2025 GMC Acadia vs. Ford Explorer

The 2025 GMC Acadia and 2025 Ford Explorer are top choices for family-oriented SUVs. These three-row, midsize SUVs are great all-rounders that excel in almost every department, so it can be difficult to choose between them. By looking at this head-to-head comparison of the GMC Acadia vs. Ford Explorer, you’re sure to find the perfect SUV for you.

Introduction to the 2025 Models

For the 2025 model year, the GMC Acadia gains several updates that enhance its capability, functionality, and appearance. The entry-level Elevation trim now features 18-inch dark gray wheels for a more sophisticated look and an available second-row bench seat, increasing its seating capacity to eight. The Trailering and OnStar Basics packages are now standard across the board.

For 2025, the Ford Explorer offers a more simplified four-trim lineup. It also features exterior and interior styling updates, an upgraded infotainment system, and available Blue Cruise hands-free driving.

Pricing and Value

It’s important to compare prices when planning your budget to get the best value for your money. The 2025 Acadia has a starting MSRP of $42,900, while the Ford Explorer is slightly less expensive at $39,755.

Although it costs more than the cheapest Explorer, the Acadia may provide more value than its rival. It boasts a more powerful engine, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 12-speaker premium audio system. In contrast, the Ford SUV comes standard with cloth upholstery and a six-speaker sound system. At Steve Austin’s Auto Group, you can also save money on a new Acadia if you trade in your old car.

Performance and Efficiency

If you’re looking for a new car, compare the specifications to determine which model better meets your needs. If you don’t need a performance-oriented engine, the GMC may be the better option. Every Acadia has a 2.5-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that delivers 328 horsepower. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth and precise shifts.

The Ford Explorer, with its 300-horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, isn’t as powerful as the Acadia. However, the Explorer also offers an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 rated at 400 horsepower, and both engines come with a 10-speed automatic transmission for superior performance and efficiency.

Fuel Economy

The GMC Acadia is rated at 20/27 mpg (city/highway) with front-wheel drive and 19/24 mpg with all-wheel drive. The Ford Explorer is slightly more fuel efficient at 20/29 mpg with rear-wheel drive and 20/27 mpg with all-wheel drive.

Interior Comfort and Features

If you plan to use your new vehicle as a family or cargo hauler, looking at the interior can help you choose the right one. The 2025 GMC Acadia is a great choice for large families, seating up to eight passengers compared to the Ford’s seven seats.

The Acadia also has the upper hand in legroom, providing plenty of space in the first two rows and an adult-friendly third row. The Explorer also has expansive legroom in the front and second rows, but its third row is only roomy enough for kids.

Tech and Infotainment Features

In a car comparison by features, the GMC Acadia comes out on top. The SUV offers a 15-inch touch-screen display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless device charger, a Wi-Fi hot spot, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system as standard equipment. The base Ford Explorer has a smaller 13.2-inch touch screen and a six-speaker sound system, but it doesn’t have a wireless charger.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The GMC Acadia has a bold and imposing exterior, with its boxy shape and truck-like front end. The Ford Explorer, meanwhile, features a steeply raked windshield, a downward-sloping roof, and a prominent shoulder line for a more athletic look.

Dimensions and Cargo Space

It’s essential to compare the size of vehicles, as it can impact their cabin space. If you’re looking for family-oriented vehicles, a vehicle size comparison is especially important. The GMC Acadia’s exterior measures 203.9 inches long, 79.5 inches wide, and 70.9 inches high. The Explorer is slightly smaller than the GMC, measuring 198.7 inches long, 78.9 inches wide, and 69.6 inches tall.

If you frequently need to transport cargo, you’ll be better off getting the Acadia. This GMC model gives you a whopping 97.5 cubic feet of storage space with both back rows folded, while the Explorer only provides 87.8 cubic feet.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer are equipped with an extensive list of standard driver-assistance technologies to keep you safe. These features include forward collision warning, pedestrian monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure alert, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alerts, and blind-spot monitoring. For enhanced safety, both SUVs offer upgrades such as a 360-degree camera system and a hands-free driving system.

Test-Drive the 2025 GMC Acadia in Bellefontaine, Ohio

When comparing the Ford Explorer vs. GMC Acadia, it’s important to consider your personal needs and preferences. To find the right car for you, look at the areas that matter most to you, whether that’s performance, space, or safety tech. For example, if you need to ferry around your family, the Acadia may be a better fit for you, as it provides more passenger and cargo space. If you’re in the Bellefontaine, Ohio, area and are interested in getting the 2025 GMC Acadia, visit us at Steve Austin’s Auto Group for a test-drive. Contact us today to schedule a visit.