by Michael Satterfield - Photos vis GMC - 12/20/2024
GMC has become one of the best brands for drivers looking for quiet luxury; the new 2025 Acadia Denali is no exception. Delivering a premium midsize SUV that seamlessly blends luxury, performance, and advanced technology. As the top-tier trim in the Acadia lineup, the Denali offers many features and enhancements that cater to discerning drivers seeking comfort and capability.
The 2025 Acadia Denali boasts a commanding presence on the road, characterized by its distinctive Denali-specific grille, chrome accents, and 22-inch wheels that enhance its upscale appearance. The redesigned front fascia, featuring a larger grille flanked by slimmer LED headlights, imparts a more aggressive and modern look. The vehicle's increased dimensions—42 centimeters longer and 8 centimeters taller than its predecessor—contribute to a more substantial road presence and translate to increased interior space.
Inside, the Acadia Denali offers a luxurious cabin adorned with high-quality materials, including quilted door surfaces and wood trim. The spacious interior accommodates up to seven passengers with standard second-row captain's chairs and a three-person third-row bench. The increased dimensions provide ample legroom, particularly benefiting third-row occupants. Cargo capacity is generous, offering 23 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 97.5 cubic feet with both rear rows down, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot.
Under the hood, the 2025 Acadia Denali is equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers robust performance that is suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The Denali's suspension is tuned for a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections. While the engine provides ample power, some drivers have noted that it can sound strained under heavy acceleration. This won't be your tow vehicle; while it is rated at 5,000 lbs towing capacity, you don't want to tow anything other than a small Airstream, and I would avoid the mountains.
The Acadia Denali is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. A prominent 15-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen serves as the central hub, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument cluster. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Google built-in apps providing seamless smartphone integration. Available features include a 16-speaker Bose audio system and GM's Super Cruise. This hands-free driving assistance system operates on approved highways, offering a glimpse into the future of autonomous driving.
The Acadia Denali comes standard with a comprehensive array of driver assistance features. These include automatic emergency braking, rear pedestrian detection, front pedestrian and bicycle braking, rear cross-traffic braking, blind zone steering assist, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The availability of Super Cruise further enhances safety by allowing for hands-free driving in certain conditions, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.
The 2025 Acadia Denali offers competitive fuel efficiency for its class. Front-wheel-drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive variants are rated at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. These figures align with segment averages, balancing performance with economy.
As the flagship trim, the Acadia Denali starts at approximately $55,900 for the all-wheel-drive model. While this positions it at the higher end of the midsize SUV segment, the Denali justifies its price with a comprehensive list of standard features, premium materials, and advanced technologies that cater to buyers seeking a luxury experience without venturing into the luxury brand territory.
In the competitive midsize SUV market, the Acadia Denali faces rivals such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Honda Pilot. While these competitors offer their own strengths, the Acadia Denali distinguishes itself with its upscale interior, advanced technology offerings like Super Cruise, and the quality associated with the Denali nameplate.
The 2025 GMC Acadia Denali successfully combines luxury, performance, and practicality in a well-rounded midsize SUV package. Its spacious and comfortable interior, coupled with a robust powertrain and advanced technology features, make it a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a premium driving experience. While it comes at a higher price point, the extensive list of standard features and the Denali's reputation for quality and refinement offer substantial value for those willing to invest in a top-tier vehicle.
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