If you're shopping for a three-row mid-size SUV, the 2026 GMC Acadia and 2026 Ford Explorer are two names you're likely weighing. Both offer plenty of passenger space and family-friendly features, but when you look at the details, the Acadia stands out as the stronger all-around choice for drivers in Opelika.

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Introduction

If you're shopping for a three-row mid-size SUV, the 2026 GMC Acadia and 2026 Ford Explorer are two names you're likely weighing. Both offer plenty of passenger space and family-friendly features, but when you look at the details, the Acadia stands out as the stronger all-around choice for drivers in Opelika.

Performance

The 2026 GMC Acadia is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. That's a confident powerplant for daily commuting, highway driving, or weekend adventures. The Acadia also offers a Traction Select System with up to six available drive modes, giving you meaningful control over how the SUV responds to different road conditions.

Capability and Towing

Both vehicles are capable haulers, but the Acadia holds its own with a max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the Trailering Package. Whether you're pulling a boat or a small camper, the Acadia gives you the confidence to do it. The available Active Torque Control AWD system - standard on the AT4 trim - further enhances the Acadia's ability to handle varied terrain, including an AT4-exclusive Terrain Mode for off-road situations.

Interior Comfort and Space

The Acadia seats up to eight passengers across three rows, making it a true family hauler. Cargo volume reaches up to 97.5 cubic feet behind the first row with the second- and third-row seats folded, and 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row with all seats up. Depending on your trim, interior options range from cloth seating in the Elevation to full-grain leather massaging front seats in the Denali Ultimate. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard across all trim levels.

Technology

The Acadia's 15-inch diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment touchscreen is a standout feature, offering Google built-in compatibility, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and voice-activated technology. Drivers also benefit from an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center standard across all trims. The available 8-inch diagonal configurable Head-Up Display projects key information onto the windshield so you can keep your eyes on the road. For those who want the ultimate in driver convenience, available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology lets you go hands-free on a growing network of compatible roads - a feature that makes the Acadia a genuinely forward-thinking mid-size SUV.

Safety

The 2026 GMC Acadia comes standard with over 19 safety and driver assistance features across every trim level. That list includes Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Reverse Automatic Braking, among others. The Acadia also offers nine camera views, including HD Surround Vision and a Rear Camera Mirror, to help you navigate tight spaces with confidence.

Available Trims

The 2026 GMC Acadia is offered in four trims: Elevation, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate. The Elevation starts at $43,800 and covers the essentials with a strong feature list right out of the gate. The AT4 adds an off-road-tuned suspension, lifted ride height, and all-terrain tires starting at $52,500. The Denali brings luxury appointments including leather-appointed seats and premium Galvano Silver accents starting at $55,900. At the top, the Denali Ultimate includes Super Cruise, a Bose 16-speaker Performance Series sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and full-grain leather massaging front seats starting at $63,100.

Find Your Ideal 2026 GMC Acadia Today

When you compare the 2026 GMC Acadia to the 2026 Ford Explorer side by side, the Acadia delivers a more complete package - from its robust standard safety suite and versatile three-row interior to its available Super Cruise technology and off-road-ready AT4 trim. If you're ready to find the right Acadia trim for your lifestyle, stop in and explore your options today.

Glynn Smith GMC

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600 COLUMBUS PWY
OPELIKA, AL 36801

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