When we first laid eyes on GMC's new Acadia, it was under hot spotlights in a classy, marbled salon that set bright surfaces and shadow in sharp contrast, gave a nearly jeweled appeal to its rich, dappled hues and highlighted the emphasis on some subtle trim-look styling cues despite its size. This seemed a departure from GMC's longstanding all-truck, professional grade image that has been merging lately toward a more luxury defined plateau.

Acadia, now on the road, is one of three "body/frame" construction cousins from General Motors -- with the upcoming Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave -- designed to move truckier sport utility driving into the realm of carlike handling, comfort and pampering. A check of interior and exterior show why.

Among amenities beyond the basics inside are an expansive "Sky Scape" sunroof, rear seat DVD, friendly nav system, surround Bose audio, and GM's optional "head up" display to show instrument panel information at eye level. (You'd just HAVE to know if you're speeding.) There's room for seven or eight, and a hefty hunk of cargo. (GMC showed off a huge stack of cardboard boxes it boasts would be equal to interior volume.)

Power is from a 275-hp, 3.6L V6 with six-speed automatic for better fuel economy and acceleration. A well-tuned suspension and built-in flexibility are designed to absorb road bumps and be agile in cornering and handling despite its size. While there's no "workhorse" low gearing in the AWD mix, it can haul about 4,500 pounds ($425 for a trailering package), which should get any of those summer fun vessels to a nearby lake.

Three trims are SLE, SLT1 and SLT2. EPA mileage is 17/24 or 18/26 (front drive) on regular fuel. Base for the well-appointed SLE with all safety equipment (including StabiliTrak, OnStar and air curtains for all rows) is $29,495. Loaded, prices can reach the $47,000 range.