The GMC Acadia is a three-row SUV built for families and long hauls, but it doesn’t shy away from upscale details or legit tech. If you’re shopping the midsize SUV space and want something a little more premium without losing practicality, the new Acadia might hit that sweet spot. Let’s dig into the performance and comfort features in the 2026 GMC Acadia.
Key Takeaways
- GMC introduces a new Denali Ultimate trim and two new exterior paint options for 2026.
- A 328-horsepower turbocharged engine is standard across the lineup.
- Super Cruise, wireless charging, and a 15-inch touchscreen also come standard.
What’s New for the Acadia in 2026?
GMC already gave the Acadia a major redesign for 2024, so 2026 is more of a refinement year, but there are still a few solid additions. You now get a standard key card for entry and start-up, and two new exterior paint options join the mix: Glacier White Tricoat and Riverstone Metallic.
The biggest addition, though, is the Denali Ultimate trim. It’s the most high-end Acadia ever offered, packed with luxury materials and high-end tech from top to bottom.
Denali Ultimate Has All the Bells and Whistles
The new Denali Ultimate isn’t just a badge—it brings the goods. Outside, it’s got a Vader chrome grille, animated LED daytime running lights, unique badging, massive 22-inch machined wheels, and After Midnight Metallic finish.
Inside, the Denali Ultimate features heated and ventilated Woodland Mahogany massaging front seats, laser-etched Paldao wood trim, and embossed topographical map designs on the door panels and seatbacks. There’s also a 16-speaker Bose sound system, a rearview camera mirror, and a configurable 8-inch head-up display.
Turbo Power and Smooth Performance Throughout the Lineup
All 2026 Acadias come with a 328-hp, 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder and an eight-speed automatic transmission. You can stick with front-wheel drive or opt for all-wheel drive depending on your needs.
Fuel economy hits 20/27 mpg with four-wheel drive and drops slightly to 19/24 mpg with all-wheel drive. With a 19.4-gallon tank, you’ll see up to 446 miles of range on four-wheel drive models, which is plenty for longer drives without constant gas stops.
Modern Tech Across all Arcadia Trims
Even the base Acadia comes loaded with tech. Every model gets a 15-inch vertical touchscreen, an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six USB ports (two in each row), two 120-volt outlets, and a wireless charging pad. You also get a 12-speaker Bose audio system as standard, with the 16-speaker system reserved for higher trims like Denali Ultimate.
And yes, GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system is now available across every trim level, giving you access to one of the best semi-autonomous driving setups out there.
Is the 2026 Acadia Worth a Look?
If you liked the direction GMC took with the 2024 redesign, the 2026 Acadia builds on that momentum. The Denali Ultimate gives buyers a true luxury trim without having to jump brands, and even the lower trims bring serious tech and power to the table. Whether you need an SUV for family life, road trips, or just want something with more presence than your average crossover, the Acadia’s worth a test drive. Contact us today to find out when it arrives!