Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia: SUV Showdown
When you compare the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia, you’re looking at two top mid-sized SUVs. This guide helps you understand their main features so you can choose the right one for you.
You’ll learn about their engine options, how much gas they use, and how much they can tow, along with their prices, safety ratings, and what people think about them.
The Ford Explorer starts at $36,860 and can carry up to seven people. It also has a lot of room for stuff, with 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia is a cozy choice but has its own pros and cons. We’ll show you the big differences and benefits, from the comfy insides to important performance numbers for your daily drive.
By the article’s end, you’ll better understand which SUV suits you best. Maybe you care most about towing things, having the latest safety features, or getting the newest tech.
Get ready to dive into the details of the Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia. Find the perfect vehicle for your adventures.
Overview of SUVs in The Market
There’s a big change in what people want from cars, with mid-sized SUVs leading the way. These vehicles are great for families and those who love adventure.
They offer lots of room and comfort. The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are perfect examples, fitting various needs and standing out among other vehicles.
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have features that families love, like lots of seats and storage. For big families or long trips, these cars are ideal.
The Explorer has 153 cubic feet for passengers, while the Acadia has 144 cubic feet. And when it comes to carrying stuff, the Explorer offers 87.8 cubic feet, and the Acadia has up to 98 cubic feet thanks to its new design.
Now, people want cars with the latest tech and safety stuff. The Ford Explorer has cool driving aids, like Auto High-Beam Headlamps.
The GMC Acadia comes with Super Cruise™ for driving without using your hands and a big touchscreen. Both cars show how important these features have become.
The fight for the top spot in mid-sized SUVs shows how these cars meet what people want today. They mix usefulness with the newest features.
As you look for a car, think about how these SUVs fit with what your family needs and likes.
Performance Comparison
When looking at SUVs, it’s important to compare engine choices and how far they go on a gallon of gas.
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are both solid choices, offering a good balance of power and fuel savings. This makes them appealing to different kinds of drivers.
Engine Options and Power Outputs
The Ford Explorer comes with a strong ford explorer engine specs starting with a 2.3L turbo four-cylinder engine that has 300 HP.
You can also get a 3.0L turbo V6 that ups the ante to 400 HP in the higher models. This range of power suits everyone, from those who want strength to those who prefer a more balanced ride.
The GMC Acadia, on the other side, starts with a 2.5L four-cylinder making 193 HP and a stronger 3.6L V6 that reaches 310 HP.
Its engine lineup is designed to meet various needs. But the Explorer often is the choice for those wanting more pep under the hood.
Fuel Efficiency Ratings
The Ford Explorer leads in gas mileage, boasting an EPA-estimated Ford Explorer fuel economy of 28 MPG on highways with its turbo engine.
The Acadia isn’t too far back, hitting up to 26 MPG on highways and 23 MPG for both city and highway driving combined.
These figures show the GMC Acadia MPG to be competitive, yet the Explorer slightly pulls ahead.
| Model | Engine Options | Horsepower | Fuel Economy (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 2.3L Turbo I4, 3.0L Turbo V6 | 300 – 400 HP | 20/28 MPG |
| GMC Acadia | 2.5L I4, 3.6L V6 | 193 – 310 HP | 22/26 MPG |
Comparing engine performance and fuel efficiency is key for SUV shoppers. They need to weigh power against gas mileage when picking between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia. Both models offer strong options.
Pricing and Value For Money
When looking at the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia, how much they cost plays a big role. Each SUV has unique features that impact their prices. This helps you decide which one fits your needs best.
Base Models Comparison
The starting price is a big deal when comparing these two. The Ford Explorer begins at $38,500, and the GMC Acadia is a bit more at $39,995.
The cost difference, $1,495, comes from what each model offers from the start. The Explorer has a powerful 300 horsepower engine. But the Acadia isn’t far behind, with 328 horsepower.
This gives the Acadia a better towing capacity, 5,000 pounds, versus the Explorer’s 5,300 pounds.
| Model | Base Price | Engine Power | Towing Capacity | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | $38,500 | 300 hp | 5,300 lbs | 87.8 cu ft |
| GMC Acadia | $39,995 | 328 hp | 5,000 lbs | 97.5 cu ft |
High-Trims and Additional Features
Higher trims show more difference in price and features. The Explorer has trims like the Platinum, at $54,100. It has luxury touches and the latest tech.
Meanwhile, the Acadia’s Denali trim, at about $56,100, focuses on comfort and modern features. Both SUVs offer upgrades that make driving better. They differ in utility and comfort.
This includes better safety, more connectivity, and nicer interiors. This makes your decision even more important.
| Trim Level | Ford Explorer Price | GMC Acadia Price | Notable Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer Platinum | $54,100 | N/A | Premium materials, advanced technology | |
| N/A | N/A | GMC Acadia Denali | $56,100 | Luxury styling, high-end features |
Comparing these trim levels and features helps you know which SUV is the best value for your money.
Safety Features and Ratings
Choosing a car involves looking at safety features closely. The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia both have great safety tools.
The Explorer has Ford Co-Pilot360™. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping help, and a rearview camera.
The GMC Acadia has the GMC Pro Safety Plus package. It adds things like Front Pedestrian Braking for better collision prevention.
Ford Co-Pilot360™ vs GMC Pro Safety Plus
The GMC Acadia has extra security features. It offers Speed Limit Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, unlike the Explorer. These help families, especially with teen drivers. They encourage safe driving habits.
Teen Driver Technology
The GMC Acadia also has special features for teen drivers. It limits certain functions for new drivers and gives parents feedback. This technology helps families feel secure.
Though the Ford Explorer doesn’t have teen-focused tech, it still values safety highly.
| Feature | Ford Explorer | GMC Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Lane-Keeping Assistance | Yes | Yes |
| Rearview Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Speed Limit Assist | No | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | No | Yes |
Interior Comfort and Space
Choosing between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia involves looking at their interiors. Both have lots of room for people and stuff, making them great for families or those who love to travel.
They come with different seating options for comfort on every trip.
Seating Capacity and Comfort
The Ford Explorer can fit up to seven people, making it perfect for big families or groups. Its cabin uses quality materials to make long drives more enjoyable. On the other hand, the GMC Acadia fits six people.
It’s also comfy but has a bit less space for passengers. The Explorer has 152.7 cubic feet for passengers, more than Acadia’s 143.8 cubic feet.
When it comes to luggage, the Explorer beats the Acadia with 18.2 cubic feet of space behind the last row, against the Acadia’s 12.8 cubic feet.
Infotainment Systems and Connectivity Options
Both cars have great tech to keep you connected during drives. The Ford Explorer has an 8-inch screen for infotainment, supporting Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. It’s easy to use.
The GMC Acadia comes with a bigger 16-inch screen but doesn’t connect as well. Each SUV ensures you can easily navigate and control your media while driving.
Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia: Key Differences
The design and utility of SUVs are crucial when choosing one. This section looks at the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia.
We’ll highlight their unique styles and what makes them stand out. This understanding helps decide which SUV fits your needs best.
Design and Aesthetics
The Ford Explorer has a sleek, modern look. It features bold lines and an aerodynamic shape. This design gives it a strong presence on the road while keeping it stylish.
In contrast, the GMC Acadia has a rugged, yet refined look. It stands out with its big grille and muscular form. This shows off its strength and function, appealing to those who want a tougher-looking SUV.
Storage Capacities
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia both offer great storage options. The Explorer shines with its third-row seats that fold flat. This creates a lot of space for different storage needs.
It’s perfect for active families or adventures. The GMC Acadia is designed with smart storage solutions. It has special compartments to keep everyday items organized.
Knowing these storage features helps pick the SUV that matches your lifestyle.
Driving Experience and Handling
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia make driving fun in different ways. The AWD systems of both cars change how they act on different roads. The Explorer’s Intelligent 4WD adapts fast to road changes.
The Acadia’s Active Torque Control makes it great at tackling various landscapes. Each SUV is strong, but they meet different needs for drivers.
All-Wheel Drive and Terrain Capability
The Ford Explorer shines with its AWD, especially in the Timberline model. It has 8.66 inches of ground clearance and a TORSEN® limited-slip rear axle. This means it can easily handle off-road adventures.
It also has seven drive modes for different situations. The GMC Acadia’s AT4 version has 7.2 inches of ground clearance and five drive modes.
Both SUVs are good on tough terrains, but the Explorer is outstanding for those who love adventure.
Ride Comfort and Noise Levels
Comfort is key in the Explorer and Acadia. The Explorer stands out with its roomy inside and quiet ride, thanks to excellent soundproofing. This SUV keeps road noise down, making trips more pleasant.
The Acadia also works well at keeping things quiet, but some say it’s not as silent as the Explorer. Still, both cars offer a comfortable ride on different roads. They make sure travelers enjoy their time inside.
| Feature | Ford Explorer | GMC Acadia |
|---|---|---|
| AWD System | Intelligent 4WD | Active Torque Control |
| Ground Clearance | 8.66 inches (Timberline) | 7.2 inches (AT4) |
| Drive Modes | 7 | 5 |
| Interior Sound Insulation | Excellent | Good |
| Passenger Capacity | 7 | 6 |
User Reviews and Feedback
Feedback from users is key in knowing how the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia actually perform. By looking at SUV owner reviews, you can tell how much people like these SUVs. This helps if you’re thinking about getting one of them.
Owner Satisfaction Ratings
Ratings from owners highlight areas like comfort, how the SUV drives, and its value. The Ford Explorer is well-known for its room and tech features.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia is praised for its performance and lighter build, making it easier to handle.
- About 70% of Ford Explorer owners are happy with their SUV.
- The GMC Acadia is valued for its flexibility, offering seating for seven and various models.
- People like the GMC Acadia’s mix of performance and gas mileage, with up to 26 mpg on highways.
Common Issues Reported
Both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have their issues, as shared by users. Knowing the Ford Explorer problems and GMC Acadia common issues is helpful. Some common concerns include:
| Model | Common Issues | Owner Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | Electrical problems, transmission hesitations | Mostly good feedback despite some issues |
| GMC Acadia | Fuel pump failures, problems with the infotainment system | Good reviews with some reports of problems |
Knowing about these issues, along with positive feedback, helps in managing your SUV. Reading reviews from current owners gives a full picture. This makes it easier to decide which SUV is right for you.
Conclusion
Looking at the Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia summary, think about what’s key for you in an SUV. The Explorer has a strong engine with 350 hp.
Meanwhile, the GMC Acadia isn’t far behind with 328 hp and is more efficient in some ways. If you need a lot of space for trips, the Acadia has more room behind each row.
The GMC Acadia shines with its safety features and comfort. It comes with a package that helps the driver and a reminder for the rear seat. This adds more safety and ease.
It also offers more space overhead and for your legs, great for big families or long travels. This SUV buying advice is here to help you choose wisely. Think about what matters to you: power, space, safety, or comfort.
Pick between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia based on your needs and lifestyle. Review your top priorities to see which SUV meets them better.
FAQs
What are the main differences between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia?
The Ford Explorer often comes with a stronger engine and more features. Meanwhile, the GMC Acadia is a bit better on gas and looks tougher. Both can carry up to seven people, making them great for families.
Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
The GMC Acadia is a bit better on gas than the Ford Explorer. It gets 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The Explorer gets 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway.
How do the safety features compare between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia?
Both SUVs come packed with safety tools. The Explorer has Ford Co-Pilot360™, which includes adaptive cruise control. The Acadia comes with GMC Pro Safety Plus. This adds things like Front Pedestrian Braking, making it safer.
What technology features are available in each SUV?
Both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have an 8-inch touchscreen. They work with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. You might also get Wi-Fi hotspots and top-notch sound systems in both, making rides more fun.
How does the interior of the Explorer compare to the Acadia?
Each SUV fits up to seven passengers. The Explorer feels roomier, but the Acadia focuses more on keeping things neat and comfy. The quality of materials and design also varies, catering to different tastes.
What is the pricing structure for these SUVs?
The Ford Explorer usually costs more from the start, thanks to its stronger engine and more features. Comparing what you get for the price can help decide which SUV offers more value.
Are there any common issues reported by owners for each model?
Both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia owners have noted some issues. These range from small annoyances to bigger problems. Knowing about these can help future buyers think about what owning one might be like.
