About 2013 GMC Acadia The 2013 GMC Acadia was developed to make a strong one first impression. A chiseled, three-bar grille sits prominently in the new, more upright design for the 2013 model. The new Acadia gets subtle exterior design updates, including wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. New 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheel patterns complement the vehicle's lines and stance. The Acadia's refined interior uses upgraded soft-touch materials, with French stitching that adds a tailored look and red ambient light flowing across the dashboard. Acadia SLT and Denali models get aluminum accents on the center console, doors and dash. The redesigned Acadia is the first vehicle on the market with GMC's new "front center airbag system," created to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. It deploys from the inboard side of the driver's seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger. The 2013 Acadia lineup includes SLE, SLT and Denali models, with seven- or eight-passenger configurations. All models are powered by a 3.6L V-6 VVT engine that uses gasoline direct injection technology to optimize performance and fuel economy. The engine is paired with Acadia's fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission to help give FWD models an EPA-estimated 24 mpg on the highway. The transmission controls have been revised for 2013 to provide quicker and more consistent shifts, for a higher-quality feel behind the wheel. All-wheel drive is available. The Acadia also is capable of towing up to 5,200 pounds.