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The shooters at KGP Photography got some great, tack-sharp shots of a prototype for the ’17 GMC Acadia, providing a great look at the all-new version of the big crossover/SUV. The prototype is clearly the GMC variant, due to its squared-off wheel wells, along with a taped-over center cap on the front wheel that still manages to show GMC badging.
This next-generation GMC Acadia prototype is reportedly moving to GM's new Chi architecture, which is said to result in a slightly downsized crossover, more along the lines of the Nissan Pathfinder or Ford Explorer. This smaller footprint—which seems to be evident in these new spy shots—means that the Acadia will lose some of its status as a minivan alternative, and will become more of a traditional SUV/crossover alternative.
The new Chi architecture will also underpin the next Cadillac SRX, Chevy Traverse and Buick Enclave. The Chi architecture has provisions for standard- and long-wheelbase variants, so it is possible that the next Acadia and/or Traverse will be offered in two configurations—similar to the attack taken with the five- and seven-passenger Hyundai Santa Fe models.
Sources at AutoPacific say to expect engines to range from a direct-injected four-cylinder, the familiar 3.6L direct-injected V6, along with a new 2.7L turbocharged V6—all mated to the new nine-speed automatic co-developed with Ford.
This next Traverse is expected to reach the market sometime in 2016 as a ’17 model.
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Photo credit: KGP Photography