If you're eyeing a midsize SUV that meets your needs on power, price, and everyday practicality, the 2025 GMC Acadia deserves a spot on your shortlist. But how does it do against one of the most popular models on the market, the Honda Pilot? Let’s dig into what sets these family-friendly SUVs with 8 seats apart!
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 GMC Acadia starts at $44,495 and tops out at $59,085. The 2025 Honda Pilot starts a bit lower at $41,295, with the most expensive trim hitting $55,675. Prices are current as of May 22, 2025.
- The Acadia got a serious glow-up for 2025—it’s basically a whole new SUV. The Pilot received a few minor changes.
- The Acadia's engine choices are more powerful than the Pilot's.
2025 GMC Acadia vs 2025 Honda Pilot: What’s New for This Year
GMC didn’t hold back when updating the Acadia for 2025. It’s got fresh standard features like:
- 18" wheels with all-season tires
- Seat belt tensioners for the front seats
- A rear-seat reminder
- Eight-passenger seating
- A built-in vehicle health management system
Plus, there are tons of new dealer-installed accessories, including:
- Bright finish 22" wheels plus new locks, caps, and lugs
- Blacked-out GMC emblems and Acadia badging
- A light-up front GMC logo
- Painted or molded assist steps
- Rocker lighting and illuminated door sills
- Roof rails and crossbars
- Available front passenger lumbar support (Elevation Premium Package)
The 2025 Pilot lineup says goodbye to its former base trim, the LX, and hello to the new Black Edition model. It brings a sleek all-black design to the wheels, body accents, and badges—and comes standard with all-wheel drive.
2025 Acadia vs 2025 Pilot: Price Breakdown
Here’s how pricing shakes out between the two SUVs:
- Elevation: $44,495
- AT4: $56,385
- Denali: $59,085
- Sport: $41,650
- EX-L: $41,650
- Touring: $48,950
- TrailSport: $50,850
- Elite: $54,530
- Black Edition: $54,530
Interior Comfort and Features: A Tie with a Twist
The Acadia leans upscale with a modern layout, soft-touch materials, and storage throughout. You get standard seating for eight (thanks to three bench rows), with the option to swap in captain’s chairs, which drops passenger capacity down to seven.
The Pilot also feels comfortable and high-end, especially in its higher trims. Space is generous in all three rows, and like the Acadia, you can configure it for seven or eight passengers depending on trim and seating setup.
Under the Hood: Which One Packs More Power?
GMC gives the Acadia a strong edge here. It comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that churns out 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. It mates with an 8-speed automatic, and you get standard four-wheel drive, with available all-wheel drive, depending on trim. The Pilot takes a simpler route, offering just one engine—a 3.5-liter V6 delivering 285 horsepower. It mates with a 10-speed automatic, and while front-wheel drive comes standard, all-wheel drive is optional.
Which SUV Delivers the Best Value?
If you're looking for reliability, the Pilot’s a solid choice. But if you want a little more power and the kind of upscale feel that makes daily drives a little more special, the Acadia pulls ahead. It blends family-focused features with a premium vibe you’ll notice as soon as you get behind the wheel. Ready to upgrade your SUV game? Come by and see the 2025 Acadia in person!