2026 Nissan Pathfinder S vs 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation
$6,200 less and 2 mpg better vs 44 more hp and 67 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,200 price gap, 284 vs 328 hp, 23 vs 21 MPG.
The Pathfinder S leads on $6,200 less, 2 MPG better. The Acadia Elevation leads on 44 more hp, 67 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 Nissan Pathfinder S | 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,500 | $45,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 284 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | No published data |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,482 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 120.9" |
| Length | 197.7" | 204.0" |
| Width | 77.9" | 79.6" |
| Height | 70.9" | 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 Nissan Pathfinder S and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S starts at $39,500, $6,200 less than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation at $45,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $109/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $174/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is the stronger pick when the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S rates 23 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S or 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation produces 328 hp, 44 more than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S at 284 hp. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 259 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S, AWD on the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation.
Is the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S bigger than the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation is 6.3″ longer at 204.0″ vs 197.7″. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S and 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S comes with 4WD, while the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses AWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims, GMC trims, GMC Acadia trims
The Pathfinder–Acadia Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Pathfinder and Acadia compare. The $6,200 gap adds up to $109/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 Nissan Pathfinder S runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has 44 more hp (328 vs 284), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation adds 67 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 259), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S, AWD on the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S saves roughly $174/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $870. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Pathfinder vs the Acadia
The 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S when you want to keep $6,200 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Acadia Elevation when the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $109/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 Nissan or GMC or any dealership.