The 2009 GMC Acadia uses a 3.6-liter V6 engine from GM’s High Feature family, delivering about 275 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
For the model year 2009, this was the standard engine across trims, with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The engine is designed to provide smooth, confident power suitable for a family-oriented crossover. Below are the key specifications and context for this engine in the Acadia lineup.
Engine specifications
Below are the core facts about the 3.6L V6 that powered the 2009 Acadia.
- Engine name and family: GM High Feature 3.6L V6 (code LY7)
- Displacement: 3.6 liters
- Configuration: dual overhead cam, 24 valves
- Fuel system: sequential multi-point fuel injection
- Valvetrain: variable valve timing on intake/exhaust
- Horsepower: 275 hp (about 206 kW) @ ~6,000 rpm
- Torque: 251 lb-ft (340 N·m) @ ~3,200–3,800 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain options: front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
In short, the 3.6L V6 LY7 provided the primary powertrain for the 2009 Acadia, pairing essential power with a versatile drivetrain setup for a mid-size crossover.
Context and evolution
The GM Lambda SUVs, including the Acadia, Outlook, Enclave, and Traverse, used this 3.6L V6 configuration during the late 2000s. While later model years saw updates and new variants in the broader GM V6 family, the 2009 Acadia specifically relied on the LY7 3.6L V6 for its propulsion in that year.
Performance and practicality notes
The engine offered a balance of capable highway acceleration and adequate towing for a family crossover, with performance that aligned with the expectations for a vehicle of the Acadia’s size and class. Real-world fuel economy varied with drivetrain and driving conditions, but the 3.6L V6 was the standard powerplant across trims for 2009.
Summary: For the 2009 GMC Acadia, the engine was a 3.6-liter V6 from GM’s High Feature family (LY7), producing about 275 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic and available in both FWD and AWD configurations.
What kind of engine does a 2009 GMC Acadia have?
2009 GMC Acadia Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 2 Acadia SLE Sport Utility 4D | Save 2 of 2 Acadia SLT Sport Utility 4D |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| 200.7" L x 78.2" W x 69.9" H | 200.7" L x 78.2" W x 69.9" H |
| Engine | |
| V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
Which Acadia year to stay away from?
Q: Which GMC Acadia years should be avoided? A: Potential buyers should avoid the GMC Acadia from the first generation, particularly the 2008 model year, and from the second generation, the 2012 and 2013 model years are not recommended.
Is the 2009 GMC Acadia good or bad?
Edmunds says. With ample room for up to eight passengers, a comfortable ride, respectable performance and decent fuel economy, the 2009 GMC Acadia ranks as one of the best family-oriented crossovers available.
Which Acadia has a V6 engine?
PERFORMANCE. Powering the Acadia is a choice of two engines. Standard is a 230-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Available is a 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine - standard on the AT4 and Denali trims.