Acadia is becoming one of the main models in the GMC fleet. The new generation boosted sales, so the 2017 year model reached 100,000 copies sold in the US. The close sibling of Chevy Traverse will suffer a refresh for the upcoming season. According to spy shots, the front of the mid-size SUV is taking the most changes. The refresh on the 2020 GMC Acadia includes interior modifications and Denali model update. A 3.6-liter V6 remains a more powerful option than a four-cylinder unit.
So far, we know the 2020 GMC Acadia will get a refresh. Besides that, we don’t know too much, at least from trusted sources. However, rumors are saying the GM is developing a hybrid engine. But, these stories don’t have a strong foundation, so experts are not taking them too seriously. So, we will focus more on the interior and exterior cosmetic changes and updates in the infotainment sector. Top of the class is again 2020 Acadia Denali SUV, while there will be five more trim levels to choose.

2020 GMC Acadia Changes, Spy Photos
When you see a vehicle with a huge cover panel, you can be sure that one is getting some serious changes. Test mules of the 2020 GMC Acadia are already out. As usual, spy photos are showing an SUV with tiny details visible through or over the camouflage. Well, sharp eyes of true Acadia’s fans noticed updates on the front fascia. There are the most covers, so we can predict some serious changes there.
We can spot the new design of the grille. Now, there are two horizontal bars splitting the mesh grille, and making three sections. Also, the entire front is boxier than before. This change leads to others. Headlights are now narrower, at least on the test mule we spied. Foglights are positioned lower than on the current vehicle. This makes the front fascia all-new for 2020 GMC Acadia.
The rear end will also get some updates. There are two types of spy photos – one where the entire SUV is covered by camouflage, and the other version where we can see the most of the body except the front and the rear fascia. We can’t spot details on the back as for the front, but panels are showing fans that they can expect big refresh.

Interior
Unfortunately, we couldn’t peak into the cabin of the 2020 GMC Acadia. However, do not expect big things inside, since the new generation brought a lot of changes. The mid-size SUV is modern, with the latest infotainment system. Huge touchscreen display dominates at the center of the dashboard. The new GMC Acadia will be able to take up to five passengers, and we heard that General Motors plans to enlarge it and make a seven-seater as a standard offer. Until then, it remains optional.
Depending on a trim level, we will see different equipment. Configurations that will be available for the 2020 GMC Acadia are the same as for 2019 season vehicle. An SL is the base configuration, two versions of SLE and SLT upgrade the offer with navigation, larger wheels, driver aid features, safety measures, and many more. Top of the class model is Denali.
2020 GMC Acadia Denali
The special suite of features for all GMC vehicles is Denali. This package makes them premium and special in every class. The 2020 GMC Acadia Denali adds parts such as unique 20-inch wheels or signature badge on the grille. Interior gets a leather treatment and more infotainment and safety equipment. Premium audio and navigation are standard for Acadia Denali. This version is not using a four-cylinder engine, and it comes exclusively with an AWD.
2020 GMC Acadia Engine Specs
Under the hood of the mid-size SUV is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. With 195 hp and 190 pound-feet of twist, it is not a weak drivetrain. However, it serves for the base models, so these could be cheaper. A V6 engine upgrade will cost you $1,700. An inline-four unit is paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. With this setup, the 2020 Acadia will be able to tow only 1,000 pounds.
If you need more serious numbers, wait for 2020 GMC Acadia 3.6 l V6 engine. First, its towing capacity is 4,000 pounds. Still not the class-leading number, but still a respectable capability. This unit also produces 310 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. Yes, its gas mileage drops, but just for 1 mpg on the highway. A V6 returns 18/25 mpg with 2WD, and four-pot mill 21/26 mpg. Of course, the new Acadia will also get an AWD as an optional configuration.

2020 GMC Acadia Release Date and Price
With spy shots already available, could we see the 2020 GMC Acadia soon? Well, the concept and a preview could happen at any of the upcoming big auto shows. But, the sales won’t start before the last quarter of 2019. The facelift is not going to affect the price too much. At least not for the base models. The new Acadia will cost less than $31,000. However, Denali upgrades could be more serious and expensive, so the new premium SUV could start nearly $50,000.