The 2025 GMC Acadia AT4 is a rugged and more affordable option than the GMC Yukon if you don’t need as much space. My week with this luxury SUV was more comfortable and adventurous than expected. This SUV punches above its weight in a few different areas.
3 ways 2025 GMC Acadia AT4 stands out
First of all, check out how attractive the 2025 GMC Acadia AT4 is with the black shade of Ebony Twilight Metallic paint and darkened accents. It’s sleek, elegant, and perfect for Batman. The red tow hooks and GMC Logo provide pops of color to hold your gaze.
Now for a few potential GMC Acadia drawbacks:
- It’s more expensive than the similar Chevrolet Traverse
- There’s no hybrid option to save fuel
- The infotainment system would benefit from more physical controls
- The steering is heavy and takes some getting used to
1. The GMC Acadia AT4 is capable
I was very impressed by how the 2025 GMC Acadia AT4 performed in the woods. I thought some of the slippery snow, ice, and thick mud would give it some trouble since some GMC vehicles have an available AT4X package.
But the AT4 has 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, an off-roading tuned suspension, an off-road-tuned AWD system, a steel front kid splay, and recovery hooks.
It feels well-planted and confident while off-roading with an even power distribution to prevent slipping and sliding. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine pumps out 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque.
It climbs inclines with plenty of torque and has a stout crawl control system for inclines. Snow and ice were no match for this beast on the pavement and deep in the woods. This SUV would be abused as a pavement princess. Let it play in the wild.
2. The Acadia is comfortable
Typically off-roading tires and other heavy off-roading equipment come at the price of comfort on the road. However, the 2025 GMC Acadia AT4 provides rugged upgrades without compromise.
It still has a smooth ride on the pavement as it quickly mitigates larger impacts. It’s so smooth over cracks and holes in the woods. Even in areas that have been decimated by Hurricane Helene, the Acadia comfortably soldiers on.
The seats are well-padded and supportive for hours of comfort. There are plenty of adjustment controls to find excellent riding and driving positions. The second-row seats are just as accommodating.
Best of all, the GMC Acadia is toasty. It’s been a frigid winter in the south east and I’ve never cared for a heated steering wheel and such until now. The Acadia quickly defrosts with fast-acting heated seats for precious warmth.
3. The Acadia is spacious
The 2025 GMC Acadia AT4 provides a surprising amount of passenger and cargo space. You can access 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 57 cubes behind the second row, and up to 98 cubes overall.
If you need more room, the Acadia can tow up to 5,000 lbs and there are available roof rails. Personal item storage is good with a cubby in front of the center console and a storage bin in the floor of the rear cargo hold.
My model was equipped with captain’s chairs in the second row. They automatically slide forward and back as needed. The third row has space for at least two passengers around 5’1” and under. Plus, it reclines for additional comfort.
Overall, the GMC Acadia AT4 is a capable and elegant beast that’s modern and comfortable for the entire family. It’s a well-rounded SUV for running errands, taking road trips, and getting off the grid.
