What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the dimensions, interior space, and cargo capacity of the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia to determine which one reigns supreme in terms of size and practicality.
- Folding down both the second and third rows reveals the maximum cargo capacity of each SUV, with the Explorer offering a massive 124.
- In terms of fuel efficiency, the Explorer’s four-cylinder engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the V6 gets 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
When it comes to choosing a spacious and versatile SUV, the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are two top contenders. Both vehicles offer ample seating, cargo space, and a variety of features to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. But which one is bigger? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the dimensions, interior space, and cargo capacity of the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia to determine which one reigns supreme in terms of size and practicality.
Dimensions: A Tale of Inches
At first glance, the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia appear to be quite similar in size. However, a closer look reveals subtle differences in their dimensions. The Explorer has a slightly longer wheelbase, measuring 119.1 inches compared to the Acadia’s 112.5 inches. This translates to a marginally longer overall length for the Explorer, which stretches to 198.8 inches versus the Acadia’s 193.6 inches. In terms of width and height, both SUVs are virtually identical, with the Explorer measuring 78.9 inches wide and 69.9 inches tall, while the Acadia comes in at 78.7 inches wide and 69.7 inches tall.
Interior Space: Room to Stretch Out
When it comes to interior space, the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia offer generous accommodations for passengers and cargo alike. Both SUVs come standard with three rows of seating, providing ample legroom and headroom for up to seven or eight occupants, depending on the configuration. The Explorer’s second-row legroom is slightly more generous, with 43.9 inches compared to the Acadia’s 41.7 inches. However, the Acadia offers a bit more headroom in the second row, with 39.7 inches compared to the Explorer’s 38.8 inches. In the third row, both SUVs offer similar levels of space, with the Explorer providing 33.2 inches of legroom and the Acadia offering 32.9 inches.
Cargo Capacity: Hauling Your Essentials
When it comes to cargo capacity, the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia offer versatile configurations to accommodate various loads. With all three rows of seats upright, the Explorer provides 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Acadia offers a slightly larger 19.7 cubic feet. However, when the third row is folded down, the Explorer’s cargo capacity expands to a cavernous 87.8 cubic feet, significantly outclassing the Acadia’s 79 cubic feet. Folding down both the second and third rows reveals the maximum cargo capacity of each SUV, with the Explorer offering a massive 124.8 cubic feet compared to the Acadia’s 122.9 cubic feet.
Features and Amenities: Comfort and Convenience
Both the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia come loaded with an array of features and amenities to enhance your driving experience. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a suite of safety technologies. Higher trim levels offer even more luxurious appointments, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Additionally, both SUVs offer optional all-wheel drive for added traction and stability in inclement weather.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia offer a range of powertrain options to suit different driving needs. The Explorer’s base engine is a 3.3-liter V6 that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the Explorer ST trim comes equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that generates an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Acadia, on the other hand, offers a choice between a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Explorer’s four-cylinder engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the V6 gets 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The Acadia’s four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the V6 gets 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Which SUV Reigns Supreme?
So, which SUV emerges victorious in this battle of size and practicality? Based on our comprehensive comparison, the Ford Explorer comes out on top. It offers slightly more interior space, significantly more cargo capacity, and a more powerful engine lineup. While the GMC Acadia offers a few advantages, such as a slightly lower starting price and a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, the Explorer’s overall size, performance, and versatility make it the better choice for those seeking a spacious and capable SUV.
Beyond Size: Other Factors to Consider
In addition to size, there are several other factors to consider when choosing between the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia. These include:
- Brand reputation: Both Ford and GMC are reputable brands with a long history of producing quality vehicles. However, some consumers may prefer one brand over the other based on personal experience or reputation.
- Reliability: The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have similar reliability ratings, with both SUVs receiving above-average scores from J.D. Power and Associates.
- Safety: Both SUVs have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Price: The Ford Explorer has a slightly higher starting price than the GMC Acadia. However, the Explorer offers more standard features and a wider range of trim levels, so it’s possible to find an Explorer that fits your budget and needs.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Ford Explorer or the GMC Acadia?
A: The Ford Explorer offers more cargo space than the GMC Acadia, with a maximum cargo capacity of 124.8 cubic feet compared to the Acadia’s 122.9 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV has more powerful engine options?
A: The Ford Explorer offers more powerful engine options than the GMC Acadia. The Explorer’s ST trim comes equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that generates 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the Acadia’s top engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The GMC Acadia has a slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer. The Acadia’s four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the Explorer’s four-cylinder engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
