The all-new GMC Acadia may look like a sport utility vehicle, but this is one of those cases in which looks deceive. The Acadia has many of the capabilities of an SUV but it is aimed at people who want better ride and handling.

The Acadia is what the auto industry calls a "crossover," which means despite its looks it uses car-type construction and mechanical components instead of the trucky parts used in traditional SUVs.

Acadia shares those components with its siblings, the 2007 Saturn Outlook and the 2008 Buick Enclave.

Head down a curved, country road and it is easy to see GMC achieved its goals with the Acadia. It eases over rough pavement in a soothing manner but takes corners in a reassuring fashion, although the driver is always aware that this is a relatively large and heavy vehicle.

Meanwhile, a sophisticated 275-hp 3.6-liter V6 provide smooth and readily available acceleration and a new six-speed automatic transmission helps fuel economy.

In addition, all Acadias come loaded with standard safety equipment including proven lifesavers such as electronic stability control and air bags that provide head protection in a side-impact crash.

Three rows of seats provide room for seven or eight, although that assumes an extremely chummy trip. But two adults and two or three children and many of their favorite belongings could be carried with ease.

The standard Acadia has front-wheel drive but all-wheel drive is available so the Acadia offers the same bad-weather security as classic SUVs. Where it falls behind a classic SUV is in towing capacity or the ability to handle a serious, off-road chore. But for most people that won't matter a bit. For most people, the Acadia is an interesting and attractive alternative.