Comfort
If you like to do a lot of traveling, you’ll want to compare the details of the GMC Acadia vs Ford Explorer for comfort and convenience. You’ll find that the GMC model is quieter with a more upscale interior. The Acadia creates a spacious area for the first two rows, while the third row is slightly larger than in the Explorer. One of the big differences between the two is that the Acadia offers the option of captain’s chairs for the second row, while the Explorer limits you to the bench seat.
Both the Ford and GMC models include an eight-inch touchscreen as standard, along with in-vehicle Wi-Fi. GMC adds rear USB ports in the Acadia as opposed to front only for the base Explorer. You can get connected with both models through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay with Bluetooth as a standard feature. Want to find a new destination on your journey? GMC has you covered! Even the base trim offers the option to add navigation, while Ford doesn’t equip the base Explorer with navigational assistance.
Reliability
In the battle of GMC Acadia vs Ford Explorer, reliability is pretty similar. Acadia scores slightly higher with the JD Power Quality and Reliability ratings at 85 over the Explorer’s score of 83 out of 100. Quality focuses on owners’ initial responses, while dependability scores are based on answers from people who have owned the vehicle for three years. There haven’t been any recall notices for either model with the 2023 model year.
Cost
As for cost comparison, pricing depends on which trim level you choose. The Ford Explorer comes in higher with the top trim, about $6000 more than the top trim for the GMC Acadia. Both models are comparable when it comes to the base trim at around $36,000.
Interior and Exterior Dimensions
When comparing the GMC Acadia vs Ford Explorer, you’ll notice a slight difference in size. The Acadia is a little easier to maneuver through city traffic, with five fewer inches in length and three in width. Inside, the two models are comparable, with the rear legroom almost identical. The front seat legroom is also a close match, with the Acadia being slightly shorter—two inches less.
Horsepower
Another area where you will compare the Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia is the engine and its horsepower. Ford features a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine as its base option with 300 horsepower, while you can upgrade to the 3.3L hybrid V6 that comes with 318 horses. With the GMC Acadia, you can get a powerful V6 with 310 horsepower for the top trims with an efficient four-cylinder as the base that offers 228 horsepower.
Powertrain
One of the big differences in the GMC Acadia vs Ford Explorer discussion is the powertrain. Both models offer all-wheel drive, but the Ford SUV is a rear-wheel model as opposed to front-wheel drive for the Acadia. The GMC model is also more efficient on the highway at 26 mpg compared to 22 mpg for the Explorer. You’ll keep going further with a larger tank for the Acadia as well.
Utility
When looking at the Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia, both models include seven seats in the three rows. Both models can expand the cargo space by folding the rear seats down. The Acadia opens the area with up to 79 cubic feet of space for your gear and luggage.
The two models offer almost identical warranties with the new model. One big difference is that GMC includes one year of free maintenance, which you won’t find with Ford.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to choosing between the 2023 GMC Acadia vs Ford Explorer, the choice depends on what you’re looking for. You’ll find the Acadia to be a luxurious, quiet ride, while the Explorer is more rugged.
To see the newest GMC Acadia in person, you can visit Bentley Buick GMC to test drive one of our trucks for sale in Huntsville, AL. Our sales team will show you the top features of this SUV and help you customize it with the options and packages that make it work for you and your family. Stop in for a test drive today, or check it out online.
