Three Key PointsThe Denali Ultimate trim gives the Acadia a luxury-level interior with premium materials and advanced features.The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers strong performance with 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque.The redesigned Acadia is significantly larger than before, improving passenger comfort and cargo space.The third generation of the GMC Acadia is dramatically different from the two generations which came before it. For 2026, the Acadia continues in its fully redesigned 2024 form with larger proportions, a more rugged design language, and significantly improved technology. At the top of the lineup sits the Denali Ultimate AWD, new for 2026, the pinnacle trim level for the model, jam packed with luxury appointments and standard features that set it apart from the rest of the lineup in high fashion. My test vehicle's base price was $64,900. With the $1,095 Glacier White Tricoat paint option and a $1,895 destination charge, the total price came to $67,890. After spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear GMC is positioning the Acadia as a more premium alternative to mainstream three-row SUVs. The Denali Ultimate trim adds high-end materials, advanced technology, and confident turbocharged performance, making it one of the most upscale vehicles in the segment. Here’s how the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate AWD performed for a week in real word conditions. Exterior and Interior Styling The newest Acadia looks far more substantial than the previous generation. GMC has given it a bold, squared-off design that aligns closely with the styling direction seen on the Yukon and Sierra. The top dog Denali Ultimate trim amplifies that presence with distinctive upscale details like a Signature Denali black grille and grille frame, upsized 22-inch dark aluminum alloy wheels, a unique lower bumper with black trim, and gloss black body trim. Together, they make for a slightly more menacing look that's popular in the industry today. The side view shows off the good proportions along with an upright stance, large intricate wheels, and chunkified and body-colored fender trim. While it's by no means distinct or unique, the profile of the Acadia is attractive. The slight uptick in the rear side window is a trend these days, but the Acadia ditches the floating roof trend like the ones found on the Lexus TX and the Infiniti QX60. Inside, the Denali Ultimate clearly displays why it's the top trim. It's more refined than even the standard Denali. The cabin features upgraded Woodland Mahogany leather seat trim, not available on the standard Denali, as well as exotic Paldao wood trim. It's a very architectural look, almost an American version of the Volvo XC90. Linear dash trim, leather etched detailing, and a floating instrument display shroud add to the sophistication. Additional special touches on the Denali Ultimate trim include contrast stitching on the seats and doors, topographic relief patterns throughout, and trim-specific floor mats that contribute to the upscale cabin. I'ts a special flavor that no other SUV bears, and it's impressive to see at this price. Infotainment and Technology2026-gmc-acadia-denali-ultimate Technology is one of the strongest aspects of the new Acadia. The centerpiece of the cabin is a large 15-inch vertical touchscreen that runs GMC’s latest infotainment system with Google Built-in. The interface feels quick, responsive, and intuitive to use, making it easy to navigate menus, access navigation, or control vehicle functions.The Acadia also features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that provides customizable displays for driving information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with wireless phone charging and a premium Bose sound system that delivers strong audio quality.The Acadia Denali Ultimate also adds a 16-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system, a configurable 8-inch head-up display, a nine-camera surround-view system, and a complimentary three-year subscription to GM's superb Super Cruise Level 2 hands-free driving system.Comfort, Space, and Usability2026-gmc-acadia-denali-ultimate One of the biggest improvements in the newest Acadia is its increased size. The SUV is noticeably larger than the previous generation, and the extra space significantly improves passenger comfort. Second-row passengers enjoy generous legroom and comfortable captain’s chairs in the Denali Ultimate trim. These seats slide and recline, allowing passengers to adjust the seating position or create more space for third-row occupants.2026-gmc-acadia-denali-ultimate The third row (32.4 inches of legroom) is now far more usable than the last-gen's 29.7 inches. While still best suited for shorter trips, adults can sit comfortably in the third row. Cargo capacity is also competitive for the segment. The Acadia boasts 23.0 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row, 57.3 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97.5 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat. Overall, the Acadia’s interior layout makes it a practical family SUV that balances passenger comfort with everyday usability.Driving Experience2026-gmc-acadia-denali-ultimate Under the hood, the 2026 Acadia Denali Ultimate uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-feet of torque. Those are good numbers, but the Acadia Denali Ultimate AWD isn't exactly up to the performance task. While acceleration numbers are very good (0-60 mph in the mid sixes), the powertrain feels a bit rough at times and lacks responsiveness when you get on the gas. 2026-gmc-acadia-denali-ultimate Ride quality leans toward comfort, which suits the luxury-focused nature of the Denali Ultimate trim. The suspension absorbs bumps well, making the Acadia feel composed and relaxed on the highway. Despite its larger size, the SUV remains relatively easy to maneuver. It corners decently, and it does feel balanced. Steering, although light and lacking feedback, is fairly precise and on-center.Final ThoughtsThe 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate AWD goes whole hog on a premium experience, at least inside. The driving experience isn't as refined as we'd hoped, although power is more than adequate. With its larger size, upscale interior materials, advanced technology, and strong turbocharged engine, the Acadia now feels premium. The Denali Ultimate trim pushes the SUV even further upmarket, delivering comfort and technology that rival some luxury-brand competitors.For buyers who want a well-equipped three-row SUV with upscale features but without stepping up to a full-size vehicle, the new Acadia Denali Ultimate stands out as one of the most compelling options in the segment.
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