2026 GMC Acadia Vs. Chevy Traverse: Comparing All Features & Specs
Two three-row beasts clash in our GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Traverse comparison. Although these two SUVs are both feature-rich and have the same power output, the GMC Acadia brings more to the table with better features and a higher standard seating capacity. The team at Lorenzo Buck GMC compiled this review so you can dive into the details and decide which of these sport-ute cousins is right for your family – read on to learn more.
GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Traverse Comparison at a Glance
- As three-row SUV cousins, the GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse have nearly identical exterior dimensions, though the rugged Acadia AT4 model provides a bit more height to motorists for a better view on trails.
- As you might expect, there are only negligible differences in passenger and cargo space between these two sport-utes since their exterior designs are so similar.
- Both SUVs house a 328-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that's capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Either model can seat seven or eight occupants, depending on the configuration, but the Acadia comes standard with eight seats, while the standard setup for the Traverse accommodates seven.
- Where these sport utility vehicles truly differ is in amenities; the Traverse is a value-oriented model with more basic features compared to the premium appointments in the luxurious Acadia.
Chevy Traverse vs. GMC Acadia: Overview
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, we want you to have a quick reference for key information about the 2026 GMC Acadia and 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. That's why we made a chart for you to review. Check out the performance and dimensions specs below.
| 2026 GMC Acadia | 2026 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Engine | 2.5L turbo 4-cyl | 2.5L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 328 | 328 |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs1 | 5,000 lbs2 |
| Ground Clearance | 6.8 - 7.8 in | 6.8 - 7.8 in |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 20 / 27 / 233 | 20 / 26 / 224 |
| Standard Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd / 2nd / 1st Row) | 23 / 57.3 / 97.5 cu ft | 22.9 / 56.6 / 97.6 cu ft |
| Length | 203.96 in | 204.49 - 204.72 in |
| Width | 79.56 - 79.95 in | 79.57 - 79.96 in |
| Height | 70.97 - 72.03 in | 69.57 - 70.67 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 42.6 / 40.03 / 38.23 in (w/o sunroof)
41.17 / 38.17 / 38.53 in (w/ sunroof) |
42.6 / 39.96 / 38.27 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 44.28 / 41.45 / 32.14 in | 44.29 / 41.46 / 32.13 in |
| Shoulder Room (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 62 / 62 / 57.94 in | 62.28 / 62.17 / 57.72 in |
| Hip Room (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 59.18 / 58.4 / 48.62 in | 58.7 / 58.58 / 48.62 in |
2026 GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Traverse: Trims
The SUVs in today's matchup each come with four diverse trim levels. First up, here are your GMC Acadia tiers:
- 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
- 2026 GMC Acadia AT4
- 2026 GMC Acadia Denali
- 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate
Moving on to the Chevy Traverse, you can choose from these models:
- 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT
- 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Z71
- 2026 Chevrolet Traverse High Country
- 2026 Chevrolet Traverse RS
As you'll see below, the Acadia is the more appealing option thanks to its high-end standard features and robust menu of available amenities. For instance, the Acadia comes standard with a 12-speaker Bose® premium audio system, active noise cancellation for the driveline and engine, and an HD Surround Vision Camera System – the Traverse has standard active noise cancellation for the driveline (not the engine), but you won't find these other appointments unless you climb its trim ladder.
2026 GMC Acadia vs. Chevrolet Traverse: Performance Specs
The GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse operate with the same powertrain, giving them identical output and performance specs. They use a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that makes 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. Each SUV has a maximum towing strength of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The 2024 and 2025 Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia also sported this turbo engine with the same specifications, meaning you can shop for a used GMC Acadia and enjoy the same performance.
2026 Chevy Traverse vs. GMC Acadia: Size & Interior Dimensions
Both models in our GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Traverse clash are similarly sized, providing nearly the same exterior and interior dimensions. One advantage the GMC Acadia holds in terms of measurements comes with its off-road-ready AT4 trim – this model boasts 1.36 extra inches of height compared to the tallest Chevy Traverse iteration, giving you a better view when heading off the beaten path.
Chevy Traverse vs. GMC Acadia: Features & Tech
One area where you'll find a big difference between the GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse SUVs is their standard features and technologies. For example, as we mentioned above, the GMC Acadia comes standard with a 12-speaker Bose® premium sound system. This can also be upgraded to a 16-speaker Bose® performance audio system in higher trims. The Chevy Traverse, on the other hand, starts you off with a 6-speaker setup, offering the 12-speaker Bose® arrangement – which is standard for the Acadia – as an available upgrade.
Other instances where the new GMC Acadia takes the lead for standard equipment include its HD Surround Vision system and active noise cancellation for the driveline and engine. The Traverse comes standard with active noise cancellation just for its driveline, and you'll have to shell out for a higher trim to get an HD Surround Vision system.
These are just a few examples of how the Acadia provides an elevated cabin experience when compared to its Traverse cousin. Contact our team to learn more about the elegant interior of the 2026 GMC Acadia.
Are you considering something a little smaller? Compare the GMC Terrain vs. GMC Acadia to see how the two-row Terrain stacks up against the beastly Acadia. Then, tour both models at Lorenzo Buick GMC.
Who Wins? GMC Acadia Compared to Chevy Traverse SUVs
While the 2026 GMC Acadia and 2026 Chevrolet Traverse share plenty of DNA, we think it's clear that the GMC SUV provides more in the way of amenities for discerning drivers. Are you ready to get inside the GMC Acadia? We're here to help make that dream a reality. We may even be able to sweeten the deal with one of your GMC Acadia lease deals, letting you enjoy this exceptional three-row sport-ute with flexible terms and lower-than-financing monthly payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV is better: the GMC Acadia or Chevy Traverse?
The better SUV for you depends on your preference for advanced tech and modern creature comforts. The GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse have the same engine, giving them identical horsepower, torque, and towing specs, but the GMC SUV is more feature-rich at the standard level with a Bose® audio system and HD Surround Vision. These appointments are only available on higher-level Traverse trims.
What are the size differences between the GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse?
The GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse are nearly the same size, and most differences would be considered negligible by the average driver. However, the GMC Acadia does hold one particular advantage – the Acadia AT4 model has about 1.36 inches of extra height compared to the tallest Traverse trim, giving drivers a better sightline, especially when navigating difficult terrain. If you enjoy trail exploration, we'd recommend the Acadia AT4.
Does the GMC Acadia offer more luxury than the Chevy Traverse?
The GMC Acadia is outfitted with more luxury amenities on its entry-level model than its Chevy competitor. The Chevy Traverse does have several of the same standard features like Adaptive Cruise Control and an eight-way power driver's seat, but passengers miss out on a standard HD Surround Vision Camera and a premium 12-speaker Bose® audio system unless they upgrade – both are standard on the Acadia Elevation.
What are the cargo space and seating capacities of the GMC Acadia vs. Chevy Traverse?
The GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse remain tied regarding cargo space, with both offering a little more than 97 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Behind the third row, each gets around 23 cubic feet of space. The biggest difference between the two is in seating arrangements; where the Acadia comes standard with eight-occupant seating, the Traverse starts out with accommodations for seven.
How do the 2026 GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse compare in terms of engine performance?
The 2026 GMC Acadia and 2026 Chevy Traverse come with the same engine: a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder. For both models, that engine makes 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. The two can also tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and come standard with FWD, while AWD is available. Although they perform identically, the Acadia gives you more advanced standard features.
1GM-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.
2Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
3EPA-estimated mpg for the 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with eight-speed automatic transmission FWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
4EPA-estimated 20 city/26 hwy 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder.