Family haulers are getting smarter, sleeker, and more capable. In 2025, the GMC Acadia rolls in with a bold redesign and upgraded features aimed at families who like a touch of luxury. Meanwhile, the 2025 Ford Explorer stays practical but adds smarter tech and sharper looks. Let’s unpack the differences between the 2025 GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer below!
Key Takeaways:
- As of May 13, 2025, the GMC Acadia starts at $44,495 and goes up to $61,085, while the Ford Explorer runs from $41,380 to $55,835.
- The Acadia gets a full design makeover, adding modern touches inside and out.
- The Explorer sticks to a practical, family-focused formula with a few smart updates. The Acadia leans more into luxury.
What Changed For the 2025 GMC Acadia?
The Acadia didn’t just get a simple refresh—it got a nearly full redesign. Standard features include 18-inch wheels, all-season tires, front seat belt tensioners, and a back-seat reminder system. You’ll also notice the seating capacity is up; it can accommodate eight passengers comfortably.
One of the coolest additions is a built-in vehicle health management system, which lets you stay ahead of maintenance needs.
And for drivers who like to personalize their ride, GMC rolled out a lineup of dealer-installed accessories:
- 22-inch bright-finish wheels
- Blacked-out GMC emblems and nameplate
- A light-up GMC front badge
- Painted or molded assist steps
- Rocker and sill lighting
- Roof rack with cross rails
- Optional lumbar support for the front passenger (with Elevation Premium Package)
What Are The Trim levels of the 2025 GMC Acadia?
- Elevation: $44,295
- AT4: $52,595
- Denali: $55,295
Ford’s changes to the 2025 Explorer are more of a tune-up than a total transformation. Inside, it gets better quality materials, Ford’s new Digital Experience system (with Google Play for apps and entertainment), and now features available BlueCruise for hands-free driving. The exterior also sees slight tweaks to the grille and lighting.
The Explorer's trims and starting MSRPs are:
- Active: $41,380
- ST-Line: $46,190
- Tremor (est.): $52,000
- Platinum: $53,695
- ST: $55,835
What Features are Seen in the 2025 GMC Acadia?
If upscale feel matters to you, the Acadia steps up in a big way. The interior design is modern and polished, with smart storage and a layout that feels more refined. Standard three-row seating gives you flexibility, and if you opt for captain’s chairs, it becomes easier to access the back (but drops total occupant capacity to seven).
The Explorer is a bit more straightforward—think clean and functional rather than fancy. That said, it’s a solid, no-fuss space for families and commuters who value simplicity over flair.
Is the 2025 GMC Acadia a Powerful SUV?
The Acadia’s turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivers 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque—plenty of oomph for everyday driving. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic and offers either standard four-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive.
The Explorer lineup, however, gives you more variety. Most trims include a 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Explorer ST and Platinum trims feature an optional 3.0-liter turbo V6 cranking out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. Every model gets a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and AWD available.
While the Explorer has the more powerful optional engine, when it comes to the more common standard engine, the Acadia wins this round.
Should I Purchase a 2025 GMC Acadia?
Both SUVs offer strong performance and family-friendly space, but the Acadia edges ahead with its premium interior, new features, and power. Ready to see it for yourself? Stop by our showroom at Alan Jay for a test drive!