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2017 GMC Acadia promises better living through downsizing (pictures)

GMC's second-generation Acadia midsize crossover SUV aims to prove that better things come in smaller packages. It's lighter, more efficient and has more tech, but is it better?

Chris Paukert
Following stints in TV news production and as a record company publicist, Chris spent most of his career in automotive publishing. Mentored by Automobile Magazine founder David E. Davis Jr., Paukert succeeded Davis as editor-in-chief of Winding Road, a pioneering e-mag, before serving as Autoblog's executive editor from 2008 to 2015. Chris is a Webby and Telly award-winning video producer and has served on the jury of the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. He joined the CNET team in 2015, bringing a small cache of odd, underappreciated cars with him.
Chris Paukert
2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

The second-generation Acadia's sleeker bodywork clothes a much smaller, much lighter chassis.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

The Acadia's wheelbase has shrunk by 6.4 inches, and overall length is shorter by 7.2 inches.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

This is the top-spec Denali model, with its own unique chrome trim and larger six-spoke alloy wheels.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

The Denali's most obvious design cue is its "dimensional" chrome grille.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

New for 2017 is an available hands-free liftgate that opens with a wave of a leg.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

High-intensity discharge headlamps come standard on the Denali, while lesser models make due with halogen illumination.

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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

Eagle-head taillamps seem to be getting more and more common on SUVs.

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2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

The second-generation Acadia's biggest -- and most needed -- change was inside, and the new dashboard and cabin offer welcome improvements in both technology and aesthetics.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

The Denali model receives a larger digital display in its gauge cluster than base models.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

Front seats are easy to get in and out of and were comfortable for a day of driving, though not the most supportive for twisty roads.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

It's a bit surprising to find a new GM vehicle released with an automatic using just six forward speeds, but it's a time-proven and well-behaved gearbox.

2017 GMC Acadia Denali
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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

This all-wheel drive Denali V6 has various modes that influence everything from throttle mapping to transmission shift points, steering heft and suspension firmness.

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2017 GMC Acadia Denali

Rear-seat climate control is standard on the Denali.

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