2025 Hyundai Palisade SE vs 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
$6,500 less vs 37 more hp and 64 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,500 price gap, 291 vs 328 hp, 21 vs 21 MPG.
The Palisade SE leads on $6,500 less. The Acadia Elevation leads on 37 more hp, 64 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 3 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 3 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,200 | $45,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | No published data |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,356 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 120.9" |
| Length | 196.7" | 204.0" |
| Width | 77.8" | 79.6" |
| Height | 68.9" | 71.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE starts at $39,200, $6,500 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation at $45,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $115/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,500 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is the stronger pick when the extra 37 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
Both achieve 21 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation produces 328 hp, 37 more than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE at 291 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 7.3″ longer at 204.0″ vs 196.7″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Palisade comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The GMC Acadia offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims
Palisade vs Acadia: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $6,500 gap adds up to $115/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has 37 more hp (328 vs 291), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation adds 64 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Palisade vs Acadia
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE when you want to keep $6,500 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation when the extra 37 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $115/month more, the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or GMC or any dealership.