It's hard not to judge the 2013 GMC Acadia by its grille. The new seven-passenger SUV sports new looks for the 2013 model year to better distinguish itself from the Chevy Traverse and Buick Enclave, but is the new Acadia's design really an improvement?
The 2013 GMC Acadia abandons the pulled-back front grille that characterizes the 2012 Acadia shown here. GMC's 2013 Acadia grille is more upright and far larger than before, giving it a more truck-like appearance even though the mechanicals haven't changed significantly. In Acadia Denali form (see the gallery below), the silver grille inserts now appear to have been designed around the red GMC badge.
Redesigned headlights feature LED daytime running lights that may help some potential buyers justify the GMC over the similar Chevy. We're not taken by the odd grille-like trim below the headlights, but appreciate the beefier wheel well flares.
The redone sheetmetal isn't as drastically changed in the rear of the 2013 GMC Acadia, where retouched taillights and bold exhaust outlet trim are the big changes.
Speaking of big changes, where the outgoing GMC Acadia needed the most help was inside. Comparing two Acadia Denalis, we can see a reimagined and brighter center stack, plus two central air vents instead of the three on the 2012 Acadia.
The new 2013 GMC Acadia and its in-your-face grille definitely fit in better with the boxy GMC Terrain's styling. What do you think: has GMC improved the crossover's design? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.