2022 GMC Acadia Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Positioned between the smaller Terrain and the larger Yukon, the 2022 GMC Acadia is a mid-size third-row SUV that aims to be family friendly without being a snooze-fest. There used to be more trim levels, but GM trimmed the fat this model year, choosing to ditch the base SL trim and its underwhelming 193-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. Getting rid of that trim level leaves just four: the SLE, SLT, AT4, and ever-popular Denali.

Other changes for this model year include the newly standard GMC Pro Safety Plus package, which equips a slew of advanced driver aids. A new body color (Light Stone Metallic) and new wheels come as part of the line-up now.

Whether it's a short trip or long haul, the 2022 GMC Acadia is designed for stress-free driving - with cozy seats throughout and an impressively refined ride quality. Four trim levels are available to provide drivers with different options in power and features; from base specs up to all bells & whistles on the Denali model. So if you're looking for plenty of comfort without skimping on tech amenities, then this might be your perfect ride.

Compare the Acadia SLE vs SLT Trim Levels. What is the difference?

The 2022 GMC Acadia has everything you've been looking for. It's got a newly-introduced SLE base trim that packs serious power with its 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 228hp and 258 lb.-ft of torque - all connected to the smooth, advanced 9-speed automatic transmission system as standard equipment in both trims.

For optimum offroad capabilities there are four Drive Mode Selector options on FWD models or five for AWD including Normal, Snow Sport Off Road & Trailer/Tow settings ensuring your journey goes smoothly in any weather conditions plus you have additional extras like stainless steel tips dual exhausts electronic parking brake block heater and heavy duty cooling systems all optional on both trims for ultimate convenience making this vehicle great choice!

Take your towing adventures up a notch with Hitch Guidance or the advanced level of guidance, Hitch View. The Acadia's 5-link independent rear suspension and MacPherson strut coil spring front suspension give it superior stability and handling on any terrain - an especially convenient feature when you're out trailering! StabiliTrak traction control coupled with electronic stability control ensure that no matter if you take the roads less traveled - you'll remain in complete command of where you go.

The SLE and SLT exteriors both boast eye-catching wheel options. For a classic yet stylish look, the 18" machined aluminum wheels come standard on the SLE - whereas those who prefer something bolder can choose between 20” Sterling Silver aluminums with High Gloss Black paint or bright Machined finish to make their ride truly stand out from the crowd.

Body-colored door handles, brushed aluminum roof-mounted side rails, deep-tinted glass, intermittent front windshield wipers, and heated power side mirrors with built-in turn indicators come standard. The SLT adds a hands-free power liftgate for extra convenience. Intellibeam headlights grace the front fascia along with LED headlamps. The SLT adds on LED fog lamps.

Inside, you will see more changes. The similarities include a 4.2-inch diagonal multi-color information display, seating for six passengers, and an eight-point digital compass. The SLE has a six-speaker sound system and 8-inch diagonal GMC Infotainment System while the SLT upgrades with a built-in navigation system and eight-speaker Bose sound system.

GMC interiors boast convenience and comfort, with features like keyless open and start for a hassle-free entrance, active noise cancellation to keep the ride peaceful, cruise control so you can settle back into your journey; an HD rear vision camera to make sure that what's behind is seen. Interior lighting adds ambiance while a cabin humidity sensor keeps everything just right! For added safety there’s LATCH in the rear seats plus electronic precision shift technology combined with an engine air filtration monitor provides detailed monitoring of performance conditions – all operated from a manual tiltable/telescoping steering wheel.

On top of that, you get power door locks and a passenger sensing system to help keep occupants safe. There are also two power outlets: one on the center console and the other located in the cargo area. Regular cloth seats come on the SLE, but the SLT gets premium cloth instead. Remote start is also standard on the SLT but optional on the SLE.

There are a number of USB ports throughout the cabin, including one USB-A port in the third row. A universal garage door remote and WiFi connectivity come standard on both trims, as does smartphone app connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

There are quite a few standard safety features. The SLE and SLT come with automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, a follow distance indicator, front and rear park assist, front pedestrian braking, a blind zone alert with the lane change warning, teen driver, and rear cross traffic alert. Options include a first aid kit and roadway safety kit.

Choose from an array of distinctly named packages for your new car – the "Hit the Road," Adventure and Black or Bright Accent options, just to name a few. The Technology Package offers additional features like HD surround view camera with head-up display while upgrading to Preferred brings in more premium touches such as electric adjustable driver's seat (with memory), heated/ventilated front seats and rear outboard chairs, telescoping steering wheel plus heat-activated controls.

Compare the SLT vs AT4 Trims. What is the difference?

The Acadia's AT4 trim sets itself apart with a host of powerful components. Powered by an impressively efficient 3.6L V6 engine featuring Active Fuel Management, Variable Valve Timing and a Variable Displacement Oil Pump - the model delivers up to 310 hp and 271 lb-ft torque for remarkable performance on any terrain. Unlike other trims in its line-up, it also benefits from standard all-wheel drive as well as Hill Descent Control plus 9 speed automatic transmission giving way unparalleled power control capabilities along every journey.

The GMC AT4 is more than just a stylish upgrade - it has the same rugged look as its SLT predecessor, but with an impressive array of exterior improvements. Enjoy gloss black roof mounted side rails and eye-catching 17-inch machined wheels (with red center caps featuring the iconic GMC logo).

Inside, the AT4 is similar to the SLT. However, it loses the electric heater and defroster and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Instead, the AT4 gets its own unique leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also downgrades to the cloth seating. In other words, it is basically the SLE's cabin with a few moderations. And, as far as safety features go, there are absolutely no changes to be found. This trim level is all about delivering an off-road performance.

Compare the AT4 vs Denali. What is the difference?

The Denali trim is always a popular choice among GMC's models. It offers a little more in the way of creature comforts, which many buyers want. A number of previously optional packages become standard on this trim level, thereby justifying the price jump for most buyers.

The Denali is powered by the 3.6-L V6 engine that comes on the AT4, so its 9-speed transmission also accompanies it. Along with it comes the option for adding enhanced automatic emergency braking and the heavy-duty cooling system. You do have the ability to swap in the FWD system if you want it.

The Denali stands out from the rest, making a bold statement with 20-inch ultra bright machined aluminum wheels and satin chrome accents adorning body-colored door handles. It's also equipped with power side mirrors that auto dim for optimal visibility at night and can be upgraded to include keyless entry. But its crowning feature is the massive Denali grille set against the front fascia – sure to turn heads in any parking lot.

Inside of the Denali trim level, you will find a few more standard features equipped. The Denali gets an 8-inch diagonally positioned multi-colored and reconfigurable driver information screen. An eight-way power front passenger seat comes standard, as does an automatic heated steering wheel. You are able to opt for a chic upgraded perforated leather seating trim done in Dark Galvanized/Light Shale. A Jet Black option also exists. The head-up display and heated and ventilated front seats all come equipped, and the rear outboard seats in the second row gain a heating function too. There are also memory settings for the front seats.

A rear camera mirror is optional, giving you a less obstructed view of what is behind you as you drive. It does let you switch between the digital view and the traditional one. It comes with vertical tilt, brightness, and zoom adjustments. Carpeted floor mats are added to the third row, and wireless charging is standard.

Final Thoughts

Now that we have gone through all four of the 2022 GMC Acadia's trim levels, the question becomes "Which one is the best option for the average buyer?" While each trim has something going for it, we would go with the SLT.

Of course, if you plan on doing some towing, the Denali is the trim to get. With the trailering package and V6 engine equipped, this trim level has no problem towing up to 4,000 pounds. This bests the lower trim levels by far.

But you might not be planning on towing much of anything, and that is perfectly alright. That is why we recommend the SLT trim level. The SLT has way more standard equipment on it than the base SLE trim, and the price difference between these trims is not exactly staggering. Buying up one trim level therefore makes a lot of sense for the practical purchaser. And, if you feel up to it, you can add the Technology and Preferred Packages for reasonable enough prices, still keeping the vehicle below the Denali's somewhat staggering (for this class, at least) price point.

With so many options available for customizing the 2022 GMC Acadia, you can buy the SLT and select a few different ways to make the Acadia uniquely yours. Overall, buyers tend to enjoy the amount of power offered from the 2.0-L turbo 4-cylinder, and the cabin provides comfort for days. The downsides are few and far between (mostly having to do with the lackingthird-row and cargo space), and the Acadia makes for a strong and capable family-oriented SUV. It shows that "family-friendly" does not equate with boring, mixing comfort and safety with a bit of fun from the engine and tech features.