Despite variable valve timing, this ubiquitous powerplant is estimated to get a rather tepid 17/24 mpg in FWD versions and 16/23 with AWD. Towing capacity, however, is a reasonably hefty 5,200 pounds with the proper equipment.Virtually all reviewers find acceleration more than adequate, indeed surprisingly strong, in the 2011 Acadia, with plenty of reserve for merging and passing.