2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE vs 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
$9,600 less and 2 mpg better vs 51 more hp and 13.8″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,600 price gap, 277 vs 328 hp, 23 vs 21 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on $9,600 less, 2 MPG better. The Acadia Elevation leads on 51 more hp, 13.8″ longer. 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 Santa Fe SE | 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,100 | $45,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | No published data |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 120.9" |
| Length | 190.2" | 204.0" |
| Width | 74.8" | 79.6" |
| Height | 67.7" | 71.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 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 Santa Fe SE and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE starts at $36,100, $9,600 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation at $45,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $169/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $9,600 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $174/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is the stronger pick when the extra 51 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE rates 23 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation produces 328 hp, 51 more than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at 277 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 311 lb-ft.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 13.8″ longer at 204.0″ vs 190.2″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 10.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe trims, GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims
Santa Fe vs Acadia: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 $9,600 gap adds up to $169/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
Both run the same 2.5L I4 Turbo engine. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has 51 more hp (328 vs 277). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Santa Fe vs Acadia
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE saves roughly $174/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $870. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 13.8″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 10.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when you want to keep $9,600 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation when the extra 51 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $169/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.