2010 GMC Acadia: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2010 GMC Acadia is a light-update model, not a redesign. Its most important change is revised programming for the six-speed automatic, which helps it downshift more quickly.
About the 2010 GMC Acadia
1st generation Acadia (2007-2012), fourth model year before the 2013 refresh.
GMC positioned the Acadia as a large three-row crossover for families who wanted SUV presence and available all-wheel drive without giving up car-like ride comfort. The brochure leans heavily on easy third-row access, a low step-in height, roomy seating, and big cargo space. In plain terms, the Acadia’s core appeal is simple: it is a spacious family vehicle with adult-usable third-row room, flexible seating, and stronger towing and road-trip ability than many midsize crossovers of its time.
The SL is the simple, seating-focused version, with an eight-passenger bench seat and fold-flat second and third rows. The SLE adds family-friendly conveniences such as a power liftgate, Bluetooth, USB audio connectivity, remote start, and a rearview camera. The upscale SLT focuses on comfort and tech, including tri-zone automatic climate control and a 10-speaker Bose audio system.
What changed, by category
2010 GMC Acadia specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 288 hp | 288 hp | 288 hp |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5200 lb | 5200 lb | 5200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 116.9 cu-ft | 116.9 cu-ft | 116.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Cooled Seats | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 GMC Acadia?
The biggest change is quicker transmission response. GMC revised the six-speed automatic's programming so it downshifts more quickly, while the 3.6-liter V6 carried over.
Was the 2010 GMC Acadia redesigned?
No, the 2010 Acadia was not redesigned. It remained part of the first generation and received a light update involving transmission programming, trim organization, and equipment changes.
How did the 2010 GMC Acadia trim lineup change?
The 2010 lineup added the SL as the simpler eight-passenger entry trim and positioned the SLE above it with more convenience equipment. The SLT range also received a clearer equipment split, with the higher SLT-2 gaining standard 20-inch wheels.
What features became standard on the 2010 GMC Acadia?
A rearview camera and remote start became standard across the 2010 Acadia lineup. The SLE also gained standard Bluetooth and a power driver seat.
Did the 2010 GMC Acadia get a new engine?
No, the 2010 Acadia kept its 3.6-liter direct-injection V6. The powertrain change was revised transmission programming for quicker downshifts, not a new engine.