2026 GMC Acadia vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander — A Premium SUV Showdown in Bremerton, WA
Discover Our GMC Acadia Inventory!Contact UsFor families and adventure seekers in Bremerton, Silverdale, and the rest of Kitsap County, a midsize SUV often makes the most sense — combining daily comfort, capability, and smart technology. Two of the top options are the 2026 GMC Acadia and the 2026 Toyota Highlander. Both are solid choices with excellent reliability. But in my view, the 2026 GMC Acadia pulls ahead when it comes to bold styling, next-generation tech, and driving confidence. At Haselwood Chevrolet GMC, we believe the Acadia represents a new standard for refined versatility.
My Verdict: The GMC Acadia Delivers More
After driving both vehicles, I can confidently say that the 2026 GMC Acadia offers a more rewarding and upscale feel. The Highlander remains a dependable favorite, but the Acadia’s turbocharged punch, luxury-level interior, and forward-thinking features give it a meaningful edge for Bremerton-area families who want performance without compromise.
Performance & Power: Turbocharged Excitement vs. Everyday Efficiency
The 2026 Acadia stands out with its 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, which produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. Whether I’m merging onto Highway 3 or cruising out toward the Hood Canal, the acceleration feels smooth, strong, and instant.
By contrast, the Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbo engine makes about 265 hp — decent for daily driving around Silverdale or Port Orchard, but it doesn’t feel quite as responsive or refined. Plus, the Acadia offers an available twin-clutch AWD system that gives me added confidence in slippery Puget Sound weather.
Performance Highlights for the Acadia:
- 2.5L Turbocharged 4-cyl (328 hp / 326 lb-ft)
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Available twin-clutch AWD for enhanced traction
- Crisp, confident acceleration
- Maximum towing capacity: up to 5,000 lbs
In my experience, the Acadia balances power and composure really well — whether I’m doing school drop-offs in Bremerton or heading up to Seattle for a weekend.
Interior Comfort & Design: Upscale Style with Real-World Function
Inside the Acadia, you immediately feel the difference. The 15-inch portrait-style touchscreen feels modern and sleek. Soft-touch surfaces, elegant stitching, and quality trim elevate the cabin in a way that outpaces what I’ve seen in the Highlander. Seating for up to eight is practical, and the layout is smart — it makes sense for families, for work, or for hauling gear around Kitsap County.
By comparison, the Highlander’s cabin works well, but it feels more utilitarian and less luxurious. The Acadia wins when you want premium feel and real flexibility.
Interior Highlights of the Acadia:
- Large 15-inch infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
- Available Bose® premium audio system
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Panoramic dual-pane sunroof
- Optional second-row captain’s chairs
Every touchpoint feels intentional — designed for comfort without sacrificing utility.
Technology & Connectivity: Innovation You Can Use
The Acadia’s tech package is a major reason why I believe it stands out in this comparison. Its Google Built-In interface is sharp, fast, and intuitive; voice commands, mapping, and apps are all at your fingertips. And then there’s Super Cruise™, which offers hands-free driving on compatible highways — a feature that gives real value for long drives north or south of Kitsap.
Technology That Impressed Me:
- 15-inch Google Built-In touchscreen
- Optional Super Cruiseâ„¢ for hands-free highway driving
- Wireless smartphone integration
- Over-the-air software updates
- Multiple USB-C ports across all three rows
Toyota’s system is solid, but in my driving I appreciated how the Acadia’s setup felt more future-forward and connected.
Safety & Driver Assistance: Confidence for Every Trip
Safety in the 2026 Acadia feels exceptionally well covered. With GMC Pro Safety Plus standard, I felt like the vehicle had my back — whether I was navigating parking lots at Kitsap Mall or merging on WA-3.
Key Safety Features:
- GMC Pro Safety Plus suite
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keep Assist + Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Zone Steering Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Optional Surround Vision camera system
While the Highlander’s Toyota Safety Sense is a proven package, the Acadia’s driver-assist features feel more robust, and the surround-view option is a huge plus in tight parking situations.
Comparison Table: 2026 GMC Acadia vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander
| Feature | 2026 GMC Acadia | 2026 Toyota Highlander | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine / Power | 2.5 L Turbo (328 hp / 326 lb-ft) | 2.4 L Turbo (265 hp / 310 lb-ft) | Acadia is stronger and more responsive. |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic | Both smooth, Acadia has more refinement. |
| Infotainment | 15-inch portrait display | ~12.3-inch horizontal | Acadia’s screen is larger and more modern |
| Hands-Free Driving | Available Super Cruiseâ„¢ | Not available | Acadia clearly leads in tech. |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Similar, but Acadia feels more roomy. |
| Cargo Volume (Max) | ~97.5 cu. ft. | ~84.3 cu. ft. | Acadia gives you noticeably more space. |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs | Both can tow, but Acadia’s torque makes it easier. |
| Safety | GMC Pro Safety Plus | Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 | Acadia’s standard safety tech is more comprehensive. |
My Final Take: The 2026 GMC Acadia Is the Smarter, More Premium Choice
For drivers in Bremerton, Silverdale, Port Orchard, and across Kitsap County, the 2026 GMC Acadia delivers the kind of modern sophistication, power, space, and safety that families truly appreciate. While the Toyota Highlander remains a competitive, reliable option, the Acadia brings a higher level of refinement and future-ready features — making it, in my opinion, the standout midsize SUV on the market today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What engine does the 2026 GMC Acadia use?
It comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque.
Is all-wheel drive available on the Acadia?
Yes, there's an available twin-clutch AWD system for better traction and control in all weather.
What makes the Acadia’s tech different?
The Acadia offers a massive 15-inch Google Built-In touchscreen and optional Super Cruiseâ„¢ for hands-free highway driving.
How much cargo space does the Acadia provide?
Up to 97.5 cubic feet behind the front row — more than what the Highlander offers.
Which trims are available for the 2026 Acadia?
The Acadia is available in Elevation, AT4, and Denali trims, offering a mix of performance, style, and luxury.
Can I test drive the 2026 Acadia at Haselwood Chevrolet GMC?
Absolutely. Visit Haselwood Chevrolet GMC in Bremerton, WA to explore the Acadia lineup, take a test drive, and find the trim that’s right for you.
Experience the 2026 GMC Acadia at Haselwood Chevrolet GMC in Bremerton
Ready to see what sets the 2026 GMC Acadia apart? Come to Haselwood Chevrolet GMC in Bremerton to explore the Acadia’s trims, features, and technology firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a family SUV, a weekend road-trip vehicle, or a driver-focused crossover with premium feel — the Acadia checks all the boxes. Schedule a test drive today and discover why it’s becoming a top pick in Kitsap County.
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