GMC vehicles balance refinement and performance as well or better than any of its competitors. A comparison between the 2026 GMC Acadia vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander shows buyers just how different these two three-row crossover SUVs really are. GMC has built the current Acadia to be more comfortable for passengers, better for cargo-hauling and more than its Toyota Highlander competitor. Additionally, independent reviews praised the Acadia for being easy to drive despite its size. Follow along with Davis Chevrolet while we take a closer look at these two excellent platforms.
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| 2026 Chevrolet Traverse | 2026 Toyota Highlander | |
| Engine | Turbo. 2.5-L, 4-Cyl. | Turbo. 2.4-L, 4-Cyl. |
| Horsepower / Torque (lb.-ft.) | 328 / 326 | 265 / 310 |
| Max. Passenger Capacity | 8 people | 8 people |
| Max. Cargo Volume (L) | 2,764 | 2,387 |
Design
Passenger-Friendly Interior
The GMC Acadia shares a refined interior design language with the rest of its siblings. Buyers can choose from an array of world-class materials that elevate the passenger experience higher than what is arguably available in the Highlander. Additionally, the 2026 Acadia offers more legroom in all three of its rows compared to the Toyota SUV.
Cargo Volume
In the same way the 2026 GMC Acadia offers more passenger space than the Highlander, it also makes more cargo volume available across the board. When every seat is filled with people, the GMC SUV makes 651 litres available, compared to 453 in the Toyota. Folding the third row down makes 1,623 litres available in the GMC Acadia, and it offers a maximum of 2,761 litres. Each of these figures outplaces what is found inside the 2026 Highlander.
Performance
Efficient Performance
Every 2026 Acadia trim grade can outperform every 2026 Highlander trim grade. GMC employs a turbocharged 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine making 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. While the 2026 Highlander uses a similar engine platform, it doesn’t make as much power as the Acadia. Additionally, even with the clear discrepancy in output, both SUVs have similar fuel economy scores.
Towing
The 2026 GMC Acadia has a top towing capacity of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs.), matching what its Toyota Highlander competitor can offer. Additionally, the 2026 Acadia come factory-equipped with a robust towing package that also includes:
- Class III hitch
- Heavy-duty oil cooler
- Towing camera system
- Seven-pin wiring harness
Technology
Advanced Connectivity
GMC and Toyota have advanced infotainment systems. However, the current Acadia can also feature Google Built-in with available enhanced connectivity to popular Google apps for email, messaging, navigation and more. Toyota doesn’t offer this kind of Google integration.
Available Super Cruise™
The Super Cruise system allows drivers on more than 300,000 km of highway to take their hands off the wheel, easing stress and fatigue on the person behind the wheel. Toyota doesn’t have a semi-autonomous driving system available on the Highlander.
Verdict: 2026 Acadia vs. 2026 Highlander
The three-row SUV segment is one of the most competitive classes in the automotive industry. Davis Chevrolet customers choosing the Acadia will have more power, more interior space and more advanced technology than what can be found in the current Toyota Highlander.
Now is an excellent time to visit the Davis Chevrolet showroom to take a closer look at the 2026 GMC Acadia. Make an appointment with one of our product experts today if you would like to take a comprehensive test drive or begin the pre-ordering process. When you finish the sales paperwork to bring your new Acadia home, don’t forget to stop by the service department to schedule its first round of recommended maintenance.