2026 GMC ACADIA

NEW ULTRA LUXURY TRIM BOOSTS ACADIA 
IN COMPETITIVE MIDSIZE SUV SEGMENT

When it comes to U.S. SUV sales, the most competitive segment is the large number of compact models on the market today. But right behind are the midsize midsize models that usually offer such benefits as three-row seating.

One of the biggest in the segment is the subject of this review, the 2026 GMC Acadia, and comes with a third row suitable (at least on shorter trips) for adults while still providing decent space for cargo in the far back.

The Acadia debuted as a 2007 full-size model as the first unibody crossover SUV from the well-known truck manufacturer. For its second generation in 2017 the company downsized it to a midsize model where it remains today.

The Acadia got a face-lift for 2020 and a redesign two years ago for 2024 moved it into its third generation.

The 2026 GMC Acadia comes in four trim levels. The Elevation serves as the base followed by the AT4, which is more tuned for off-roading experiences, and two luxury oriented trims tagged Denali and Denali Ultimate.

This review is based on the 2026 GMC Adadia Delnali Ultimate with all-wheel drive. 

All 2026 GMC Acadia models some with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that puts out a robust 328 horsepower and 324 pound-feet of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers fuel mileage of 20 miles-per-gallon city, 23 highway in AWD configuration and 20/26/22 with standard front-wheel drive. Drive modes can be adjusted to Snow, Tour, Sport, Tow, and Off-Road.

As might be expected the automaker has loaded up the 2026 GMC  Acadia Denali Ultimate with a boatload of standard equipment.

Included on that list are such features as the company’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system, an 8-year subscription for OnStar), a head-up display. 15-inch LCD display with Google and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bose premium sound, wireless charging, tri-zone climate control, 7-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, and a heated steering wheel.

Standard exterior features include  a panoramic power sunroof with sunshade, an AutoSense (hands-free). power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, heated exterior mirrors, and brushed aluminum roof rails.

It rides on  standard 22-inch wheels.

Safety features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert, enhanced emergency braking, street sign recognition, intersection emergency braking, blind-zone steering assist, side 6 and rear pedestrian alert, front pedestrian and cyclist alert, HD Surround Vision,  and a digital rear camera.

That 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate starts at $64,900 but with so much in the way of standard features you likely will get by with just the added destination and deliver fee added on to bring the total to $66,795.

The Elevation trim starts at $45,595, the AT4 at $54,195, and the Denali at $57,595.

What I liked about the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali: The interior is roomy and seats are comfortable. Infotainment features are easy to operate. Cargo space is good, even behind the third row. It’s a small thing but I really like the digital rear view mirror. It covers the usual blind spots by providing a wide view of traffic approaching from behind.

What I didn’t like about the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali: The engine has kind of a “tinny” sound when accelerating, which is kind of annoying. Numerous safety features come standard. It is one of the more expensive offerings in the midsize SUV segment.

Would I buy the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali? It may get overlooked because of GMC’s reputation for producing pickup trucks, but its definitely worth a look if you are seeking a 3-row SIV. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) made the Acadia a Top Safety Pick.