Does the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali Actually Reach Luxury SUV Levels?
The cream rises to the top giving you the best that you can hope for in a vehicle. That cream in the 2023 GMC Acadia lineup is the Denali trim. For several years, GMC has promoted this trim as the top model and one that reaches luxury levels of driving. Let’s see what’s offered and figure out whether or not the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali has enough qualities to call it a luxury SUV.
What do you find in the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali?
GMC puts this trim at the top of this midsize SUV and brings a high-quality drive to your experience. The Acadia comes standard with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and the option of the V6 model. Both powertrains allow for FWD or AWD functionality, but the Denali trim does not have the Active Torque System from the off-road-focused AT4 model.
If you’re looking for the foundational model for this GMC SUV, the SLT trim is where you go. The Denali includes features from the Preferred and Technology Packages as part of the standard fare for this top trim. This model of the Acadia also includes 20-inch aluminum wheels and heated second-row seats.
What do the SLT packages offer to make the Denali a better SUV for you to drive?
The SLT Preferred Package includes:
- 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
- Memory settings
- Power-folding auto-dimming outboard mirrors
- Heated power-adjustable steering wheel
- Ventilated front seats
While the Technology Package gives you:
- 8-inch driver-configurable information display
- Surround-view camera
- Â Head-up display
These items certainly increase the comfort and functionality of the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali.
Are there any extras available for this GMC SUV?
Yes, the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali can be had with the Denali Technology Package. This optional package brings you:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Digital rearview camera mirror
Add the Denali Ultimate Package to your SUV, and you’ll enjoy:
- A 2-panel panoramic sunroof
- Adaptive ride control (AWD models)
- A trailering package with hitch guidance
What are the powertrains of the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali?
This midsize SUV sits at the top of the GMC trims, and it brings you the choice of two powertrains. These powertrains are:
2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, 9-speed automatic transmission
228 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque
22 city/29 hwy mpg (FWD), 22 city/27 hwy mpg (AWD)
3.6-liter V6, 9-speed automatic transmission
310 horsepower, 271 lb-ft of torque
19 city/27 hwy mpg (FWD), 19 city/26 hwy mpg (AWD)
How much does this midsize SUV cost?
The Acadia trim starts at $49,450. Adding the upgraded powertrain or the features packages will significantly increase this SUV’s price. You could pay a little more than $60,000 for the Acadia Denali with everything offered.
Is this GMC SUV a luxury vehicle?
The 2023 GMC Acadia Denali is comfortable, packed with impressive features, and offers some impressive options. It certainly has some items that can put it ahead of luxury brands but it doesn’t have the best technology from GM, which might keep it out of consideration as a luxury SUV. Still, if you want a top trim level with a reasonable price and a long list of features, the Acadia Denali is an excellent choice.
Next, check out the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate, or watch the 2023 GMC Acadia Denali in the video below:
