The 2025 Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are two of the most popular three-row SUVs on the market. If you’re deciding between the two but you don't know which will be more in tune with your needs, we've made this 2025 Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia comparison to help you get a clearer picture of what each one offers.
Key Takeaways
- As of June 12, 2025, the Ford Explorer ranges from $41,380 to $55,835. The 2025 Acadia starts at $44,495 and tops out at $59,085.
- The Explorer leans into practical upgrades and tech enhancements, while the Acadia got a full redesign this year.
- The Explorer offers consumers more trims than Acadia.
Upgrades and Pricing to the 2025 Explorer vs. GMC Acadia
For 2025, Ford didn’t go for a full redesign on the Explorer—instead, it doubled down on what matters most. Most of the updates land in the tech department. BlueCruise hands-free driving is now standard, and the new Digital Experience system adds Google Assistant, built-in streaming, and smarter navigation to your daily drive. There are also a few subtle design tweaks, like an updated grille and lighting, that give the Explorer a fresh, modern look.
Here’s how the 2025 Explorer lineup looks price-wise:
- Active: $41,380
- ST-Line: $46,190
- Tremor (late availability): est. $52,000
- Platinum: $53,695
- ST: $55,835
The Acadia now comes standard with 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-season tires, front seatbelt tensioners for added safety, a rear-seat reminder, built-in vehicle health monitoring, and roomy 8-passenger seating.
GMC dealers also offer upgrades, such as bright 22-inch wheels with matching locks and caps, blacked-out badges, a light-up GMC logo up front, and all the extra touches like illuminated sills, rocker lighting, roof rails, and crossbars. You can even add front passenger lumbar support if you spring for the Elevation Premium Package.
Its trim prices are:
- Elevation: $44,495
- AT4: $56,385
- Denali: $59,085
Powertrain Variety in the 2025 Explorer vs. GMC Acadia
The Explorer gives you two solid engine choices, both paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic. Most trims come with a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. If you’re looking for more power, the ST and Platinum trims offer a turbocharged 3.0L V6 that cranks out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. You can go rear-wheel or all-wheel drive with either setup.
The Acadia takes a slightly different route with a single powertrain: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. It mates with an 8-speed automatic and comes standard with four-wheel drive, though some trims switch it up with all-wheel drive instead.
Fuel Economy in the 2025 Explorer vs. GMC Acadia
The Explorer’s four-cylinder gives it a slight lead, especially when tooling around on city streets. Here's how its mileage breaks down:
- 2.3L turbo: 21 city/28 highway
- 3.0L V6: 18 city/26 highway
The Acadia doesn't fare as well—it ranges from 19 to 20 mpg city and 24 to 27 mpg highway.
Interior Comfort and Features in the 2025 Explorer vs. GMC Acadia
The 2025 Explorer steps things up with upgraded materials, fresh color combos, and a roomier feel up front for the passenger. Getting into the third row is easier now, too—just tap a button, and the second-row seats slide forward. And with the new Digital Experience system, you get more connected tech, smarter voice control, and over-the-air updates.
The Acadia's cabin layout is clean and modern, with soft-touch materials and plenty of clever storage spots. Bench seats in all three rows come standard, so you get seating for eight without adding packages. If you’d prefer more space between passengers, captain’s chairs are available for a cozier seven-seat setup.
Which SUV Is Right for Your Family?
Between the two SUVs, the 2025 Ford Explorer just feels like the smarter pick. You’re getting stronger engine choices, smarter tech, and meaningful interior upgrades, all at a price that holds its own. If you’re curious to see how well it fits your life, come take the Explorer for a test drive!