The 2026 Dodge Durango and 2026 GMC Acadia represent two completely different philosophies in the three-row SUV segment. While the Durango is essentially a muscle car with a third row, the Acadia is a modern, tech-focused crossover designed for efficiency and interior flexibility. Which one is better for you? Find out here as we walk you through their features.
Key Takeaways:
- The Durango moves to an all-V8 lineup for 2026 after retiring the V6.
- The Durango tows a whopping 8,700 pounds max, nearly double the Acadia's 5,000 pounds.
- The Acadia offers Super Cruise hands-free driving, while the Durango stays old school with a driver-centric cockpit and traditional controls.
2026 Updates in the Dodge Durango vs. the GMC Acadia
Dodge retired the V-6 from the lineup in '26. That's right--even the entry-level Durango GT now starts with the powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. Move up to the R/T trim and the 6.4-liter 392 V-8 is your power source. Speaking of the R/T, it gets a Blacktop Redline, which adds 20-inch gloss-black wheels, blacked-out badges, and SRT-inspired aero parts.
The 2026 Acadia focuses on premium convenience following its recent overhaul. New for this year is a standard digital rearview mirror and the addition of the Denali Ultimate trim. This top-tier model pushes the Acadia into the luxury bracket with its 22-inch wheels and a standard 16-speaker Bose audio system.
What Is a Major Difference Between the 2026 Dodge Durango and the GMC Acadia?
The engine bay is where these heavyweights really diverge. The entry-level Durango features a 360-hp 5.7L HEMI V8 for the two bottom trims. Models from the R/T up feature a 475-hp 6.4L 392 V8. Both pair with an 8-speed automatic and rear- or all-wheel drive.
Every Acadia trim uses a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 328 horsepower. While it lacks the V8 growl, it offers a more car-like power delivery for daily commuting. It also mates with an eight-speed automatic and rear- or all-wheel drive.
Powertrains
| 2026 Dodge Durango |
2026 GMC Acadia |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 or 6.4L 392 V8 |
2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| 8-speed automatic transmission |
8-speed automatic transmission |
| RWD standard, AWD available |
RWD standard, AWD available |
Towing Capability Dodge Durango vs. GMC Acadia
If your lifestyle involves heavy trailers or boats, the Durango is the clear choice in this category. When equipped with the Tow 'n Go package, it hits a best-in-class 8,700 lbs.
The Acadia is no slouch for a crossover, offering a standard 5,000-pound towing capacity, but it can't match the heavy-duty cooling and suspension hardware found in the Dodge.
What Technology Is Found in the 2026 Dodge Durango?
The Dodge Durango uses a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 System. While smaller than GMC's screen, buyers praise it for being one of the most intuitive interfaces on the market. And it prioritizes physical buttons for climate and volume--a preferred layout for many drivers.
The GMC Acadia is no slouch here either. It features one of the most modern cabins in its class, anchored by a 15-inch vertical touchscreen. It runs Google Built-in and offers Super Cruise, allowing for hands-free driving on over 750,000 miles of North American highways.
Why Should I Buy a 2026 Dodge Durango?
The 2026 Dodge Durango stays true to its reputation as a capable powerhouse. In a world of four-cylinder crossovers, it's the unapologetic choice for families who want real performance. See why the Durango is still the king of the muscle SUVs. Contact us today at Coleman Motors!