Elk Grove Buick GMC Dealership

2026 GMC ACADIA

vs. Toyota Highlander


All-Wheel Drive Standard on All Trims


Experience luxury, technology, and capability in one impressive package.

2026 GMC Acadia vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander

A three-row SUV is the perfect vehicle for Sacramento families who prioritize space, comfort, and top tech features to keep them safe. Two great examples are the 2026 GMC Acadia and the 2026 Toyota Highlander. Compare these two vehicles below to see why the all-new GMC Acadia is winning the race as one of the better large SUVs available.

2026 GMC Acadia

2026 GMC Acadia

Starting MSRP: $45,595 ✓

Max Seating Capacity: Eight passengers ✓

Horsepower: 328 hp ✓

Surround View Camera: Standard ✓

Wireless Charging: Standard ✓

Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs ✓

2026 Toyota Highlander

2026 Toyota Highlander

Starting MSRP: $46,765

Max Seating Capacity: Seven passengers

Horsepower: 265 hp

Surround View Camera: Available

Wireless Charging: Not available

Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs

The 2026 GMC Acadia Delivers More Power and Practicality

The 2026 GMC Acadia outpaces the Highlander with stronger performance, room for an extra passenger, and a lower starting price. Also, standard perks like a surround-view camera and wireless charging make it a smarter, more tech-forward choice for families on the go. It's a preferred choice for Sacramento families who want the most value.

GMC Logo TOP FEATURES

Front exterior view of the 2026 GMC Acadia

Vehicle Overview

The 2026 GMC Acadia is a top-selling midsize SUV that has been expanded and refreshed with two new luxury models, plus an impressive tech stack and added capability. For 2026, there is the new Denali Ultimate trim, which brings the Acadia more upmarket, and a 2.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine that delivers 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Enjoy up to 5,000 lbs of towing, and benefit from AWD now standard on every trim.

Technology Highlights

Tech is a core part of the 2026 GMC Acadia, with hands-free Super Cruise included and nine camera views. There's an 8-inch available head-up display in the Ultimate trim and impressive entertainment features. Check out the Denali Ultimate's panoramic sunroof, AutoSense power liftgate and performance suspension. The rear-camera mirror is also now standard across all trims, with 19 driver safety features including Forward Collision Alert, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, and Lane Keep Assist.

Interior technology view of the 2026 GMC Acadia
Exterior styling of the 2026 GMC Acadia

Design and Styling

The 2026 GMC Acadia has been updated externally with different features on different trims. For example, the Denali Ultimate versions have a Vader Chrome logo and grille, animated LED lights, and 22-inch machined aluminum wheels with a metallic finish. Check out heated seats, wooden accents in the cabin and leather materials. The interior features tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and premium carpeted floor mats for a luxurious experience.

Awards and Accolades

We expect the 2026 GMC Acadia to do well in the awards. Last year's model was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, and that safety heritage has been brought into the new model. The 2026 GMC Acadia has already received notable praise in early reviews, and is set to be a top performer in the midsize SUV category. With its combination of luxury, technology, and capability, it's poised to continue GMC's tradition of excellence in the SUV market.

Side profile of the 2026 GMC Acadia

Shop the 2026 GMC Acadia Today!

Frequently Asked Questions

The 2026 GMC Acadia offers significant advantages over the Toyota Highlander, including a lower starting price ($45,595 vs $46,765), more powerful engine (328 hp vs 265 hp), seating for eight (vs seven), and standard features like a surround-view camera and wireless charging that are either optional or not available on the Highlander.
The 2026 GMC Acadia has a superior towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, compared to the Toyota Highlander's 3,500 pounds. This makes the Acadia better suited for Sacramento families who need to tow boats, trailers, or recreational equipment for weekend getaways.
All 2026 GMC Acadia models come standard with 19 driver safety features including Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and a rear camera mirror. Higher trims add features like HD Surround Vision and Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking. The Acadia also includes standard all-wheel drive for better traction in Sacramento's varied driving conditions.
The 2026 GMC Acadia achieves an estimated 19 MPG in the city, 24 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG combined with its efficient 2.5L turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. This provides a good balance of power and efficiency for Sacramento-area commuting and family trips.
The 2026 GMC Acadia offers comfortable seating for up to 8 passengers with its available 2-3-3 configuration, compared to the Toyota Highlander's maximum of 7 passengers. This extra seating capacity is perfect for larger Sacramento families or carpools.
The 2026 Acadia offers several tech advantages over the Highlander, including standard wireless charging (not available on Highlander), standard surround-view camera (optional on Highlander), available Super Cruise hands-free driving technology, and an 8-inch head-up display. The Acadia also features a more powerful infotainment system with enhanced connectivity options.
The 2026 GMC Acadia is particularly well-suited for Sacramento families with its standard all-wheel drive for occasional mountain trips, higher towing capacity for boat or trailer use, extra passenger seating for larger families, and advanced safety features for city driving. Its powerful engine also provides confident merging and passing on area freeways.
Absolutely! Contact Elk Grove Buick GMC at 916-691-2700 to schedule your test drive of the all-new 2026 GMC Acadia. Our knowledgeable staff will help you experience all the features and capabilities of this impressive SUV and compare it directly with competing models.

Elk Grove Buick GMC | 8450 Laguna Grove Dr., ELK GROVE, CA 95757 | Sales: 916-691-2700 | Service Center