2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
$15,710 less and 4 mpg better vs 141 more hp and 140 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $15,710 price gap, 187 vs 328 hp, 25 vs 21 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $15,710 less, 4 MPG better. The Acadia Elevation leads on 141 more hp, 140 more lb-ft torque. 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,990 | $45,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | No published data |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 120.9" |
| Length | 184.6" | 204.0" |
| Width | 73.2" | 79.6" |
| Height | 66.7" | 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 | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $15,710 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation at $45,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $277/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $15,710 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $320/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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S rates 25 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation produces 328 hp, 141 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at 187 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 19.4″ longer at 204.0″ vs 184.6″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 10.1″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims
- 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the CX-5 and Acadia Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S ($29,990) and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation ($45,700) solve similar problems in different ways. The $15,710 gap adds up to $277/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: CX-5 vs Acadia
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 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 140 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 186), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S saves roughly $320/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,600. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 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 is 19.4″ 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.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $15,710 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation when the extra 141 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $277/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 Mazda or GMC or any dealership.