2012 GMC Acadia: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 GMC Acadia gets a light update led by standard hill-hold assist across the lineup. A center-console power outlet is also added, while SLT and Denali gain blind-zone spotter mirrors.
About the 2012 GMC Acadia
1st generation (2007-2016), final pre-refresh year before the 2013 facelift.
GMC positioned the Acadia as a large, professional-grade family crossover with more SUV-like presence than a typical car-based people mover. The core appeal is roomy three-row seating for seven or eight, flexible cargo space, strong V6 power, and a smoother everyday drive than a truck-based SUV. GMC’s own 2012 material emphasizes bold crossover styling, easy-access seating flexibility, useful family features, and enough towing strength for real road-trip and recreation duty.
The 2012 Acadia remains a roomy three-row family SUV powered by a V6 and six-speed automatic. SL focuses on eight-passenger seating, while SLE adds everyday conveniences such as a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, remote start, and a power liftgate. SLT brings leather and heated front seats, while Denali tops the range with cooled front seats, a head-up display, a two-panel sunroof, and distinctive Denali trim.
What changed, by category
2012 GMC Acadia specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.6 Liter | 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 | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 288 hp | 288 hp | 288 hp | 288 hp |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5200 lb | 5200 lb | 5200 lb | 5200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 116.9 cu-ft | 116.9 cu-ft | 116.9 cu-ft | 116.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Doors | 4 | 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 | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Video Input | ||||
| 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 changed on the 2012 GMC Acadia compared with the 2011 model?
The main change is standard hill-hold assist across the 2012 Acadia lineup. GMC also added a center-console power outlet, and the SLT and Denali received blind-zone spotter mirrors.
Was the 2012 GMC Acadia redesigned?
No, the 2012 GMC Acadia was not redesigned. It is the final model year before the more substantial exterior and interior refresh for 2013.
Did the 2012 GMC Acadia get a new engine or transmission?
No, the 2012 Acadia keeps the 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic used for 2011. Front-wheel drive remains standard, with all-wheel drive offered throughout the lineup.
Which 2012 GMC Acadia trims have blind-zone spotter mirrors?
The 2012 Acadia SLT and Denali have blind-zone spotter mirrors integrated into their side mirrors. The SL and SLE do not receive that trim-specific update.
Was the GMC Acadia Denali new for 2012?
No, the Acadia Denali had already joined the lineup for 2011. For 2012, it carries on with its upscale cabin and distinctive styling while adding hill-hold assist, a console power outlet, and blind-zone spotter mirrors.