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2020 GMC Acadia Review: Reasonably Reliable Midsize SUV With Expensive Repair Costs

Rating: 4.76
Based on 75 Owner Reviews ▶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2020 GMC Acadia is a mid-size SUV, part of the second generation which launched in 2017. Its body style offers a blend of SUV practicality and car-like handling. Key trims include SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. The pricing range typically falls between $30,000 and $48,000 depending on trim and options. It's popular for its comfortable ride, available third-row seating, and upscale Denali trim.
The Good

The 2020 Acadia offers a comfortable ride and a stylish design, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, it boasts decent fuel efficiency with the 2.0L turbo engine and available all-wheel drive. Its spacious interior and available third-row seating make it a good value for families needing passenger and cargo space. Reliability is generally considered average for its class.

The Bad

Some owners report issues with the 9-speed transmission, including rough shifting. The third-row seating is cramped compared to some competitors. Infotainment system glitches have also been noted. Also, be aware of potential oil consumption issues, particularly in earlier model years of this generation Acadia. Overall cargo space isn't class-leading.

2020 GMC Acadia: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5L 4-cylinder: Around 193 hp
    • 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder: Around 230 hp
    • 3.6L V6: Around 310 hp
  • Horsepower: Ranges from 193 to 310 hp depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy:
    • 2.5L: Around 21 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
    • 2.0L Turbo: Around 21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway
    • 3.6L V6: Around 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway (FWD)
  • 0-60 Times: V6 models can achieve 0-60 mph in around 6.1 seconds. The 2.5L is significantly slower, while the 2.0L falls somewhere in between.
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 4,000 lbs with the V6 engine and proper equipment.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SLE: Standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and basic safety features.
    • SLT: Adds leather upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and more advanced safety features.
    • AT4: Designed for a more rugged look and includes all-wheel drive, unique exterior styling, and off-road-tuned suspension.
    • Denali: The top-of-the-line trim with premium leather, wood trim, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced technology features like adaptive cruise control.

2020 GMC Acadia Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2020
Make GMC
Model Acadia
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City SPRINGHILL
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 7000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 6
Engine & Performance
Engine LSY - SIDI, VVT, Aluminum VAR 3
Engine Size 2L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 9-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 9-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2020 GMC Acadia Have?

The 2020 GMC Acadia has faced some reported problems. A common concern involves the 9-speed automatic transmission, with some owners experiencing rough or delayed shifting. Another frequently cited issue pertains to the infotainment system, with reports of freezing, lagging, and connectivity problems. Oil consumption has been reported as a potential issue with the 3.6L V6 engine in this generation, though it's not always consistent across all vehicles.
Recalls for the 2020 Acadia have included issues related to improperly tightened seat belt bolts, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Check NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the most up-to-date recall information.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the electronic components and the transmission. The longevity of the 9-speed transmission is still being assessed, and it's crucial to maintain proper maintenance schedules. Owners should monitor fluid levels regularly, especially engine oil, and address any unusual noises or performance issues promptly. Early model years of this Acadia generation experienced some of the most frequent complaints, with improvements seemingly implemented over time, though problems persist to some degree in the 2020 model.

How long will the 2020 GMC Acadia last?

With proper maintenance, a 2020 GMC Acadia can realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-15 years of service. Adhering to scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, transmission services, and fluid checks, is crucial. Long-term durability can be affected by the transmission issues and potential oil consumption mentioned previously. The infotainment system may also exhibit signs of aging, such as decreased responsiveness. Regular inspections and proactive repairs will help maximize the vehicle's lifespan. Rust can also be a factor in northern climates.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2020 GMC Acadia comes with a decent suite of built-in tech. The standard infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, accessible through either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. Higher trims offer navigation and a premium Bose audio system.
Driver-assistance features include standard rearview camera and available features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control is available on higher trims such as the Denali.
Safety features include multiple airbags, stability control, and traction control. Optional features enhance safety further, such as surround vision and park assist.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) conduct crash tests. The 2020 Acadia generally scores well in these tests, but specific ratings can vary. Check their websites for the most accurate and up-to-date safety information, including scores for different crash scenarios (frontal, side, rollover, etc.) and which driver assistance features improve safety ratings.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Ebony Twilight Metallic
Satin Steel Metallic
Dark Sky Metallic
Smoked Quartz Metallic
Red Mahogany Metallic
Cayenne Red Tintcoat
White Frost Tricoat
Interior Colors
Jet Black
Cocoa/Light Ash Gray
Dark Galvanized/Light Shale

2020 GMC Acadia Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2020 GMC Acadia ranged from approximately $30,000 for the base SLE trim to around $48,000 for the fully-loaded Denali. Current used market prices vary based on mileage, condition, and trim, typically ranging from $20,000 to $35,000. The Acadia depreciates at an average rate for its class. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, service history, and trim level. Higher trims like the Denali often hold their value better than base trims. Color and location can also influence resale prices.

2020 GMC Acadia Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2020 GMC Acadia are average for its class. Fuel costs depend on the engine choice, with the 2.0L turbo offering the best efficiency. Maintenance is generally moderate, but potential transmission or engine (oil consumption) issues could lead to higher repair costs. Overall, the Acadia isn't the most economical vehicle to own, particularly if significant repairs are needed, but neither is it the most costly. Factor in potential repairs when budgeting for long-term ownership.

2020 GMC Acadia Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 24 gallons
City Mileage 19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 27 miles/gallon

2020 GMC Acadia Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2020 GMC Acadia Recalls & Defects

Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date 2020-10-29
Recall no. 20v668000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick Lacrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac Xt4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 Vehicles. THE Start/Stop Accumulator Endcap MAY Have Missing Bolts.
Consequence Missing Bolts ON THE Start-Stop Accumulator Endcap Could Result IN A Transmission OIL Leak and MAY Progress TO A Loss OF Propulsion, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. A Transmission Fluid Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Increase THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Start-Stop Transmission Accumulator and Replace IT IF ANY Bolts ARE Missing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 15, 2020. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer Service AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202313440.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window:curtain:inflator
Recall date 2020-07-30
Recall no. 20v446000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, Llc. (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5 and Xt6, Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500 and Traverse and GMC Acadia and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 Vehicles. THE Diffuser Component OF THE Roof-Rail AIR BAG (Rrab) Inflator MAY NOT Have Been Properly Crimped TO THE Inflator and Could Separate From THE Inflator During AIR BAG Deployment.
Consequence IF THE Diffuser Separates From THE Inflator During Deployment, Rrab Performance MAY BE Degraded, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Suspect Rrab Modules, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 3, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4223, or Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202305380.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2020-10-15
Recall no. 20v639000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac Xt5, Cadillac Xt6, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump's JET Nozzle MAY Have A Plastic Burr Remaining From THE Manufacturing Process, Possibly Causing A Blocked Nozzle and AN Insufficient Fuel Supply TO THE Engine.
Consequence Insufficient Fuel Supply CAN Result IN AN Engine Stall Without Warning, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module. THE Recall Began November 16, 2020. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer Service AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202314760.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Tires
Recall date 2020-11-05
Recall no. 20v684000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac Xt5, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500 Vehicles. THE Vehicles MAY Have Been Manufactured With Continental Tires That Were Overcured.
Consequence Overcured Tires MAY Experience A Carcass Break IN THE Sidewall Resulting IN A Sudden AIR Loss or Could Develop A Belt Edge Separation Which Could Lead TO Partial or Full Tread/Belt Loss. Either Condition Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect Vehicles and Replace Tires That Have DOT Number and Production Mold Number Combinations Identified BY Continental, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 17, 2020. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer Service AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202319030.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Tires
Recall date 2021-02-25
Recall no. 21v115000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac Xt4, Xt5, Escalade, Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and Certain Continental Tires Sold TO THE Aftermarket FOR Various Model Year 2018-2021 Vehicles. THE Affected Tires Were Cured FOR TOO Long During Production.
Consequence Over Cured Tires MAY Develop A Break IN THE Sidewall Resulting IN Sudden AIR Loss or A Belt Edge Separation Which Could Lead TO A Tread/Belt Loss. Either Condition CAN Cause A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Tires, Replacing Them AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 22, 2021. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer Service AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212329050.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
Recall date 2022-09-22
Recall no. 22v709000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2021 Cadillac Xt5, Xt6, and GMC Acadia Vehicles Equipped With THE Optional Surround Vision Feature. THE Rearview Camera Coaxial Cable Connectors MAY Have Been Crimped Improperly, Causing THE Rearview Camera TO Fail or Function Intermittently.
Consequence AN Inoperative Rearview Camera CAN Reduce THE Driver's Rear Visibility, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Coaxial Cables, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 18, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006 or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N222378380.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2020 GMC Acadia Insurance

Insurance for a 2020 GMC Acadia is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2020 GMC Acadia Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2020 GMC Acadia competes with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse. In terms of performance, the Explorer offers more powerful engine options, while the Highlander provides a smoother, more refined driving experience. The Acadia's features are generally competitive, but the Highlander and Pilot often have better standard safety features. Reliability is where the Acadia lags behind the Toyota and Honda, which consistently score higher in reliability surveys. The Traverse offers more cargo space and a lower price point.
The Acadia's price is generally in line with its competitors. Alternatives to the Acadia include the Toyota Highlander, known for its reliability and resale value; the Honda Pilot, offering a spacious interior and family-friendly features; and the Ford Explorer, which provides a more engaging driving experience and more potent engines. If reliability is a top priority, the Highlander or Pilot would be better choices. If maximum cargo space is needed, the Traverse is a better option. For a balance of features and price, the Acadia remains a reasonable contender, provided potential issues are considered.

Ranks #1246 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1246 2020 GMC Acadia (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2020 GMC Acadia a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2020 GMC Acadia is a decent choice for families needing a mid-size SUV with available third-row seating and a touch of luxury, particularly in the Denali trim. It's worth buying if you prioritize style and comfort over ultimate reliability or cargo space. A used 2020 Acadia can be a good value, but a thorough inspection is crucial, paying close attention to the transmission and potential oil consumption. Consider a lower mileage example with a good service history. If reliability is paramount, alternatives like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot might be better suited. Evaluate your needs and prioritize accordingly.

2020 GMC Acadia Owner Reviews

4.76
Consumer Rating, Based on 75 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Acadia husband on January 16, 2024

GMC Acadia good family or commuter car

Bought a demo car . The Acadia has been great . Wife’s car . She likes it . Roomy and good gas mileage . Would also make a great road trip vehicle if I didn’t have a full size Ram .

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mike on September 9, 2023

electrical problems

my 2020 Acadia at4 was driving down the interstate 70mph at 5pm to work got a bunch of fault signals on the dash windshield wipers turn on by themselves shooting water. and completely stopped in the middle of interstate with cars doing 70mph all around me before i could get involved in a fatal car accident i called 911 and they called a truck to drag me to the side of interstate so i had it towed to the gmc dealer missed work of course had to rent car. after 2 days they tell me there was a clog in the ac evacuation hose, so water started being. directed into the main body control module totally destroying it and with parts and labor it would be 1760.00 so with missed work rental car tow truck over 2400 total don't know what kind of designer would put the main body control module anywhere near were it could get wet if something happened purchased this SUV new wish i would have gone with Nissan as recommended by many people but got this one for looks i have never had to put this much money on a 3yr old car had a Hyundai before and after 6 yrs. only needed brakes and new battery.

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Benita on August 21, 2023

LOVE my Acadia SLT

I purchased the 2020 Acadia SLT new, I love my SUV, the ride is so smooth and the Bose system is killer, definitely a sharp looking SUV.One thing I would add is side interior cargo lights, the overhead light is not enough, other than that it's perfect and the dealership Delray Buick GMC those guys are awesome they take great care of my SUV.

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Ade on May 19, 2023

2020 Good but not Perfect

For the most part I am happy that I bought my 2020 GMC Acadia however I cannot believe they did not provide a locking gas door and there's no gas cap therefore my car is 100% exposed to people who might want to steal gas out of the car and I'd like to add they trim the back size there was no need to do that it would have provided much more room appreci ate it if the sides and the top went straight back instead of contoured aside from those two things again as I said before I'm very happy to own and drive my 20/20 GMC Acadia thank you.

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Redha Ahmed on January 20, 2023

Acadia denali review with my opinion about the car

It’s a wonderful car from all sides and i just have some notes regarding the headlights it’s not enough for this size and the engine sound not smooth I wish it was quieter than that

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Sycam_Steve on May 10, 2021

Perfect size for our family and garage

This car is the perfect size for our family of 4 and can accommodate 2 additional passengers if needed. Love all of the safety options and AWD. Had to park an Enclave at an angle to fit our smaller garage so this length is perfect. No issues and gets 20+mpg city 28 hwy.

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Smoky on April 20, 2021

Excellent performance

Plenty of cargo space with third seat which folds down. Performed well and was comfortable. Also, there is enough room for six adults when you need it.

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PAK45 on March 13, 2021

I've had better

Love the look. The ride, it has a nice ride but still a lot of wind noise. I've had 2 Mazda CX5 Grand Touring SUVs. As far as options and pluses go, the Mazda far outweighs the Acadia. The Acadia is bigger, nice. Again, ride is better. But the Acadia being at least $12k more, lacks what a more expensive car should have. Why don't the daytime running and fog lights stay on? You have to turn them on every time you start the car. Why do you always have to turn the seat heater and steering wheel heat on? If you have the key fob with you, you should be able to set your locks to automatically lock as you walk away. Rain sensing wipers should be a must. There are several other things that they fail to have for an SUV in this price range. Below the question is, if I would recommend the Acadia to a friend. I wish there was a maybe response instead of just yes or no. I can't really answer the question of reliability, that's the reason for the answer I gave. I've only had it for a little more than 3 months.

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Johnny on March 3, 2021

So far I love this car!

It’s roomy, and drives good too! I do not like the fact that it cuts off when you stop it every time! But I’m trying to get used to it! My first GMC, Thank you for y’all’s help!

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MAMAH21 on March 2, 2021

Great car!!!

I am so happy with my car!! It is everything I wanted and am so blessed to be able to enjoy it. I'm so thankful for MSA for making this purchase a reality for me and look forward to a long, happy relationship!

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.