2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate Review
The 2026 GMC Acadia arrived with new dimensions, a fresh design language, and a more premium feel. Many people were already impressed with the redesign, but the brand decided to take luxury even further with the new Denali Ultimate trim. This review breaks down everything from the engine specs and exterior details to the interior comfort, third row space, cargo capacity, and on road performance.
Engine and Specifications
Every 2026 Acadia, including the Denali Ultimate, comes with the same powertrain. Here is a quick spec summary:
2.5 litre turbocharged four cylinder engine
328 hp and 326 lb ft torque
8 speed automatic transmission
Available all wheel drive
Combined fuel economy (AWD): 21 MPG
Base price: approx 44,000 dollars
Price of Denali Ultimate tested: just under 68,000 dollars
Compared to rivals in the three row midsize segment, the power output is higher. Many competitors sit in the 275 to 285 hp range. However, the Acadia does not offer a hybrid option, so fuel economy remains average.
Safety and Technology
All trims of the Acadia come with the full suite of active safety systems. The Denali Ultimate adds GM’s advanced hands free highway driving system.
Safety features
Forward collision alert
Lane keep assist
Automatic emergency braking
Blind spot monitoring
Adaptive cruise control
Super Cruise standard on Denali Ultimate
Exterior Design
The Denali Ultimate adds several exterior touches that separate it from the rest of the lineup.
Key exterior highlights
Vader Chrome finish on the grille and badging
Full LED headlights with projector units
Dynamic turn indicators
LED fog lamps
22 inch alloy wheels with an exclusive finish
Body coloured arches and gloss black lower body trim
Chrome window surrounds and roof rails
Premium LED tail lamps and quad exhaust outlets
Standard 5,000 lb towing capacity
The overall length is 204 inches, making the Acadia one of the biggest vehicles in its class. The rear design gets a blacked out center section and strong Denali branding.
Interior Design and Quality
This is where the Denali Ultimate truly stands out. GMC has added several exclusive touches to give the cabin a luxury SUV feel.
Seat and upholstery details
Genuine leather with unique stitching
Woodland Mahogany colour scheme
Piping, cross stitching, embossed mountain pattern
Denali Ultimate branding
Front seat massage function (lumbar only)
Memory seats for driver
Dashboard and trims
Leather wrapped dashboard with stitching
Open pore wood with Denali Ultimate etching
Suede headliner
Large wood accents throughout the cabin
Excellent fit and finish
Second Row Comfort
The Acadia has always been known for its strong second row space. With the Denali Ultimate, the luxury factor increases.
Second row highlights
Captain seats standard (except on base trim)
Legroom: 41.5 inches
Headroom: 40 inches
Measured knee room: 9.5 inches
Sliding and reclining seats
Heated second row seats
Two USB C ports
Household style power outlet
Ceiling mounted AC vents
There are no sunshades for the second row, which feels like a missing feature at this price.
Third Row Comfort
The third row is bigger than many rivals and offers genuinely usable space.
Third row measurements
Legroom: 32 inches
Headroom: 38 inches
Premium leather seats
Three seat layout
USB C port
Cup holders
Ceiling mounted vents
The third row in the Acadia is better than models like the Acura MDX and close to leaders like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Hyundai Palisade.
Cargo Capacity
Cargo capacity is one of the Acadia’s strongest points. The numbers are among the highest in the segment.
Cargo space
Behind third row: 23 cu ft
Behind second row: 57 cu ft
Maximum: 97 cu ft
Measured cargo dimensions
Maximum length: 89 inches
Length behind second row: 53 inches
Length behind third row: 22 inches
Cargo opening width: 49 inches
Cargo height: 32 inches
Load in height: 32 inches
You also get a large storage compartment under the floor and a spare tyre.
The tailgate is hands free and power operated. Denali Ultimate also has power folding third row seats.
Technology and Features
The Denali Ultimate is packed with premium features.
Key tech features
11 inch digital instrument cluster with multiple layouts
Head up display
360 degree camera standard on all trims
15 inch touchscreen infotainment system
Built in Google Maps and Google Assistant
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
16 speaker Bose Performance Series sound system
Wireless phone charging
Column mounted electronic gear selector
Three zone automatic climate control
Ventilated front seats on Denali and Denali Ultimate
Heated second row seats
Rear camera digital mirror standard
Panoramic sunroof standard on Denali Ultimate
On Road Performance
Acceleration and engine feel
The 2.5 turbo engine delivers strong acceleration thanks to its high torque output. However, the engine is slightly coarse under heavy throttle, which affects cabin quietness.
Transmission
8 speed automatic
Smooth and keeps the engine in its power band
Ride quality
The Denali Ultimate has frequency based dampers paired with 22 inch wheels. The ride is comfortable despite the big wheels, though sharp bumps are noticeable.
Cabin noise
Tested sound level at 55 mph: 60.5 dB
This is slightly louder than some rivals, likely due to engine noise and windy conditions during testing.
Fuel economy
FWD: 20/26/22 MPG
AWD: 20/23/21 MPG
Rivals with hybrid options offer better efficiency.
Verdict
The 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate is built for buyers who want a full size feel, luxurious materials, strong power, and a spacious interior without jumping to a premium brand. It delivers standout cargo capacity, great second row comfort, and an interior that genuinely feels special. The only drawbacks are engine noise and the luxury-level pricing.
If you want the most premium version of the new Acadia, the Denali Ultimate certainly lives up to its name.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate use?
The 2026 Acadia Denali Ultimate uses a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
What is the fuel economy of the Acadia Denali Ultimate?
With all-wheel drive, the combined fuel economy rating is 21 MPG.
How much does the base 2026 Acadia cost?
The base 2026 Acadia is priced at around US$ 44,000.
What makes the Denali Ultimate exterior special?
The Denali Ultimate features a Vader Chrome finish on the grille and badging, full LED headlights, dynamic turn indicators, LED fog lights, quad exhaust outlets, and exclusive 22-inch alloy wheels.
What are the interior highlights of the Denali Ultimate trim?
The cabin includes Woodland Mahogany leather seats with contrast stitching, mountain-etched detailing, massaging front seats, memory function, a suede headliner, and open-pore wood trim.
What infotainment and sound system comes in the Denali Ultimate?
It features a 15-inch touchscreen with Google Assistant, Google Maps, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 16-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system is also included.
How much space is in the second and third rows?
The second row offers about 41.5 inches of legroom and 40 inches of headroom. The third row provides around 32 inches of legroom and 38 inches of headroom, plus leather seats and a USB-C port.
What is the cargo capacity of the 2026 Acadia?
The cargo capacity is 23 cu ft behind the third row, 57 cu ft behind the second row, and up to 97 cu ft with all seats folded. A hands-free power tailgate and underfloor storage are also included.
What is the ride quality and noise level like?
The frequency-based suspension provides a smooth ride even with 22-inch wheels. Noise levels measured at 55 mph were 60.5 dB, slightly higher than some luxury rivals.
Does the Denali Ultimate include driver-assist or hands-free driving features?
Yes, the Denali Ultimate includes Super Cruise hands-free highway driving as standard, while all trims receive multiple active safety systems.
What is the starting price of the Denali Ultimate trim?
The Denali Ultimate starts around US$ 63,000. With all-wheel drive and destination fees, the tested model was priced just under US$ 68,000.
