2026 GMC Acadia Denali vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35
On paper, the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali wins on $850 less, 26 more hp, 31 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $850 price gap, 328 vs 302 hp, 21 vs 25 MPG.
The Acadia Denali leads on $850 less, 26 more hp. The GLA AMG GLA 35 leads on 4 MPG better. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 GMC Acadia Denali | 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $57,700 | $58,550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 328 hp | 302 hp |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 23 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | No published data | 13.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,869 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 120.9" | 107.4" |
| Length | 204.0" | 174.6" |
| Width | 79.6" | 72.8" |
| Height | 71.4" | 62.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali starts at $57,700, $850 less than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 at $58,550. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali is the stronger pick when you want to keep $850 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali covers your needs; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $320/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 rates 25 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali produces 328 hp, 26 more than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 at 302 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 295 lb-ft. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo.
Is the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali bigger than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali is 29.4″ longer at 204.0″ vs 174.6″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali has a 13.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The GMC Acadia comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Mercedes-Benz GLA offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims, Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz GLA trims
- 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Acadia and GLA Stack Up
Two full-size SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali ($57,700) and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 ($58,550) solve similar problems in different ways. The $850 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Acadia vs GLA
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali has 26 more hp (328 vs 302), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali adds 31 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 295), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 saves roughly $320/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,600. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 costs more upfront but recovers some of that gap through lower running costs. At $320/year in savings, it takes about 2.7 years to close the $850 sticker difference.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali is 29.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali has a 13.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali when you want to keep $850 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG GLA 35 when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $320/year less on fuel. At $15/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 GMC or Mercedes-Benz or any dealership.