm and 400 Nm of torque between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm – and 360 Nm from 1,500 rpm – for immediate and linear acceleration. A low-inertia variable geometry turbocharger; steel pistons for less expansion when hot; and an integrated intake system with innovative mirror-image porting for optimised combustion help to deliver a diesel powertrain that produces 10 per cent more power and more than twice as much torque as the 2.0‑litre Duratec ST petrol engine in the first generation Focus ST. The Focus ST’s six-speed manual transmission enables more urgent gear-changes and provides a sportier feel with a shift-throw reduction of 7 per cent compared with the standard all-new Focus. Ford’s new rev-matching technology that debuted on the new Ford Mustang is also introduced as part of an optional Performance Pack for 2.3-litre EcoBoost manual models. Delivering smoother, faster downshifts, the technology is accompanied by a shift indicator light, and uses the engine’s electronic control system to briefly “blip” the throttle as the driver engages a lower gear – matching the engine rotation speed to that of the gear that is being selected. Rev-matching enables less-experienced performance drivers to benefit from the seamless, momentum-maintaining gearshifts delivered by the “heel-and-toe” driving technique, while also enabling experienced performance drivers to deactivate the system if they prefer. A new seven-speed variant of Ford’s latest intelligent automatic transmission family complements the rewarding, engaging and sporty 2.3-litre EcoBoost driving experience. Gear differentiation is optimised for performance, and Adaptive Shift Scheduling – which assesses individual driving styles to optimise gearshift timings – is enhanced to offer more flexibility and the ability to differentiate between road and track use. Drivers can select gears manually using steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters. “The EcoBoost petrol and EcoBlue diesel powertrains have unique characters, but are equally charismatic,” Roeks said. “The Focus ST’s sporty ‘pops and bangs’ soundtrack perfectly matches the car’s feisty performance and is an essential part of the ST experience.” Intuitive dynamics enhanced with technology Building on accomplished Ford Focus driving dynamics, the new Focus ST was developed to blend B-road fun-to-drive, legitimate track-day performance, and everyday usability better than any vehicle in its class. The SLA suspension configuration helps optimise the vehicle’s responses to driver inputs without sacrificing comfort, and includes a unique geometry for wagon models that repositions the dampers helping the vehicle remain nimble and responsive even when fully loaded. The agile and energetic character of the standard Focus is retained using the original spring specifications, with damping stiffness increased up to 20 per cent at the front and 13 per cent at the rear, and ride height reduced by 10 mm, to improve road-holding and response in performance driving scenarios. Ford’s sophisticated CCD technology every 2 milliseconds monitors suspension, body, steering and braking inputs to adjust damping responses for outstanding ride quality and driving dynamics. The driving experience is further enhanced using eLSD technology for Focus ST 2.3 litre EcoBoost models. Incorporated into the transmission, the system uses hydraulically activated clutches to limit the engine torque delivered to a wheel that has reduced traction on the road surface, and redistributes up to 100 per cent of available torque to the wheel with more traction to counteract wheelspin that can hamper acceleration through, and out of, corners. The Borg Warner-developed technology is faster to deploy and offers greater precision than a traditional mechanical LSD. The system can pre-emptively adjust torque distribution using inputs from powertrain and vehicle dynamics sensors, rather than responding to wheelspin as it occurs, and can apply differential locking gradually for fine-tuning performance. Focus ST 2.0-litre EcoBlue models feature Torque Vectoring Control technology, which improves road holding and reduces understeer by applying brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering. The all-new Focus ST steals Ford’s fastest-steering-response crown from the acclaimed Fiesta ST. The electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system is 15 per cent faster than the standard Focus, requiring just two turns lock-to-lock. Class-leading connected feel is supported by unique steering knuckle geometry, with a rod attachment point 9 mm further forward and 6.5 mm higher than the standard Focus for sharper responses. New Steering Torque Disturbance Reduction software for EPAS also helps reduce torque steer, making it even easier to deploy with precision the Focus ST’s power and torque via bespoke-specification Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. Larger front and rear brake components provide the foundation for a high performance braking system with improved stopping power and fade resistance. Front disc dimensions have grown to 330 mm x 27 mm and feature dual-piston callipers. Rear discs now measure 302 mm x 11 mm. Focus ST braking performance was verified using the same demanding test procedures as the Ford GT supercar, and achieved almost four-times the fade resistance performance of the previous generation Focus ST in testing. The C2 architecture’s Electric Brake Booster (EBB) further demonstrates its advantages in the Focus ST application. The technology builds brake pressure faster than a hydraulic system for a more connected, confident and consistent pedal feel across a broader range of operating conditions. For the Focus ST, this means the system can both mitigate for changes in braking behaviour experienced during high performance driving, and can adjust the braking feel and dynamics to match the selected Drive Mode. In addition, Slippery/Wet, Normal, Sport and – for models equipped with the Performance Pack – Track Drive Modes adjust eLSD, CCD, EPAS, throttle mapping, automatic transmission shift scheduling, electronic stability control, electronic sound enhancement (ESE) and climate settings to suit the driving scenario. A dedicated “Sport” button on the flat-bottomed steering wheel gives direct access to Sport mode, and an additional “Mode” button allows drivers to quickly scroll through the Drive Mode options. “Selecting Track mode instantly makes braking response more direct and edgy; introduces higher steering efforts for more feedback; tunes the throttle to be more aggressive; instructs the eLSD to deliver maximum traction; and gives drivers more leeway within the ESC system,” said David Put, Ford Performance vehicle dynamics. “Drivers can have full confidence in the Focus ST’s ability to deliver on the track.” The traditional Focus ST gauge cluster benefits from a contemporary execution inspired by the Ford GT supercar. Digital turbocharger boost pressure, oil pressure and oil temperature gauges are now displayed in a bespoke Ford Performance screen on the 4.2-inch, TFT colour instrument display. Launch Control for consistently fast standing starts on track is also delivered via the Performance Pack for 2.3-litre EcoBoost models. Developed for form and function Developed to be as comfortable as it is fun-to-drive, the all-new Focus ST exploits the class-leading roominess and exceptional refinement of the standard Focus range, and features an upscale interior that balances everyday practicality and a true sporty driving experience. Ford Performance engineers fine-tuned the positioning of supportive Recaro front seats to complement the connected and in-control feel for the driver, while ESE technology amplifies genuine engine and exhaust noise in Sport and Track modes – heightening the sports driving sensation and delivering additional feedback to assist performance drivers. Tuned engine mounts and an isolated subframe – alongside available CCD technology – increase refinement for all occupants. Generous front shoulder room and best-in-class rear knee clearance combine with maximum 1,653-litre wagon luggage capacity and a boot space that can comfortably accommodate a large dog crate, for maximum comfort and practicality. In addition to the sports steering wheel and Ebony coloured Recaro seats with a choice of high-quality cloth, leather, or partial leather and Miko Dinamica materials, the unique Focus ST interior intensifies the sporty atmosphere with an ST-embossed aluminium gear knob and scuff plates; alloy pedals; metallic hexagonal and satin silver decorative elements; and metal grey stitching for the seats, door inserts and centre console soft side pads. The Focus ST builds on the premium, sporting Focus silhouette with subtle, functional styling changes and unique alloy wheel designs. Revised upper and lower front grille designs are optimised for increased cooling capability, and bold signature lower wing elements channel air in to the air-curtain inlets for improved aerodynamic performance. A larger, more steeply angled rear roof spoiler increases downforce to support the Focus ST’s driving dynamics. A twin exit tailpipe configuration borders the aggressively styled rear diffuser element, and improves practicality by delivering the towing capability that was prevented by the centre-exit tailpipes of the previous generation Focus ST. The Performance Pack also adds red brake callipers. Exterior colour options chosen to emphasise the Focus ST’s dynamic styling include exclusive Ford Performance Blue and Orange Fury, alongside Frozen White, Magnetic grey, Race Red, Ruby Red and Shadow Black. Bold alloy wheel options include 18-inch Dark Sparkle and Magnetite designs, with a 19-inch wheel also offered in Magnetite. The Focus ST also benefits from the comprehensive range of sophisticated Ford driver assistance technologies that have helped the all-new Focus win 13 awards and a 5-star safety rating since going on sale in 2018. Seamlessly integrated technologies that enable an intuitive, stress-reducing and refined driving experience include: Adaptive Cruise Control now enhanced with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring for effortlessly negotiating stop-start traffic Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System with new camera-based predictive curve light and sign-based light that pre-adjust headlamp patterns for improved visibility by monitoring bends in the road and – for the first time in the industry – road signs Active Park Assist 2 that operates gear selection, acceleration and braking in addition to steering, to enable fully-automated manoeuvres at the push of a button Ford’s first Head-up display to be offered in Europe, helping drivers focus their attention on the road ahead Evasive Steering Assist, a segment-first technology that helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions Ford’s SYNC 3 connectivity system allows drivers to control audio, navigation and climate functions plus connected smartphones using simple voice commands supported by an 8-inch colour touchscreen. The system provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility free of charge, and available FordPass Connect embedded modem technology turns the vehicle into a mobile WiFi hotspot with connectivity for up to 10 devices “Our target was to deliver an all-new Focus ST that is as effortless to drive day-to-day as the rest of the Focus line-up,” Roeks said. “The model’s comprehensive range of technologies means customers gain exhilarating ST performance without sacrifice.” The all-new Focus ST will go on sale across Europe in summer 2019. View full article

The UK never was on the Euro... they always remained with Pounds Sterling.

eh. I don't think it would do anything to increase sales. Explorer Sports aren't a huge slice of the Explorer sales pie. I would expect it to be even less so for a 3.0TT in an Acadia.

That's a bit excessive for one of these... no?

Sky News is reporting that Honda is preparing announce as early as tomorrow the closure of its only EU manufacturing facility in Swindon UK. The plant currently produces over 100,000 Honda Civics and directly employs 3,500 workers. The plant has been in operation since 1985. If confirmed, the plant would close in 2022 and have drastic consequence for downstream suppliers. This move would be a sudden change of direction for Honda which recently insisted that the UK was a key part of their automobile manufacturing plans. The possibility of a no-deal Brexit likely hastened the decision to close the plant. The Japanese government has negotiated a trade deal with the EU that went into effect on February 1, 2019 that would allow Honda to import vehicles from Japan to the EU tariff free. The news comes just as Jaguar-Land Rover plans to cut 4,500 jobs and Nissan shelves plans to build new models in the UK. View full article

Hard to find unless you live on the west coast.

In my eternal shopping quest, the JGC keeps bubbling to the top of the list no matter what else comes out.

The EPA has released the estimated range rating for the 2020 Kia Soul EV and the results look good. With its 64 kWh battery, the Kia Soul EV should be able to travel 243 miles on a single charge. That's down 15 miles from the more aerodynamic Hyundai Kona EV with the same battery and up 4 miles from the slightly larger and heavier Kia Niro EV. It also manages to beat the Bolt EV with its 60 kWh battery and the Nissan Leaf E+ with its 62 kWh battery. Most importantly, it handily beats the 111 mile range the 2019 Kia Soul Electric was capable of. The Soul EV is capable of using DC fast charging to get to 80% charge in as little as an hour. Level 2 charging from empty will take 9 hours, while charging on a standard household plug will take 59 hours from zero. Buyers of the Kia Soul EV will want a Level 2 charger at their house. The Soul EV packs an electric motor rated for 201 HP and 291 lb-ft of torque, a substantial upgrade from the prior model's 109/210 respectively. While we don't have pricing yet, we do know that the Soul EV will be a limited release model, selling mostly to drivers in California. Related: 2020 KIA SOUL KEEPS THE FUNK FIRST IMPRESSIONS: 2020 KIA SOUL View full article

My point was that I don't see what makes the Blazer any more sporty driving than the Acadia.... it's not going to be the Camaro styling cues that make it corner better.

I am too. Especially their interiors. SCCA cars can be safe too.

With the 9-speed, the 310hp will be plenty for Molly McRealestateagent. Even with the 6-speed, these felt fast. I agree with you about the XT5 and XT6 though, those need at least the 3.0TT from the CT6 as an optional engine.

But @Cmicasa the Great, GM is on record that they are trying to cut back on incentives. Anyway, I went to the Pittsburgh auto show over the weekend. I sat in all of the 2-row and smaller 3-row crossovers. The GC has the nicest interior of them by far, but the Blazer is pretty close. Where the Blazer falls short is interior space for the price. It doesn't feel much bigger than the old Equinox.. maybe slightly wider. If I'm looking for room, I can pick just about anything else, but most drastically I can get into a V6 powered Durango for about the same price. If I'm looking for off-road capability, there's the GC. If I'm looking for sportiness, there's the Edge. And I still haven't seen anything that tells me this drives any different than an Acadia.

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) View full article