If you’re trying to decide between the 2025 Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia, you’re not alone. These three-row SUVs are some of the most popular on the road today. Whether you’re looking for more space, stronger performance, or better family features, this side-by-side comparison should help make things a little clearer. Find out how the latest Explorer stacks up against the competition below!
Key Takeaways
- As of July 1, 2025, Explorer pricing runs from $41,380 to $55,835. Acadia pricing starts at $44,495 and climbs to $59,085.
- The Explorer focuses on tech and functional updates. The Acadia gets a full redesign for 2025.
- Ford offers more trims to choose from than GMC—that means there's a trim for just about everyone!
Updates and Pricing Breakdown: 2025 Explorer vs. 2025 Acadia
For 2025, Ford skipped a major redesign and zeroed in on smart tech. You now get BlueCruise hands-free driving as standard, plus a new Digital Experience setup with Google Assistant, integrated streaming, and improved navigation. The Explorer also got a few styling touch-ups with a new grille and lighting details.
Here’s the trim pricing for the 2025 Explorer:
- Active: $41,380
- ST-Line: $46,190
- Tremor (late availability): est. $52,000
- Platinum: $53,695
- ST: $55,835
GMC, on the other hand, did dig into a total redesign. Every 2025 Acadia now includes 18-inch wheels, seatbelt tensioners up front, a rear seat reminder, onboard vehicle health monitoring, and room for eight.
You can also add some extra style and comfort with available upgrades, like 22-inch wheels, illuminated trim pieces, roof crossbars, and optional front passenger lumbar support with the Elevation Premium Package.
Acadia pricing breaks down like this:
- Elevation: $44,495
- AT4: $56,385
- Denali: $59,085
2025 Explorer vs. 2025 Acadia Powertrain Options Compared
Ford offers flexibility with two engine choices, both mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Most models come with a 2.3L turbo four-cylinder delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Platinum and ST trims step up to a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel and all-wheel drive are available with both engines.
GMC goes with a one-size-fits-all approach. Every Acadia runs on a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder cranking out 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive is standard, though some trims offer all-wheel drive instead.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison Between the Explorer and Acadia
The Explorer holds a slight edge here, especially in city driving. Its mileage looks like this:
- 2.3L Turbo: 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway
- 3.0L V6: 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway
The Acadia’s numbers fall just behind, with ratings from 19 to 20 mpg city and 24 to 27 mpg highway, depending on the setup.
Interior Design and Features of the 2025 Explorer vs. 2025 Acadia
Inside the Explorer, you’ll find improved materials, updated color options, and a bit more breathing room for the front passenger. Getting into the third row is easier now, thanks to power-sliding second-row seats. And with the updated Digital Experience system, you’ve got new voice controls, more connectivity, and over-the-air updates built in. The Acadia’s cabin takes a clean, modern approach. It uses soft-touch materials and offers smart storage throughout. Bench seating in all three rows comes standard for an 8-seat layout. If you’d rather have captain’s chairs in the second row, they are also available.
Which SUV Fits Your Needs Best— the 2025 Explorer or 2025 Acadia?
The 2025 Ford Explorer stands out with its stronger engine lineup, more advanced tech, and thoughtful interior upgrades, all without stepping out of your budget comfort zone. If you’re leaning that way, your next step is simple: come see us and take one for a spin!