The 2010 GMC Acadia is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces about 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
In more detail, the engine is a DOHC V6 with variable valve timing and is part of GM’s Lambda crossover family. It uses a timing chain rather than a belt and is designed to provide smooth, practical performance for a three-row SUV. The drivetrain can be configured for either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the model and options chosen.
Engine specification
Key technical details of the 2010 Acadia's powerplant are listed below.
- Displacement: 3.6 liters
- Configuration: V6, double overhead cam (DOHC)
- Valvetrain: Variable valve timing (VVT)
- Power: 288 horsepower at around 6,300 rpm
- Torque: 270 lb-ft at around 5,100 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (standard) or all-wheel drive (optional)
These specifications summarize the core engine details for the 2010 Acadia's 3.6L V6 powerplant.
Performance and efficiency
Fuel economy and drive characteristics vary by drivetrain. Estimates commonly cited for the 2010 Acadia are:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD): about 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- All-wheel drive (AWD): about 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
Overall, the 3.6L V6 delivers solid everyday acceleration and reliable performance for a family SUV of its era, supported by the six-speed automatic transmission and flexible drivetrain options.
Maintenance considerations
Proper maintenance helps sustain performance and longevity for the 3.6L V6. Key points include regular oil changes with the recommended viscosity, timely spark plug replacement, coolant changes, and checking the timing chain area during service intervals. The engine uses a timing chain rather than a belt, which generally reduces the frequency of timing-belt-related maintenance.
For prospective buyers or owners, verifying service history and ensuring routine maintenance were performed can help minimize potential issues with this engine in the Acadia’s early-2010s era.
Summary
The 2010 GMC Acadia runs on a 3.6-liter V6 with 288 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, offered in FWD and optional AWD configurations, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It combines practical power with SUV versatility, supported by standard maintenance practices and reliable design for its class in that model year.
What kind of engine does a 2010 GMC Acadia have?
2010 GMC Acadia Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 3 Acadia SLE Sport Utility 4D | Save 2 of 3 Acadia SL 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.
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.
What is the most common problem with a 2010 GMC Acadia?
Top 2010 GMC Acadia Problems
- Transmission Fault and/or Check Engine Light With Code P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, P2715, and...
- GMC Acadia brake booster failure due to master cylinder leaking brake fluid.
- The Check Engine Light With Code: P0011, P0014, P0021, P0024, P0341, P0346, P0336, and/or P0391.