GMC made serious headway in the SUV space when it introduced the Acadia back in 2006. It continues to be a favorite family vehicle with its AWD and third-row seating capacity. But the reviews are starting to come out for the 2021 GMC Acadia model now, and the vibe might be a little different. Some are likening the look and feel of the Acadia to the minivan. And based on what consumers need in a crossover these days, minivan similarities may not be as bad as it sounds.

Crossovers and minivans are very different, right?

When it came to hauling around the large family or shuttling more than five guests, it used to be the minivan was the only available vehicle worth having. After all, nothing hauls hockey and soccer gear for the little ones quite like a van. And the push-button sliding doors, screens built-in for movies, and seat folding configurations that rival origami designs make the minivan the most practical ride out there.

But along came the bulky SUV and the middle of the road crossover varieties. All presented with similar equipment, but the SUVs just had the unique looks and style, along with more powertrain and off-road capabilities. If a vehicle were to marry the practical versatility of a minivan with the robust performance of an SUV, it would be the Acadia.

What you can expect from the 2021 GMC Acadia

The 2021 GMC Acadia is all SUV and won’t be mistaken as anything but capable and comfortable. You can expect to seat up to seven, without feeling like a tank on the road. Choose between a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, or a 3.6-liter V6. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but of course, the all-wheel drive is an option.

The AT4 is perfect for rugged life off-pavement. And all trim levels and variations will be priced to rival the Ford Explorer, Dodge Durango, and Honda Passport. But the plush and style will feel more like Lincoln Aviator or Acura MDX territory.

How the 2021 GMC Acadia may be almost like a minivan

Some of the critics are drawing comparisons of the newest Acadia to the grocery-getting and soccer-mom loving minivan. But it’s not all bad. The Acadia’s exterior style, for example, is less boxy behemoth like SUVs of old. It’s refined with rounded lines, and might even look more like a van. Some of the best features most notable for the popular minivans like the robust infotainment system are showing up in the Acadia. The entertainment options for the family-favorite vans are just as family-friendly in the Acadia. The available tech options are top-notch and among the favorite perks of the new Acadia.

Consumers want the best of both worlds

Consumers tend to want practical value with their vehicles these days. They want amenities and capabilities, without the hefty price tags. And as it seems, the 2021 GMC Acadia may just be the answer to bring the best of both minivan and SUV worlds. It has just enough family van practicality, with enough style and capability options to remind you you’re driving a sport utility vehicle. Get the AWD and venture off-road if you like. But know you can save at the pump with one of the more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines. It may harken the minivan, but at its core, it’s all crossover.

The sentiments all seem to be pointing in the same direction of the 2021 GMC Acadia. It may just be the vehicle that allows you to have your cake and eat it too. Sure, it may look or feel like a minivan sometimes, but that’s ok. It has plenty of SUV characteristics to differentiate itself.