Our GMC Acadia Denali vs. Elevation comparison highlights distinctions and similarities to help you pinpoint the things you want in an SUV. The entry-level Elevation is generously equipped and spacious, while the penultimate Denali builds upon its framework to amp up luxury, comfort, and tech. Join our team here at Lorenzo Buick GMC as we dive into what these popular three-row SUV trims have to offer, starting with a side-by-side chart.

2027 GMC Acadia Elevation vs. Denali Side by Side

	2027 GMC Acadia Elevation	2027 GMC Acadia Denali
Performance & Utility
Engine	2.5L turbo 4-cyl
Horsepower	328
Torque	326 lb-ft
Drivetrain	FWD or AWD
Transmission	8-speed auto
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb)	20 / 26 / 22 (FWD)1 20 / 23 / 21 (AWD)2
Max. Towing Capacity		5,000 lbs3
Ground Clearance	6.8 in	7.3 in
Standard Wheel Diameter	18-in Bright Silver painted aluminum	20-in Pearl Nickel machined aluminum
Performance-Tuned Suspension	Available	Available
Rainsense Front Wipers		✓
Comfort & Convenience
Standard Seating Capacity	8	7
Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	42.6 / 40 / 38.2 in
Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	44.3 / 41.5 / 32.1 in
Shoulder Room (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	62 / 62 / 57.9 in
Hip Room (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	59.2 / 58.4 / 48.6 in
Cargo Volume (Behind 3rd / 2nd / 1st Row)	23 / 57.3 / 97.5 in
Driver-Seat Adjustability	8-way power
Standard Upholstery	Cloth	Perforated leather
Available Upholstery	CoreTec	-
Heated Front Seats	✓	✓
Ventilated Front Seats	-	✓
Heated 2nd-Row Seats (Outboard)	Available	✓
Panoramic Power Sunroof	Available	Available
AutoSense Power Liftgate	✓	✓
Infotainment & Tech
Digital Instrument Cluster	11 in
Infotainment Display	15 in
Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™	✓	✓
Audio System	12-speaker Bose® premium audio
Wireless Charging	✓	✓
Camera Views	9	10
HD Surround Vision	✓	✓
8-in Head-Up Display	Available	✓
Packages
Assisted Driving Package	✓	✓
Driver Convenience Package	✓	✓
Super Cruise™ Package	Available	✓
Elevation Premium Package	Available	-
Denali Reserve Package	-	Available
Trailering Package	✓	✓
Cargo Package	Available	Available
Floor Liner Package	Available	Available
Luxury Package	Available	✓
Illumination Package	Available	Available
Rugged Package	Available	Available
Black Badging Package	-	Available

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2027 GMC Acadia Denali vs. Elevation: Performance

Let's kick off our GMC Acadia Elevation vs. Denali review with a look at performance. You won't find many differences in this category.

As you can see above, these trims share a 328-horsepower powertrain. Front-wheel drive, StabiliTrak, and a fully independent suspension are all standard for both models, though you can equip either with all-wheel drive and a performance-tuned suspension for added traction and sporty handling, respectively. Gas mileage also remains consistent.

GMC Acadia Elevation vs. Denali: Design

With a look that feels distinctly upscale, the Denali steals the show when it comes to exterior style; that doesn't mean the Elevation won't turn heads, though.

The higher-tier variant has a unique Denali grille and badging, along with Galvano Silver accents. It adds Chrome strips to the body-color door handles that you'll find on the Elevation, and brushed aluminum roof rails replace the black ones found on the entry-level sibling. The Elevation, on the other hand, takes on an understated appearance with less brightwork across the exterior, but we still think it's an exceptionally handsome SUV.

GMC Acadia Denali vs. Elevation: Tech Features

You don't have to move up to the Denali to get a well-appointed cabin. Every 2027 Acadia comes with a strong selection of standard tech. For instance, the Elevation and Denali share these amenities:

• 15-inch Premium GMC Infotainment System
• 11-inch driver information center
• 12-speaker Bose® Premium Audio System
• Wireless charging
• HD Surround Vision
• Over 19 standard safety and driver-assistance technologies

That being said, climbing to the Denali will unlock even more, such as an 8-inch Head-Up Display and Super Cruise™ hands-free driving – both can be added to the Elevation for an additional fee.

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Acadia Elevation vs. Acadia Denali: Towing & Off-Road Capabilities

Motorists eager to get the most out of their new GMC Acadia for sale on rough terrain can choose an AWD version of the Denali or Elevation. With larger 20-inch wheels, the Denali has a bit more ride height to work with, though the smaller wheels on the Elevation mean more sidewall to absorb bumps. You may want to consider the off-road-ready AT4 if conquering trails is a regular occurrence for you.

When it's time to bring a trailer along, you can't go wrong with either SUV. Both are equipped with a Trailering Package that includes a seven-pin wiring harness and Class III hitch, allowing them to pull up to 5,000 pounds.³ You'll also have a Traction Select System with the Elevation and Denali, which includes a standard Tow/Haul setting.

GMC Acadia Elevation vs. GMC Acadia Denali: Which One Is Right for You?

Reading about these trims is a good start, but conducting your own in-person 2027 GMC Acadia Denali vs. Elevation review lets you experience their differences beyond a spec sheet. Plan your visit to our Miami dealership to take each one out for a spin and see how they can shape your daily drives. We regularly have GMC Acadia specials that may be able to help you acquire your preferred model.

GMC Acadia Denali vs. GMC Acadia Elevation FAQs

What is the difference between the GMC Acadia Denali vs. Elevation?

The main differences in our GMC Acadia Denali vs. Elevation matchup come down to interior amenities and exterior details. Though the Elevation is well-appointed and stylish, the Denali offers more premium characteristics, like leather seats and unique body accents.

Which comes with a better package: the Acadia Denali or the Elevation?

The 2027 GMC Acadia Denali boasts a wider selection of standard and optional packages. Check out the chart above to see what already comes equipped and what can be added to each Acadia model.

Which has a better engine: the GMC Acadia Elevation or the Denali?

The Acadia Elevation and Denali come outfitted with the same 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque.

What Our Happy Customers Say About The GMC Acadia

Greg Mack

08-13-2024

We negotiated the purchase of our new GMC Acadia over the phone, as well as our trade-in with our salesman, Jorge Anton, as we live on the western side of the State . He was very responsive and offered higher than expected trade-in offer which helped close the sale. The day we picked up our vehicle, Jorge was tied up with other business so he had Juan Regueiro greet us and and handle the close of the transaction. Juan was very personable and extremely knowable on set up the vehicle's functions, Onstar and MYGMC app. The dealer's finance manager, Joshua Gonzalez, had all the financing paperwork complete when we arrived and he did a great job explaining all the paperwork we signed. Overall, from start to finish we were only in the dealership for 45 minutes. This was my first time buying vehicle at Lorenzo Buick GMC. I would highly recommend them!

Susana LayTejeda

08-13-2023

Today I fulfilled my dream of having my GMC Acadia, thanks to the help of my saleswoman Milka Álvarez who always does everything possible to make me happy. I recommend the Dealer 100% both the manager and the financier Yosbel do everything possible, their good treatment and affection make him the Dealer of our family. Thank you so much.

Jaime Mitrani

08-13-2019

Azuan (salesman) and Marcial (finance) provided excellent service yesterday as my wife and I purchased a new Acadia from this dealership. The dealer manager as well was incredibly kind and helpful. What a team they have over there! Keep it up gents, we will be back. Great prices and great service.

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¹EPA-estimated mpg for the 2.5L turbo 4-cyl with 8-speed automatic FWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at https://www.fueleconomy.gov.

²EPA-estimated mpg for the 2.5L turbo 4-cyl with 8-speed automatic AWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at https://www.fueleconomy.gov.

³GM-estimated. Maximum trailering ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer.