2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 GMC Acadia at Big M Ford
If you’re stuck deciding between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 GMC Acadia, you’re not alone. On paper, they look pretty similar. Both offer three rows of seating, solid towing numbers, and an array of modern tech. But spec sheets only tell part of the story. In this comparison guide, we like to dig into the stuff that actually matters when you’re behind the wheel, like how easy it is to load up the back, how smart the infotainment system is, and how the vehicle fits into your day-to-day life. Follow along with our team at Big M Ford to figure out which SUV gives you more for your investment.
Read More:
Design
Convenience & Comfort
Let’s not get caught up in the exterior looks because everyone has their own style, and you can see the differences in photos anyway. What really counts is how comfortable and convenient your ride is every day.
Step inside the 2025 Ford Explorer, and you’re welcomed by customizable LED interior lighting that lets you set the mood with colours you can personalize. When it comes to seats, Ford gives you many options, from durable and easy-care ActiveX to the premium Miko and classic cloth, so you can make your Explorer your own. But these premium seating surfaces are just the beginning. Available multicontour massaging seats add a touch of luxury, and a wireless charging pad keeps your devices powered up on the go.
GMC offers a little more cargo volume in the Acadia, but the difference is only a few hundred litres, with 2,761 litres compared to the Explorer’s 2,431 litres behind the first-row seats. Both SUVs offer three rows of seating with heated steering wheels and heated first- and second-row seats, but the Explorer’s variety of premium seating choices and other thoughtful features make it the more comfortable and convenient pick overall.
Performance
Engine Specifications
When it comes to power output, the 2025 Ford Explorer offers two engine options. You can go with the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, which delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Or, if you want more muscle, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 pumps out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, which gives you plenty of pep for highway passes or hauling. The GMC Acadia only gives you a 2.5L turbo engine choice, which outputs 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. It still provides enough power for everyday driving, but compared to the Explorer’s V6, it doesn’t quite pack the same punch.
Towing Capacity
The 2025 Ford Explorer comes standard with the Class III Tow Package, letting you tow up to 2,267 kg (5,000 lbs). What really sets Ford apart, though, is the tech that comes along for the ride, like Side-Wind Stabilization, Trailer Sway Control, and Blind Spot Information with trailer coverage. These features give you a more confident feeling behind the wheel and help keep you safe, especially when towing heavy loads.
Although the GMC Acadia offers a similar towing capacity, it doesn’t come with these advanced towing technologies as standard. That means, to get the same level of stability and control that Ford’s features provide, Acadia owners may need to buy the package separately.
| Specs Comparison |
2025 Ford Explorer |
2025 GMC Acadia | |
| Engine Type | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 2.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower (hp) | 300 | 400 | 328 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 310 | 415 | 326 |
| Tow Capacity (lb) | 5,000 | 5,000 | |
Technology
The 2025 Ford Explorer delivers a personalized digital experience in its stunning, high-resolution 13.2-inch touchscreen, redesigned for clarity and ease of use. This beautiful display can remember your vehicle settings and can even link your keys and phones, so every drive feels personalized from the moment you hop in. With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, your most-used apps will automatically sync to the infotainment system. Whether you prefer tapping the screen or using your voice, controlling your infotainment is intuitive. The GMC Acadia also provides the same level of connectivity features, but wireless functionality isn’t mentioned, which means you’ll probably need to plug your device in to use those features.
Other technology highlights for the 2025 Ford Explorer:
- FordPass Connect
- 5G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot
- Ford Co-Pilot360
- BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving
- 360 Degree Camera w/Split View
- Bang & Olufsen Premium Audio System
- And More
2025 GMC Acadia tech highlights include:
- Safety & Driver-Assistance Suite
- Available Super Cruise
- Surround Vision
- Available Head-Up Display
- Bose Audio System
- And More
Shop the 2025 Ford Explorer at Big M Ford
After lining it up, the 2025 Ford Explorer makes a strong case for itself. If you’re in Medicine Hat, Alberta, or nearby, we’d love for you to come by Big M Ford and check one out in person. Our team’s here to answer your questions, take you for a test drive, or simply let you explore at your own pace. Or, if you’re just starting your search, feel free to browse our new and used Explorer inventory online and book a test drive when it works for you.