GMC Acadia vs Ford Explorer: SUV Face-Off
Trying to figure out the best midsize SUV? Our side-by-side look at the GMC Acadia Vs Ford Explorer will give you all the info you need. You’ll find out what makes each SUV special.
This way, you can choose the one that’s right for you. The GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer are top choices, each with its own perks for different types of drivers.
Let’s dive into what sets these SUVs apart, like their engines, comfort inside, and safety tech. The Acadia comes with a strong 2.5L turbo engine, pushing 328 horsepower and lots of towing power.
On the other hand, the Explorer has a 2.3L turbo engine. It gives you 300 horsepower and even more ability to tow. Knowing this will help you compare their space, gas mileage, and tech features for a better drive.
Get ready for a detailed comparison to see whether the GMC Acadia or Ford Explorer is the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Introduction To Midsize SUVs
Midsize SUVs have changed the game for American families. They offer big interiors, flexible seating, and strong performance. This makes them perfect for those who need space and power.
The Ford Explorer started the trend of 4-door mid-size SUVs in the 1980s. Today, models like the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer continue to offer comfort and the latest in technology.
When looking at midsize SUVs, consider how many people it can seat, how much stuff it can carry, and its towing power. The GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer can both fit up to seven people.
But, the space in the third row might be tighter for adults in the Acadia than in the Explorer. While the Acadia has a good base engine, the Explorer offers engines with more power for those who need it.
Think about what’s special in each model when choosing. Some might need more space for luggage on trips, others might want a strong towing ability.
Knowing what each midsize SUV offers helps you pick the right one for your family’s needs.
GMC Acadia Overview
The GMC Acadia shines as a midsize SUV, offering a mix of luxury and function. It’s powered by a 2.5L turbocharged engine with 328 horsepower and has an 8-speed automatic transmission.
This SUV is perfect for families who need technology and space. The interior features a large 15-inch infotainment screen that improves your drive.
It also has up to 98 cubic feet of cargo space, making sure you have enough room for everything. This SUV can seat up to eight people, making it great for trips with friends or family.
The Acadia comes with advanced features like Super Cruise™ for easier driving. It also has Speed Limit Assist and sees traffic signs, so you feel more secure.
Plus, its price is competitive, making it a solid choice against the Ford Explorer. It’s a luxury ride that meets your daily needs.
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 2.5 liters | 2.3 liters |
| Standard Horsepower | 328 hp | 300 hp |
| Cargo Space Behind 3rd Row | 12.8 cubic feet | 18.2 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Volume | 98 cubic feet | 87.8 cubic feet |
| Seating Capacity | 7 to 8 passengers | 6 to 7 passengers |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 28 mpg | Up to 28 mpg (Hybrid) |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 pounds | 5,600 pounds |
Ford Explorer Overview
For over 20 years, the Ford Explorer has been a top choice in the midsize SUV market. It provides various engine choices to match different driving needs.
The turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost® engine is a highlight, offering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This SUV can carry up to seven people, making it perfect for both family use and adventures.
The Ford Explorer is known for its roomy interior, with 152.7 cubic feet for passengers. Behind the first row, there’s a spacious 87.8 cubic feet for your stuff.
It also comes with a big 12-inch infotainment screen, making it both practical and modern. It suits daily commutes and family trips well, providing both versatility and function.
When looking at the price, the Ford Explorer offers great options in its category. With its feature-rich package, impressive specs, and comfy design, it stands as a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable midsize vehicle.
Performance Comparison
When looking at the GMC Acadia and the Ford Explorer, it’s key to compare their engines and towing abilities.
Knowing this helps you choose the car that matches what you want from your driving experience.
Engine Options and Horsepower
The GMC Acadia comes with a 2.5L turbocharged engine that has 328 horsepower. This power is good for everyday driving and merging onto highways. The Ford Explorer, however, starts with a 2.3L turbo engine with 300 horsepower.
But, if you need more punch, there’s a 3.0L engine making 400 horsepower. This makes the Explorer very strong when speeding up.
Towing Capacity Analysis
For those owning SUVs, towing capacity can be very important. The Ford Explorer Platinum shines here, able to tow up to 5,600 pounds. It’s perfect for moving boats, campers, or trailers.
The GMC Acadia focuses more on being a family car. It’s great at providing room and comfort rather than pulling heavy loads.
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged, 328 hp | 2.3L Turbo, 300 hp; 3.0L Turbo, 400 hp |
| Towing Capacity | Not specified | 5,600 lbs |
| Acceleration | Moderate responsiveness | Quick with available upgrade |
| Driving Dynamics | Comfort-oriented | Performance-focused |
Interior Features and Comfort
Midsize SUVs need great interiors for a top-notch driving experience. The GMC Acadia shines with premium stuff and a fancy vibe.
In contrast, the Ford Explorer opts for a straightforward cabin. It’s more about being practical for everyday use.
Design and Material Quality
The GMC Acadia’s inside has a classy look with quality materials. Soft surfaces and fine touches give it a luxury feel, perfect for long rides.
The Ford Explorer goes for a tough look with strong materials. It’s less about luxury and more for active families.
Seating Capacity and Arrangement
The GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer are great for families. The Acadia fits up to seven with comfy second-row captain’s chairs.
The Explorer can also fit seven and has an option for more seats. Both SUVs are roomy, making them great for trips.
Safety and Technology Features
In the midsize SUV market, safety and tech are key for buyers. The GMC Acadia stands out with top safety features and tech.
Both vehicles offer great driver assistance but in different ways, which appeal to different consumers.
Driver Assistance Technologies
The GMC Acadia has cool safety tech like Super Cruise for hands-free driving on some highways. This makes long trips easier. It also has Speed Limit Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition for extra safety.
On the other side, the Ford Explorer has the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite. It includes lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking to help avoid accidents.
Infotainment Systems Comparison
The GMC Acadia boasts a 15-inch touchscreen, making navigation and connectivity smooth. It beats the Ford Explorer’s 10.1-inch screen for easy access to features.
The Acadia also has an 11-inch display for driver info, larger than the Explorer’s 4.2-inch one. For audio, the Acadia has a 12-speaker Bose® system, upgradeable in the Denali trim.
The Ford Explorer offers a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen® system, great for those who love high-quality sound.
Fuel Efficiency: Which SUV Wins?
Choosing between the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer? Fuel efficiency matters. Both offer good MPG ratings that help you save. You’ll see the GMC Acadia’s fuel efficiency compared to the Ford Explorer’s.
GMC Acadia Fuel Economy
The GMC Acadia is impressive, with 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. It stands out in the midsize SUV category.
Its 2.5L engine offers 328 horsepower but still saves on fuel. You get power and efficiency, meaning fewer gas stops.
Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
The Ford Explorer has slightly lower efficiency, with 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. Its 2.3L engine delivers 300 horsepower.
Despite its strong performance, the Explorer uses more fuel than the Acadia. This may influence budget-aware buyers.
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| GMC Acadia | 22 | 28 |
| Ford Explorer | 21 | 27 |
Pricing & Value Analysis
When you look at the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer, it’s key to understand their starting prices and options. The GMC Acadia’s 2024 model starts at $39,995. The Ford Explorer for the same year begins at $38,500.
Base Prices and Options
Here’s how these two vehicles compare in terms of base prices and what you can add on:
| SUV Model | Base Price |
|---|---|
| 2024 GMC Acadia | $39,995 |
| 2024 Ford Explorer | $38,500 |
Both cars offer different trims and packages that affect the price. For example, the 2025 GMC Acadia Denali is expected to cost between $52,000 and $55,000.
The 2025 Ford Explorer’s Platinum trim could be between $55,000 and $60,000.
Long-term Ownership Costs
It’s important to think about long-term costs when picking a midsize SUV. Consider what you’ll pay upfront but don’t forget about fuel, insurance, and upkeep.
Both these SUVs come with strong warranties and service plans. This can add value over time and help protect your investment.
gmc acadia vs ford explorer: Dimensions Comparison
Comparing the GMC Acadia dimensions to the Ford Explorer can help you choose the right vehicle. Think about how easy it is to park and move around.
The Acadia is great if you want more room inside, perfect for families or if you need extra space. The GMC Acadia is 204 inches long, 87.9 inches wide, 71.4 inches tall, and sits on a 120.9-inch wheelbase.
This makes for a spacious inside. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, is a bit shorter at 198.8 inches long, 89.3 inches wide, and 69.9 inches tall. It has a 119.1-inch wheelbase.
Even though the Explorer is wider, the Acadia has more room for stuff with 23 cubic feet behind the third row. This grows to 97.5 cubic feet with the seats down.
The Acadia and the Explorer differ in how high they sit off the ground. The Acadia has a ground clearance of 7.3 inches, while the Explorer has 7.9 inches.
This small difference might matter depending on where you drive. Both of these SUVs can carry seven people.
But the way their insides are set up affects how much legroom everyone gets and how comfy it feels. When looking at the Ford Explorer size comparison with the Acadia, focus on what matches your needs.
Whether it’s how many people it carries, how much stuff it holds, or how easily it fits in parking spots, the size of these SUVs matters. Making this comparison helps you find the best SUV for you.
Reliability Ratings and Consumer Feedback
To understand the GMC Acadia, it’s vital to look at its reliability ratings and what owners say. This analysis offers insight into the vehicle’s performance over time and owners’ views on its pros and cons.
GMC Acadia Reliability Insights
The GMC Acadia’s reliability has both good and bad reviews. Owners like its roomy interior and comfort. But, they often mention engine noise and the layout of controls as downsides.
This feedback suggests the Acadia is great in some ways but could be better in others.
Ford Explorer Reliability Insights
The Ford Explorer, however, is known for being more reliable consistently. Owners say it has fewer problems, leading to more satisfaction.
Some feel its interior isn’t as fancy as the Acadia’s. Yet, its dependability gives it a strong position against rivals.
Driving Experience and Performance Factors
When looking at SUVs, how they drive and perform is super important. We’ll dive into how the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer do on the road. This understanding will guide you to the perfect SUV for you.
Acceleration and Handling
The GMC Acadia performance is solid, with a standard engine that has 228 horsepower. It may not sound as powerful as the Ford Explorer’s 300 horsepower, but it’s smooth for everyday driving.
The Acadia handles well, especially in the city, and an optional V6 engine makes it faster on highways. The Ford Explorer handling, on the other hand, is great for dynamic driving.
With nearly 100 more horsepower, it accelerates quicker right off the bat. If you love sporty driving, it’s the better choice.
The Explorer’s power also means better control on curves and rough land. While both SUVs listen well to driver commands, the Explorer is the champ in speed and quick moves.
Traction and Drivability
The GMC Acadia’s grip on the road is boosted by its all-wheel drive. This makes it a good pick for light off-roading or bad weather, offering a steady and safe ride.
The Ford Explorer, with its four-wheel drive, is outstanding for off-road trips. Its grip lets you conquer all kinds of ground confidently.
Both SUVs fit up to seven people, making them great for families. Yet, the Explorer can tow more—5,000 pounds—giving you more adventure options.
Conclusion
In comparing the GMC Acadia with the Ford Explorer, we see two very different SUVs. Each one appeals to different needs. The Acadia is great for families because it has more room inside.
This means more space for everyone’s head and legs, especially in the back row. It also has a bigger space for your stuff and smart features like the standard Rear Seat Reminder.
These make the Acadia convenient and user-friendly. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, has stronger performance. It boasts slightly more power and can tow more.
While it can hold a bit more with the back seats down, getting the same nice features as the Acadia might cost extra. This could influence which SUV you think gives you more for your money.
Your final choice depends on what you value the most. It’s important to look at technology, comfort, how the car drives, and price to find the best fit for you.
Both the Acadia and Explorer have their advantages. Knowing what these are can help you make the wisest choice between them.
FAQs
What are the main differences in engine options between the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer?
The GMC Acadia has a 2.5L turbo engine with 328 horsepower. On the other hand, the Ford Explorer starts with a 2.3L turbo engine that has 300 horsepower. It also has an option for a 3.0L engine, which can go up to 400 horsepower.
How do the safety features compare between the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer?
The GMC Acadia comes with Super Cruise for driving hands-free. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer features Co-Pilot360. This is a bunch of safety tech aimed at keeping drivers safe.
What is the fuel efficiency for both the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer?
The GMC Acadia’s fuel economy is around 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The Ford Explorer’s MPG varies by engine but is roughly 21 MPG city and 28 MPG highway with its base engine.
How do the cargo spaces of the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer compare?
The GMC Acadia has 97.5 cubic feet for cargo, more than the Ford Explorer’s 87.8 cubic feet. So, if you need a lot of cargo space, the Acadia is the better choice.
What is the price difference between the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer?
Starting at ,995, the GMC Acadia is a bit more expensive than the Ford Explorer, which begins at ,500. Keep in mind, prices can change based on features and the model you choose.
Are there differences in reliability ratings between the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer?
Some people have mixed feelings about the GMC Acadia, citing issues like engine noise and control layout. The Ford Explorer, though, usually gets better reviews for being reliable.
How do the dimensions of the GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer affect usability?
The size of these SUVs affects things like space inside, parking, and driving around town. The Acadia is a bit shorter and narrower, making it easier for city driving. The Explorer is longer and gives more room in the third row.
