2026 Hyundai Tucson SE vs 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
$14,750 less and 5 mpg better vs 141 more hp and 148 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $14,750 price gap, 187 vs 328 hp, 26 vs 21 MPG.
The Tucson SE leads on $14,750 less, 5 MPG better. The Acadia Elevation leads on 141 more hp, 148 more lb-ft torque. 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 Hyundai Tucson SE | 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,950 | $45,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | No published data |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 120.9" |
| Length | 182.7" | 204.0" |
| Width | 73.4" | 79.6" |
| Height | No published data | 71.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | 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 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE starts at $30,950, $14,750 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation at $45,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $260/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $14,750 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $385/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 141 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE rates 26 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation produces 328 hp, 141 more than the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE at 187 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE bigger than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 21.3″ longer at 204.0″ vs 182.7″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 12.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Tucson 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 Tucson trims, GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims
The Tucson–Acadia Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tucson and Acadia compare. The $14,750 gap adds up to $260/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has 141 more hp (328 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation adds 148 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE saves roughly $385/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,925. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Tucson vs the Acadia
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 21.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 12.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE when you want to keep $14,750 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation when the extra 141 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $260/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.