What To Know
- However, the Acadia offers more passenger space in the second and third rows, making it a better choice for families with taller children or those who need to accommodate more passengers regularly.
- The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia both come standard with a variety of technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
- The Ford Explorer has slightly better fuel efficiency than the GMC Acadia, with an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway compared to the Acadia’s 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.
When it comes to three-row SUVs, the Ford Explorer and the GMC Acadia are two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles offer plenty of space, features, and capability, but there are also some key differences between them. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the Ford Explorer vs Acadia to help you decide which one is the right choice for you.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Ford Explorer offers a variety of engine options, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. The Acadia, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and offers a 3.6-liter V6 as an upgrade. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Explorer and Acadia are comparable, with the Explorer slightly edging out the Acadia in terms of highway MPG.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Explorer and Acadia offer three rows of seating, with the Explorer offering slightly more cargo space behind the third row. However, the Acadia offers more passenger space in the second and third rows, making it a better choice for families with taller children or those who need to accommodate more passengers regularly.
Technology and Features
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia both come standard with a variety of technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. However, the Explorer offers a more comprehensive suite of available features, including a larger touchscreen, a premium audio system, and a 360-degree camera system.
Safety Features
Both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. However, the Explorer offers a few more advanced safety features as standard, such as blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure warning.
Off-Road Capability
The Ford Explorer is available with an optional four-wheel-drive system that provides improved traction and capability in off-road conditions. The Acadia, on the other hand, is only available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which makes it less capable in off-road situations.
Price
The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $33,245, while the GMC Acadia starts at $34,900. However, the Explorer offers more standard features and a wider range of available options, which can make it a better value for the money.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a three-row SUV with plenty of space, features, and capability, both the Explorer and Acadia are great choices. However, if you need more cargo space, more passenger space, or more advanced safety features, the Explorer is the better choice.
The Verdict: Ford Explorer
While both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are excellent three-row SUVs, the Explorer offers a better overall package. It has more standard features, more available options, and a more spacious interior. It’s also more capable off-road and has a lower starting price. If you’re looking for a three-row SUV that can do it all, the Ford Explorer is the way to go.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Ford Explorer or the GMC Acadia?
A: The Ford Explorer has slightly better fuel efficiency than the GMC Acadia, with an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway compared to the Acadia’s 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space, the Ford Explorer or the GMC Acadia?
A: The Ford Explorer has more cargo space behind the third row than the GMC Acadia, with 18.2 cubic feet compared to 12.8 cubic feet.
Q: Which vehicle has more passenger space, the Ford Explorer or the GMC Acadia?
A: The GMC Acadia has more passenger space than the Ford Explorer, with 118.9 cubic feet of passenger volume compared to the Explorer’s 113.7 cubic feet.