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Blog > 2026 Acadia vs Mazda CX-90: 3 Reasons the GMC Stands Out

2026 Acadia vs Mazda CX-90: 3 Reasons the GMC Stands Out

Saskatchewan families comparing three-row SUVs often land between the 2026 GMC Acadia and the 2026 Mazda CX-90. Both offer standard AWD, seating for up to eight, and a real third row. The differences show up where they matter most: cargo space, towing reach, and the technology you get without climbing the trim ladder. On those dimensions, the Acadia holds a consistent edge.

The CX-90 is offered in two powertrains, a mild-hybrid inline-six (MHEV) and a plug-in hybrid four-cylinder (PHEV), each with its own capability limits. The Acadia runs one turbocharged engine across the entire lineup, which makes the capability story straightforward from the start.

2026 Acadia vs. 2026 CX-90: Key Specs at a Glance

Feature2026 GMC Acadia2026 CX-90 MHEV
Cargo, max (behind row 1)2,761 L2,101 L
Cargo behind row 21,623 L1,133 L
Cargo behind row 3651 L423 L
Max towing (equipped)5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – MHEV GT-L only
Standard touchscreen15 in – all trims10.25 in (GS) / 12.3 in (GS-L+)
Standard audio12-speaker Bose (Elevation through Denali)8-speaker (GS) / 12-speaker (GT+)
Engine2.5L Turbo I43.3L Turbo I6
Horsepower328 hp – regular fuel, all trims280 hp (GS) / 340 hp (GT-P, premium fuel)
Standard AWDYes – all trimsYes – all trims

Power Without a Premium Fuel Requirement

The Acadia’s 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder produces 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque on regular gasoline, paired with an 8-speed automatic. That output is consistent across every Acadia trim, Elevation, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate, with no fuel-grade asterisk.

The CX-90 MHEV GS starts with a 3.3L turbocharged inline-six at 280 hp and 332 lb-ft on regular fuel. That’s 48 fewer horsepower than the Acadia at the entry point. The top MHEV GT-P reaches 340 hp and 369 lb-ft, but that peak requires 91-octane premium fuel; on regular 87-octane the output drops to 319 hp. The Acadia delivers 328 hp on regular fuel at every trim, with no trade-off to manage at the pump.

Towing Range and Off-Road Reach

When equipped with the available trailering package, the Acadia tows up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). The CX-90 MHEV can also reach 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), but only on the MHEV GT-L trim with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories. Trims below that level, and every CX-90 PHEV model, stay at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).

The AT4 adds a layer of capability the CX-90 has no equivalent for: Active Torque Control AWD, Hill Descent Control, a lifted suspension, steel front and underbody skid plates, and 18-inch all-terrain tires. For drivers who encounter unpaved roads seasonally, the AT4 is purpose-built for it.

Cargo Room Across All Three Rows

This is the Acadia’s clearest advantage. Behind the third row, the Acadia carries 651 L; the CX-90 offers 423 L. That 228-litre gap is felt when you’re loading sports gear, a stroller, or groceries with all three rows occupied.

Fold the third row and the Acadia opens to 1,623 L against 1,133 L in the CX-90. At maximum, all rows folded, the Acadia reaches 2,761 L versus the CX-90’s 2,101 L. In every seating configuration, the Acadia carries more.

Technology From the First Trim Up

Every 2026 Acadia comes standard with a 15-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch Driver Information Centre. There is no entry-level trim with a smaller screen to step past. The Bose 12-speaker audio system is standard on Elevation through Denali; the Denali Ultimate steps up to a 16-speaker Bose performance system with an 8-inch configurable Head-Up Display.

The CX-90 MHEV GS starts with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch instrument cluster. The larger 12.3-inch display arrives at GS-L. While the CX-90 GT gains a 12-speaker Bose system, reaching that audio level requires a trim step that costs more than accessing comparable Acadia content. For drivers who want a large screen and premium audio without negotiating trim levels, the Acadia makes it simpler.

Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology is available on Acadia from Elevation through Denali and standard on Denali Ultimate, where a 3-year plan is included.

Which Three-Row SUV Fits Your Family?

The CX-90 PHEV’s 43 km of electric range appeals on paper, but it trades towing capacity, capped at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on every PHEV trim, and noticeably less cargo volume for that electrified powertrain. Families who need to tow a boat, a camper, or a loaded trailer will find that ceiling limiting.

For Saskatchewan families who want 328 hp on regular gasoline, 2,761 L of maximum cargo volume, 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) of towing capability, and a 15-inch touchscreen without trim-shopping, the Acadia covers all of it. Step to the AT4 for off-road hardware the CX-90 cannot match at any trim level, or to Denali Ultimate for full leather seating, a 16-speaker sound system, and standard Super Cruise. The starting point is already strong; what changes is how far above it you want to go.

Find Your 2026 Acadia at Mann-Northway Chevrolet Buick GMC

The 2026 GMC Acadia delivers 2,761 L of maximum cargo volume, up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) of towing capacity, a 15-inch standard touchscreen, and 328 hp on regular gasoline, all with standard AWD across every trim.

Visit Mann-Northway Chevrolet Buick GMC in Prince Albert to explore the full Acadia lineup and book a test drive.