2025 Acadia vs 2025 Explorer
Compare the 2025 GMC Acadia and the 2025 Ford Explorer
When it comes to choosing the perfect SUV for your next adventure, the 2025 GMC Acadia and the 2025 Ford Explorer are two top contenders, each offering a unique blend of power, comfort, and versatility. Whether you're looking for a sleek, family-friendly ride or a rugged vehicle with room for everything, both models deliver. However, the Acadia stands out with its refined design, thoughtful tech features, and smooth driving experience, making it a compelling choice for those who want both practicality and a touch of luxury. Let’s dive into how these two SUVs compare and why the 2025 GMC Acadia might just be the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Technology
When it comes to tech-savvy features, the 2025 GMC Acadia takes it up a notch with its sleek and user-friendly setup. Every Acadia comes with an impressive 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster and a massive 15.0-inch vertically oriented infotainment touchscreen, offering plenty of real estate for all your apps and navigation. Powered by Google built-in software, the infotainment system is fully customizable and comes with voice activation for hands-free convenience. Wireless charging is standard, and if you’re a music lover, the Acadia has a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, with an option to upgrade to a premium 16-speaker setup for an immersive sound experience.
The 2025 Ford Explorer also offers a solid tech package, with a 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen, Ford’s new Digital Experience software, and plenty of connectivity options like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. It even lets you stream videos or play games while parked.
While the Explorer is packed with tech, the Acadia brings a more refined, intuitive, and premium feel that elevates your driving experience.
Interior
The 2025 GMC Acadia impresses with its spacious, family-friendly interior designed for comfort and practicality. Its thoughtful layout includes ample cubby storage in the large center console and generous passenger room throughout the cabin. The Acadia offers flexible seating arrangements with room for up to eight passengers with the standard three-across bench in the second and third rows, or seven when you opt for second-row captain’s chairs on the AT4 or Denali trims. And with 23 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in use, it offers more room for your gear than most mid-size three-row SUVs.
The 2025 Ford Explorer also provides a comfortable ride, with updated interior materials and color schemes. The cabin enhances space for front passengers, and getting to the third row is made easier with a one-touch second-row seat adjustment. However, while the Explorer’s third row is accessible, taller passengers may find it cramped, with the seat positioned too low for long-term comfort. In terms of cargo, the Explorer offers decent space, with 18.3 cubic feet of space behind the third row.
However, the Acadia’s design, especially in the Denali trim with its power-folding third row, provides a more refined, spacious, and versatile interior.
GMC Acadia Interior
Ford Explorer Interior
Performance
When it comes to performance, the 2025 GMC Acadia stands out with its impressive 328-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering 326 lb-ft of torque for a confident and smooth ride. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling a weekend adventure, the Acadia offers a refined driving experience with optional all-wheel drive (standard on the AT4 trim), making it versatile for various road conditions. For off-road enthusiasts, the AT4 trim takes it up a notch with Active Torque Control, increased ground clearance, and a suspension tuned for rugged terrain. Plus, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the Acadia can handle your gear with ease. The addition of Super Cruise™, GM's hands-free driving assist, adds even more convenience for long drives.
On the other hand, the 2025 Ford Explorer offers a solid lineup of engines, including a turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder and a robust 3.0-liter V6 in the ST trim, which brings 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque for a quicker, more powerful ride.
Both vehicles have a 5,000-pound towing capacity, but the Acadia’s balance of everyday comfort and off-road capability, along with tech enhancements like Super Cruise™, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile, high-performance SUV.
Find a Deal on the Acadia in Houma, LA
When it comes to balancing style, space, and performance, the 2025 GMC Acadia is a standout choice for those who want it all. With a sleek design, a comfortable and spacious cabin, and a suite of advanced features, the Acadia is ready to take on any adventure; whether it’s a family road trip or a quick city getaway. Offering three rows of seating with ample legroom, a refined interior, and intuitive technology, the Acadia delivers a driving experience that’s both practical and enjoyable. While the 2025 Ford Explorer is certainly a strong contender, the Acadia's premium features, smooth ride, and customizable options make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a versatile, stylish, and tech-forward SUV.
Visit the Barker Buick GMC dealership in Houma, LA, to see the Acadia in person.