2026 GMC Acadia Denali vs 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring
68 more hp and 49 more lb-ft torque vs $6,535 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 328 vs 260 hp, 21 vs 22 MPG.
The Acadia Denali leads on 68 more hp, 49 more lb-ft torque. The Ascent Touring leads on $6,535 less. 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 | 2026 GMC Acadia Denali | 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $57,700 | $51,165 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 328 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 326 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 23 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | No published data | 19.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $2,000/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,590 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 120.9" | 113.8" |
| Length | 204.0" | 196.8" |
| Width | 79.6" | 76.0" |
| Height | 71.4" | 71.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali and 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring starts at $51,165, $6,535 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali at $57,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $115/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 the extra 68 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,535 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $91/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali or 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring rates 22 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali or 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali produces 328 hp, 68 more than the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring at 260 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 277 lb-ft. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali bigger than the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali is 7.2″ longer at 204.0″ vs 196.8″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali has a 7.1″ 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: GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Ascent trims
How the Acadia and Ascent Stack Up
Two full-size SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali ($57,700) and 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring ($51,165) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-6,535 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.
Powertrain: Acadia vs Ascent
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali has 68 more hp (328 vs 260). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali adds 49 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 277), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring saves roughly $91/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $455.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali has a 7.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali when the extra 68 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring when you want to keep $6,535 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring covers your needs.
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 Subaru or any dealership.