GMC Debuts Revised Acadia at Chicago Auto Show

Three-Row Crossover Gets Refreshed Exterior and New Safety Equipment

RAYNHAM, MASS. (03/09/2012)(readMedia)-- GMC unveiled its redesigned Acadia sport utility vehicle at the Chicago Auto Show last month, revealing a refreshed exterior, revised interior and new safety equipment. Due to reach GMC dealerships later this year, the 2013 Acadia gains a bluff front end, with a large grill and headlights that bring it more in line with the rest of the GMC lineup.

While the exterior might be what first attracts attention, it's the new safety equipment that will draw families to the 2013 GMC Acadia. The Acadia, which debuted as GMC's first crossover offering in 2007, will be the first vehicle on the market featuring a front center airbag, which deploys between the front seats to protect passengers in far-side collisions. GMC is also offering available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems that use radar to watch spots that the driver might otherwise be unable to.

"Massachusetts families have come to depend on GMC to provide the safest vehicles possible, and advancements like the center-mounted airbag prove that their trust isn't misplaced," said Gary Carter, general sales manager at Massachusetts GMC dealership Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac. "The Acadia represented GMC's first foray into the crossover segment, and now the evolution of the brand is continuing with industry-first safety features."

Like the previous Acadia, the new 2013 model will be available in the Denali trim, which brings aluminum accents, heated and cooled front seats and standard all-wheel drive to the table, as well as a polished grill and chrome exhaust outlets. GMC's luxury-oriented Denali trim has proven popular with American utility vehicle buyers looking for deluxe options; Denali lineup sales were up 79 percent in 2011 thanks in part to the addition of Denali versions of the Acadia and the Sierra heavy-duty pickups, the 2500HD and 3500HD.

Banking on the success of the expanding Denali lineup, Automotive News is reporting that General Motors is planning on expanding the luxury trim to the GMC Terrain crossover, which is better known for its cargo-capacity than for having an upscale interior. That would change with the addition of a Denali version of the most affordable vehicle in GMC's lineup.

Even without a Denali trim, sales of the 2012 Terrain jumped up last month, improving 12.5 percent over February of 2011. The uptick occurred as gas prices rose across the country, making the Terrain's segment-leading 32 mpg on the highway extra appealing.

"We love the Denali line and the luxurious driving experience that it offers," Carter noted. "A Terrain Denali would offer a deluxe option for our customers who want the compact utility of the Terrain with the well-appointed cabin and unique styling of our Denali trucks and SUVs. That said, the Terrain already delivers the capability and fuel-efficiency that have made it a favorite of our customers."

About Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac:

Serving Massachusetts car buyers for more than 50 years, Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac has earned a reputation for top-notch service and satisfied customers. With a wide selection of models like the Cadillac CTS, Buick Enclave and GMC Sierra pickup truck, Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac has the vehicles shoppers want, as well as the skilled service staff needed to keep their cars, trucks and SUVs running like new for years to come. Stop by their dealership at 1525 New State Highway in Raynham, Massachusetts, browse their inventory online at www.mastriamotors.com, find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MastriaBuickGMC, or call them at 800-821-1998 today.