2025 Toyota Highlander LE vs 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
$3,780 less and 3 mpg better vs 63 more hp and 9.1″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $3,780 price gap, 265 vs 328 hp, 24 vs 21 MPG.
The Highlander LE leads on $3,780 less, 3 MPG better. The Acadia Elevation leads on 63 more hp, 9.1″ longer. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Toyota Highlander LE | 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,920 | $45,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 gal | No published data |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,332 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 120.9" |
| Length | 194.9" | 204.0" |
| Width | 76.0" | 79.6" |
| Height | 68.1" | 71.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE starts at $41,920, $3,780 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation at $45,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $67/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,780 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is the stronger pick when the extra 63 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE rates 24 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation produces 328 hp, 63 more than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at 265 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 310 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE bigger than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 9.1″ longer at 204.0″ vs 194.9″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 8.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims, GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims
How the Highlander and Acadia Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE ($41,920) and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation ($45,700) solve similar problems in different ways. The $3,780 gap adds up to $67/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Highlander vs Acadia
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has 63 more hp (328 vs 265). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 8.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when you want to keep $3,780 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation when the extra 63 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $67/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 Toyota or GMC or any dealership.