Choosing a trim for a specific model year isn’t always easy. There are several reasons to go with one trim over the other, especially when it comes to trim-specific features. For 2022, GMC actually made it far easier to consider the Acadia’s entry-level SLE trim compared to previous years. Much of this has to do with the fact that the 2022 GMC Acadia SLE is now the entry-level trim compared to the 2021 model, where the entry-level trim was actually the SL trim. They axed the SL for this year and buffed up the SLE.
So what do you get with the SLE? Well, numerous neat standard features. Additionally, there is an excellent variety in terms of how the SLE scales and what sort of amenities you get with it compared to the SL trim. This gives it a value proposition for potential shoppers looking for an affordable midsize crossover SUV. This article will quickly go through the top 5 reasons why you might consider buying an Acadia SLE trim for 2022.
No. 5: Standard GMC Pro Safety Assist
In previous years, the GMC Pro Safety Package was a premium package that was standard on upper-end trims, which adds much to the Acadia. Additionally, the package could be added to the lower-end trims for $695. The package probably didn’t seem like it was worth it for those who were buying on a budget, but now you don’t have to worry about that at all.
The GMC Pro Safety Assist is now a package that’s been made standard on all trims for the 2022 model year Acadia. So what does the GMC Pro Safety Assist include? It features automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, following distance indicator, front pedestrian braking, Intellibeam headlights, and lane keeping assist with lane departure warning. Added benefits like the Buckle to Drive and the front and rear park assist also add to the overall appeal of the package. With premium driving assists like side blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert, this further buffs the Acadia’s value.
The best part about it is that the GMC Pro Safety Assist is a standard inclusion for the SLE. So unlike in previous years, where going with the SL trim might bereft you of premium safety packages, you don’t have to worry about that kind of hangup with the 2022 GMC Acadia SLE trim. You still get an affordable vehicle, but you don’t have to sacrifice important features like active and passive driver safety assists in order to save some money.
No. 4: GMC Infotainment Suite with 8” Touchscreen
For recent model year outings, the GMC Acadia has had its infotainment suite updated. As recently as 2020, the midsize crossover came with only a 6” diagonal touchscreen, which even by 2020’s standards wasn’t all that impressive. However, the more recent model years have upgraded the infotainment touchscreen with improved accessibility and navigation support. For 2022, all of the Acadia trims now include a sizable touchscreen.
The GMC Infotainment System for the Acadia now features an 8” diagonal touchscreen. So if you opt for an Acadia SLE, you won’t have to worry about the entry-level trim having an entry-level touchscreen, which is common for many nameplates out there. Various other rival SUVs in the segment will relegate occupants to a 6” or 7” screen, but all of the trims for the 2022 Acadia feature an 8” touchscreen. Once again, this adds significant value to the Acadia, especially the SLE.
Now if you want the GMC Infotainment System with Navigation, you will have to opt for a premium package to have that added to the SLE. Otherwise, the suite comes with numerous expected features, such as built-in integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also have standard Bluetooth wireless connectivity for media streaming and voice-activated phone interaction for calls and messaging. Added profile customization, media streaming, and app access all come as standard inclusions for the SLE; no need to pay extra.
No. 3: 7-Passenger Seating at No Extra Cost
It may not seem like the biggest selling point for an entry-level trim, but having optional 6 or 7-passenger seating at no extra cost is a huge deal. Some alternate layout configurations for trims will run you extra, sometimes anywhere from $500 to $1,000 extra (or more, depending on what the feature is). For instance, changing a drivetrain from front or rear-wheel drive to all-wheel or four-wheel drive is a pretty hefty expense. However, in this case, there is no extra expense.
You can opt to configure a brand new 2022 GMC Acadia SLE with four captain chairs and a third-row rear-seat bench. Or, opt to have two captain chairs and a second and third-row split-bench, and you won’t have to pay extra for either configuration.
If you don’t need the 7-seater, you can stick with the 6-seater configuration, which is perfect for those who only need one bench-seat for the third row, and those who would prefer having the additional passenger volume for space instead of seating another person. This gives those in the second-row captain chairs far more room to move around, and it’s a nice compromise between space and comfort. However, if you absolutely need all the seats the Acadia has to offer, the 7-seater configuration is there and would probably make the most sense for those who want it . . . at no extra cost.
No. 2: Package Options Available for Additional Amenities
The SLE isn’t just a base trim that gives you the basics and little else. How often have you considered purchasing an entry-level trim for a popular vehicle only to find that the trim doesn’t have a specific feature you want? It’s frustrating beyond belief. Thankfully, there are packages to add, each of which is much cheaper than the trim options.
The upside to the SLE is that it is package-friendly. There are oftentimes certain trims that don’t let you customize them, as you have to get them as-is. Usually, the higher-end trims allow you to customize them and outfit them the way you want. In the case of the Acadia SLE, you can select from several base packages, exterior options, interior configurations, and accessory customization. This, once again, adds significant value to the SLE as a trim because you can select how you want to outfit it.
Some of the packages include the Roadside Safety Package, Cargo Package, Floor Liner Package, and Interior Protection Package. As more feature-rich packages, there is the Elevation Edition Package, which gives you a nice exterior and interior overhaul of the SLE, or the Driver Convenience Package for generous interior comfort amenities such as an 8-way power driver seat with lumbar support and remote start. There’s an Infotainment Package with premium Bose surround or the Hit the Road Package for travel accommodations. The customization options are plentiful and diverse for those who want them.
No. 1: Affordability
Last but certainly not least, the 2022 GMC Acadia SLE trim is affordable. It has a starting MSRP of $34,800. That’s a great price as far as mid-size, three-row, crossover SUVs are concerned. You have access to great towing; decent fuel economy; and all of the infotainment, security, and safety features you could possibly ask for out of the box—at no extra cost.
The added configuration options and scalability of the SLE are really its best selling points. Not only does it have a great entry price but you can make alterations and changes without pushing the total costs too high. Obviously, it’s not a perfect solution for those who want a high-performance SUV, or an affordable off-road solution, but for casual drivers looking for something economical, functional, and fully featured, the 2022 GMC Acadia SLE drives a good bargain that might make it hard for some shoppers to pass up.
