Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia: SUV Head-to-Head
This comparison of the Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia dives into the midsize SUV world. It helps you figure out which one fits you better.
They both offer style, power, and roominess, making them great for families or adventurers.
In this review, we look at important things like price, gas mileage, comfort, safety, and how they perform. This will help you pick the SUV that’s right for your life.
We’re going to give you a lot of info, insights, and feedback from people who own these cars.
This will show you what’s good and what’s not about both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia.
If you want to know about the coolest tech or all the different options, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the details of these two SUVs!
Introduction To Midsize SUVs
Midsize SUVs are very popular because they are roomy and versatile. They also have the latest technology.
They are perfect for families who need comfort and adventurers seeking fun. This need for something that’s both useful and stylish has made midsize SUVs very popular.
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are two top choices. They have cool features that meet different needs. Their unique designs and functions make them stand out.
When picking a midsize SUV, think about what you like and what the car offers. The Ford Explorer is known for its power.
The GMC Acadia is all about comfort and technology. Knowing these key points can help make the best choice.
Price Comparison: Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia
Price is key when choosing your next SUV. The ford explorer gmc acadia comparison 2021 shows difference in starting prices.
The Ford Explorer has a lower starting price at $41,380. In contrast, the GMC Acadia kicks off at $44,495.
This info helps you figure out which SUV is a better fit for your budget and needs. The starting prices reflect the base models but also how much you might pay for extra features.
Looking at the ford explorer gmc acadia price, think about the different versions, added options, and any deals or financing offers that might sway your choice.
| SUV Model | Starting MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | $41,380 | Spacious seating, advanced safety features, and multiple trim options |
| GMC Acadia | $44,495 | Sleek design, premium materials, and high-tech infotainment system |
Considering both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia is smart. They have different strengths. Choosing the right one depends on what you need and your budget.
Fuel Economy: A Critical Factor
Fuel economy is key when picking a midsize SUV, impacting your costs of owning it. The Ford Explorer leads in fuel efficiency, with 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on highways.
These numbers show the clear ford explorer gmc acadia differences, appealing to efficiency lovers.
The GMC Acadia, however, shows slightly less efficiency. It gets 20 MPG in town and 27 MPG on highways.
Though the difference seems small, it means more savings over time, especially for those driving a lot.
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 21 | 28 |
| GMC Acadia | 20 | 27 |
When comparing the ford explorer gmc acadia specs, think about how much you drive.
For daily commutes or family trips, the Ford Explorer’s efficiency might save you money over time. Let’s dive deeper into these options to help you choose wisely.
Interior Space and Comfort
When looking for a family SUV, space and comfort are key. The comparison between the ford explorer and gmc acadia shows each has its own perks.
Different buyers look for different things, especially regarding seats and how much stuff you can fit.
Seating Capacity and Configurations
The Ford Explorer can fit up to seven people, great for big families. On the other hand, the GMC Acadia holds six, better for smaller families.
The Explorer has more passenger space, 152.7 cubic feet, versus the Acadia’s 143.8 cubic feet, giving everyone more elbow room.
Cargo Space Availability
The ford explorer and gmc acadia differ in cargo space too. With 87.8 cubic feet behind the last row, the Explorer is perfect for vacations, sports, or big shopping trips.
The Acadia, though, has 79 cubic feet, which is still good but doesn’t quite match the Explorer.
Safety Features and Ratings
When picking a car, safety is key, especially for families. The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have great safety tech.
They bring things like auto high-beam headlamps and pre-collision assist. The Ford Explorer goes a step further.
It has Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Active Park Assist 2.0. These add comfort and meet today’s driving needs.
To compare their safety, look at this table:
| Vehicle | Driver Assistance Features | Overall Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | Auto high-beam headlamps, blind-spot monitoring, pre-collision assist, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Park Assist 2.0 | 5 stars (NHTSA) |
| GMC Acadia | Auto high-beam headlamps, blind-spot monitoring, pre-collision assist | 4 stars (NHTSA) |
The reviews for the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia show both are safe. Yet, the Explorer’s extra features make it even safer. Choosing either SUV means safety comes first for your family.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
The tech features in the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia enhance your drive. They have infotainment systems for fun and ease while traveling.
As you look at the ford explorer gmc acadia features, you’ll find similarities and differences that might sway your choice.
Driver Assistance Features
The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have advanced safety technologies. They come with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Ford’s MyKey system lets parents set controls for young drivers, encouraging safety.
GMC’s Teen Driver mode provides similar controls. It helps families keep teen drivers safe.
Entertainment Options
Both SUVs have entertainment systems for fun on long trips. The Ford Explorer has a SYNC system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, for easy smartphone use.
The GMC Acadia also has these, plus a premium audio system for great sound.
Performance Metrics: Power and Handling
When looking at midsize SUVs, performance is key. This includes engine power, towing strength, and handling.
The Ford Explorer stands out with powerful engines. In contrast, the GMC Acadia is more subdued. Knowing the ford explorer gmc acadia specs highlights these differences.
Engine Options and Specifications
The Ford Explorer comes with a robust 2.3L EcoBoost® engine, delivering 300 horsepower. This makes for great performance.
The GMC Acadia, however, has a 2.0L Turbo engine with 228 horsepower. This means the Ford has better speed and handles more smoothly in different situations.
Towing Capacity Comparison
If towing is important to you, consider this: The Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds. This is ideal for moving boats, campers, or heavy loads.
On the other hand, the GMC Acadia can only tow up to 4,000 pounds. This could matter to those who tow often.
| Vehicle | Engine Option | Horsepower | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 2.3L EcoBoost® | 300 hp | 5,600 lbs |
| GMC Acadia | 2.0L Turbo | 228 hp | 4,000 lbs |
Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia: SUV Head-to-Head
When looking for a new midsize SUV, comparing the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia is key. You will want to consider things like price, fuel economy, and comfort.
These factors show the differences between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia. They help you decide which is better for you.
The Ford Explorer often has a higher price tag. But, it comes with features that may be worth the extra money.
The GMC Acadia offers good value with its price and financing options. Fuel economy matters a lot.
The Ford Explorer gives good mileage, but the GMC Acadia is often better in the city. Both are efficient for their size. Still, thinking about the cost per mile is smart.
Both SUVs are comfortable inside. The Ford Explorer has a lot of room and blocks outside noise well. It’s great for families.
The GMC Acadia also makes rides comfy with its design and smart storage. Safety is key for both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia.
They come with state-of-the-art safety features. They have also done well in crash tests. This means you and your family can feel safe.
Technology is another thing to compare. The Ford Explorer has top-notch infotainment systems. The GMC Acadia is all about ease of use.
Both have great features that help the driver. When it comes to performance, they excel in different ways.
The Ford Explorer has powerful engines for those who want strength. The GMC Acadia focuses on a smooth ride and easy handling. Both can tow enough for weekend trips.
Getting to know the differences and similarities between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia is important.
This summary helps show what each vehicle offers. It can guide you to the best choice for your needs.
User Reviews and Real-World Experiences
User reviews are key to truly understanding the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia. Owners share their thoughts on reliability, comfort, and upkeep.
This gives potential buyers a better idea of what to expect. When looking at the ford explorer gmc acadia reviews, the comfort and spaciousness stand out.
Families and travelers love the roomy interiors. They also like how you can change the seats around for more space.
Many say the Ford Explorer is reliable over time. The GMC Acadia is also known for being dependable. Yet, some owners mention small maintenance costs as the car gets older.
The ford explorer gmc acadia reviews also talk about tech features. People like the easy-to-use infotainment systems in both SUVs.
They enjoy how well their smartphones work with the cars’ systems. In short, user feedback on the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia is very helpful.
It shows how these SUVs perform in real life. This info can help you decide between these two popular models.
Conclusion
We looked at the Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia, covering price, fuel economy, and more.
The Ford Explorer has strong engines and new tech, appealing to those who want power and modernity. The GMC Acadia, however, offers a smooth ride and is great for families.
Choosing between the Ford Explorer and the GMC Acadia depends on what’s important to you.
If you care about saving money and getting good gas mileage, think about the Acadia. But, if it’s about power and towing, the Explorer might be better for you.
Each car fits different needs, making the comparison crucial. Finally, picking the right SUV for you is important.
Use this comparison to decide what features you value most, be it space, safety, or technology.
With these insights, you can confidently choose between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia. Pick the one that fits your lifestyle best.
FAQs
Q: What is the starting price of the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia?
A: The Ford Explorer starts at ,380. The GMC Acadia starts at ,495.
Q: Which SUV offers better fuel economy?
A: The Ford Explorer has a fuel economy of 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The GMC Acadia does 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
Q: How does the interior space compare between the two SUVs?
A: The Ford Explorer can seat up to seven people. It has 152.7 cubic feet of space for passengers. The GMC Acadia can seat six people and has 143.8 cubic feet of space.
Q: What safety features do the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia offer?
A: Both SUVs offer safety tech such as blind-spot monitoring and pre-collision assist. But the Ford Explorer also has Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Active Park Assist 2.0.
Q: Which SUV has better performance capabilities?
A: The Ford Explorer comes out on top with its 2.3L EcoBoost® engine. It gives 300 horsepower. The GMC Acadia’s 2.0L Turbo engine only gives 228 horsepower.
Q: What technological features are available in both models?
A: Both the Ford and GMC have advanced driver help systems. However, they have unique parental controls. Ford has MyKey, and GMC offers Teen Driver mode.
Q: How does user feedback compare for each model?
A: People say the Ford Explorer is reliable and comfortable. The GMC Acadia is known for its style. However, it’s not as strong in performance.
