The Good
The 2018 GMC Acadia offers a comfortable ride and stylish design, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, it provides three-row seating and decent fuel efficiency for its size. While not a performance leader, its engine options offer adequate power for daily driving. Its reliability is generally considered average, and it presents good value in the mid-size SUV segment.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2018 GMC Acadia include its smaller third-row seat compared to some competitors, which can be cramped for adults. The nine-speed automatic transmission (later models) had some initial reported issues. Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system and electrical components. Be sure to check for any transmission issues during a test drive.
2018 GMC Acadia: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2018 GMC Acadia:
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-4: Standard on lower trims.
- 3.6L V6: Available on most trims, standard on Denali.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L Inline-4: 193 hp
- 3.6L V6: 310 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5L Inline-4 (FWD): 21 City / 26 Hwy MPG
- 3.6L V6 (FWD): 18 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- 3.6L V6 (AWD): 17 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L Inline-4: Around 9 seconds.
- 3.6L V6: Around 6.1-6.6 seconds.
- Towing Capacity:
- 2.5L Inline-4: Not recommended for towing.
- 3.6L V6: Up to 4,000 lbs with proper equipment.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SL: Base model with cloth seats, rearview camera, and 7-inch infotainment screen.
- SLE: Adds features like heated mirrors, available leather seats, and available driver-assistance features.
- SLT: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, power liftgate, and more advanced safety features.
- Denali: Top-of-the-line trim with unique styling, premium leather, heated and ventilated front seats, navigation, and advanced safety technologies.
2018 GMC Acadia Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Acadia |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SPRINGHILL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LGX - Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing, Aluminum GEN 2 |
| Engine Size | 6.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 GMC Acadia Have?
Recalls for the 2018 Acadia have included issues related to the rearview camera image not displaying correctly and potential fuel pump failures. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the transmission and the potential for electrical component failures. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate these concerns. Some earlier model years of this generation Acadia (2017) also had reports of similar issues, suggesting that these are recurring concerns within the model line.
How long will the 2018 GMC Acadia last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features vary by trim. Available options include forward collision alert, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features enhance safety and driver awareness.
Standard safety features include a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags. Higher trims offer enhanced safety features like surround vision and automatic emergency braking.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally award the 2018 Acadia with a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings vary, with Good ratings in several crashworthiness categories. It is always best to verify the specific ratings for the build date of interest, as changes can occur during the model year.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 GMC Acadia Prices and Market Value
2018 GMC Acadia Cost of Ownership
2018 GMC Acadia Fuel Efficiency
2018 GMC Acadia Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 GMC Acadia Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
2018 GMC Acadia Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 GMC Acadia Compare to Other Wagon?
Price-wise, the Acadia is generally in line with its competitors, although the Traverse (its corporate cousin) can sometimes be found at a lower price point. The Highlander and Pilot often command a slight premium due to their reputation for reliability.
Alternatives to the Acadia include:
- **Toyota Highlander:** A strong choice for reliability and resale value.
- **Honda Pilot:** Offers a spacious interior and good driving dynamics.
- **Chevrolet Traverse:** Provides a larger cargo area and a more budget-friendly option.
If reliability is a top priority, the Highlander or Pilot might be better choices. If cargo space is crucial, the Traverse is worth considering. The Acadia is a good option if you prioritize styling and a slightly more compact feel than some of its rivals.
Ranks #1334 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★) |
| 1334 | 2018 GMC Acadia | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 GMC Acadia a Good Wagon?
Robert W. on February 5, 2024
Fell in Love! Now broken hearted...ðŸ’â€Bought the used 2018 GMC Acadia SLE with the 3.6L V6 engine with just under 37,000 miles on the odometer. Made the puchase of the vehicle in April of 2021. Few months later while on a trip to Florida the engine light came on. Had it checked and found an engine timing belt warning. We have had this problem happen every time the brakes are applied with force and back on the gas pedal. The engine light goes off after 24 hours. Weird! During that same trip we went through a heavy rain storm and while looking into the rear view mirror I noticed water leaking from the top of the rear hatch door. Whenever it rains hard it leaks. WTH! While having an oil change done my mechanic suggested new brake pads. I just had them replace all the pads and rotors for good measure. $1400.00. Then sometime in summer of 2022 the shift to park warning started. July 2022 the battery needed replaced. New Battery cost $180.00. Late September 2022 with 65,500 miles the transmission started hesitating & clunking when shifting to 2nd gear. After spending $4600.00 to rebuild the Transmission. After the rebuild the shift to park warning still happens off and on. While changing the oil the bolt had gotten so badly stripped I had to replace it. Only $5.00 but after only 2 oil changes it's starting to be stripped again. Early 2023 the Center computer console electronics started going wacko. It constantly switches to different modes without touching the screen. December 2023 the air conditioner quit working, the temperature gauge stopped working and the Engine light came on. After finding the codes that explain the thermostat has failed. I had a 1989 GMC Sierra 1/2 ton and though it needed some repairs it lasted 30 years. I tried to make sure the mechanical things were always done. With today's trucks and SUV's and reading all the problems other GM owners are experiencing, I'm convinced that GM makes crap vehicles now. I will never buy another GM vehicle. I still owe $18,000 on this piece of crap and now I have to find a way to trade it off before it costs me more money. 🖕GM
LynneV on January 4, 2024
Bad Shifter & Transmission from the startMy 2018 Acadia has issues with the shifter the first year I had it. It was replaced three times. That eventually lead into needing a new trans in 2023 with only 58k miles. There have been a few other little fixes here and there but for the price of the Denali, I expected a lot more.
Michael on December 19, 2023
2018 gmc a Acadia Denali shifting issuesI just purchased my 2018 GMC Acadia Denali from a dealer and already having shifting issues in the transmission. It has a delay in shifting and feels like a rough shudder when shifting from 2nd into 3rd gears. Other times it shifts smooth, most of the time it shifts rough. What gives???? There’s been other complaints on this same issue so why is there NOT a recall for this?! I can’t believe I blew my money on this crap. Highly disappointed now I’m stuck with a car I have to wait and expect to break down and can’t drive comfortably.
AcadiaNOPE on May 18, 2023
Not all its cracked up to beI bought a used 2018 Acadia, 52,000 miles. Thermostat and rear main seal have gone out. Now my touch screen is all messed up. Driving down the highway and the CLOCK shows up on the screen, touch screen won't acknowledge I am touching it. But steering wheel controls still work. The back lift gate takes 10 seconds to open sometimes, other times it opens immediately. Rear lift gate also pours in water if in a car wash, or heavy dew. I would never recommend an acadia(or maybe it is the dealership selling a lemon?)
Mary Baker on January 8, 2023
GMC 2018 AcadiaI love my 2018 GMC Acadia just wished windows were tinted and had a tv for kids and grandkids overall I have had this truck for 2 years and I Love it and use it for family drives cuz of how much room it has I have even used it for work meetings and we all travel to the meeting together .
Am a truck driver on December 21, 2022
Oil pan issues with my AcadiaI just purchased a 2018 Acadia and I’ve been having oil pan issues. I took it back to open road in New Jersey where I purchased it for a high price repair and am still having issues
Patty Nami on November 25, 2022
GMC safety in accidentI have driven GMC SUVs for many years..my current 2018 GMC XLT has been my favorite....comfort and drivability unsurpassed..today my husband and I were in a serious accident, rear ended at fairly high speed...the back end was pushed in all the way to rear seat...we were not hurt and are so grateful to GMC. The sheriff staff there and the wrecker driver both stated we were very fortunate to have been driving the Acadia..it absorbed the wreck so well. I had just said this past week how much I loved driving this car and how pretty I still thought it was. Hopefully I will be able to get in a new Acadia. Thank you GMC for providing a truly safe vehicle.
Jerrilee Strain on March 13, 2022
Major repair issuesIt ha s had several problems with the gears and now the temperature it’s a 2018 and it does not have a lot of miles on it!
Rhode Island Consumer on April 24, 2021
New GMC Arcadia (Denali) OwnerThis vehicle has EVERYTHING and MORE.....this Arcadia is definitely a luxury vehicle. We purchased a used one with very low miles to obtain all of the upgrades. I purchased a 2018 with 40k miles, like NEW! I have two children but love the 3rd row for friends and family. Drives smooth and seats fit like a glove.
AMOM38 on March 31, 2021
Truck person being convertedI think the Danali is very elegant for being such a reasonable price. I test drove a used 2015 and with 119,000 miles it didn't skip a beat love the heads up display feature, helps for those of us who cant tell how fast we are going;) dislike center counsel seems kind of small and useless, just a armrest. Also i'm not sure If the newer models have changed much but bucket seats need better drink holders putting your drink in the door(small and shallow hole at that ), is a disaster waiting to happen especially with kids in and out slamming a door with a fountain drink or something other than a caped liquid is going to cause a major mess inside. if it gets shook out when the door slams shut. should be on the floor in back of center consol. Also maybe mirrors a touch larger but again being used to a truck, if it didn't have the safety features of blind spot alerts it would be a added effort of making sure its clear with a small mirror. Love the comfort the leg room i had a friend along that's 6'3 and he was very impressed how he could completely stretch is legs straight out and still left plenty of room for someone behind him. love the moon roof addition sure its nice at night. OVER ALL GREAT SUV!
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.