--- title: "New GMC Acadia Model Comparison | Markquart Motors | Markquart Motors" source_url: "https://www.markquartmotors.com/research/gmc/acadia-vs-competition.htm" page_path: "/research/gmc/acadia-vs-competition.htm" page_type: "research" crawled_at: "2026-07-27T18:12:18.850Z" content_changed_at: "2026-07-27T17:14:56.089Z" content_unchanged_days: 2 observed_days: 2 sitemap_lastmod_reliable: false --- # New GMC Acadia Model Comparison | Markquart Motors | Markquart Motors Discover how the new 2025 GMC Acadia compares to the competition. Schedule a test drive today and bring your new Acadia home from Markquart Motors! # New GMC Acadia Model Comparison | Markquart Motors # 2025 GMC Acadia vs the Competition The 2025 GMC Acadia emerges as a bold and refined midsize SUV built to conquer the road with adventure-ready power and cutting-edge innovation. Under the hood, the all-new 2.5L turbocharged engine produces a formidable 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, providing thrilling acceleration and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity-perfect for weekend getaways or hauling gear. Whether it's the off-road-tuned suspension of the AT4 trim or the elevated comfort of the Denali's premium leather seating and Galvano Silver accents, the Acadia blends rugged performance with refined elegance. It outshines rivals like the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Ford Explorer by offering advanced technology such as an available 8" Head-Up Display, a massive 15" Infotainment System, and available Super Cruise hands-free driving. From tech-savvy features to enhanced comfort and capability, the 2025 GMC Acadia is built for families and thrill-seekers who demand more from every mile. Explore all the impressive features, enticing trim options, and competitive advantages the 2025 GMC Acadia offers below. After you've finished your research and found a trim right for you, stop by Markquart Motors in Chippewa Falls, WI for a test drive. Markquart Motors is the automotive home to all drivers in the Minneapolis area. From Seymour and Altoona to Eau Claire and Cadott, there is something for everyone here at Markquart Motors! Browse all our latest [new](https://www.markquartmotors.com/new-vehicles/) and [pre-owned](https://www.markquartmotors.com/used-vehicles/) inventory online. Don't forget to also check out our ongoing [specials](https://www.markquartmotors.com/new-vehicles/new-vehicle-specials/) for an even better deal! Feel free to contact us at [(715)-833-0444](tel:7158330444) with any questions; we look forward to serving you at Markquart Motors. *Starting MSRP $$43,000* ## GMC Acadia Highlights - **Performance:** 2.5L Turbo Engine with 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque; up to 5,000 lbs. towing capacity. - **Engine Options:** Standard turbocharged 2.5L engine across all trims for confident acceleration and hauling. - **Interior Features:** 7 or 8-passenger seating with available leather-appointed heated and ventilated seats. - **Exterior Features:** Up to 22" wheels, available roof rails, AT4 skid plates, and Smart Sense Liftgate. - **Technology:** 15" Premium Infotainment System, 11" Driver Info Center, Apple CarPlay(R), Android Auto(TM), and Bose 16-Speaker System. - **Safety Features:** GMC Pro Safety(TM), HD Surround Vision, OnStar(R) & Connected Services, and available Super Cruise(TM). ### 2024 vs 2025 GMC Acadia The 2025 GMC Acadia introduces a wave of enhancements over its 2024 predecessor, making it more versatile, stylish, and connected. Most notably, the Elevation trim now comes standard with a second-row bench seat, boosting passenger capacity for larger families. It also gains the new Premium Package with sleek 20-inch wheels and refined design cues. Wheel upgrades on the Elevation, such as redesigned 18-inch dark-gray variants, contribute to its bold new stance. Across the lineup, standard features now include the Trailering Package and OnStar Basics Package, dramatically improving both utility and driver connectivity. ## 2025 GMC Acadia vs the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Ford Explorer **Engine:** **Infotainment Screen & Driver Display:** **Available Audio:** **Hands-Free Driving Technology:** **Seating Capacity:** **2025 GMC Acadia** 2.5L Turbo (328 hp / 326 lb-ft) 15" Diagonal, 11" Digital Bose 16-Speaker Premium Available Super Cruise(TM) 7 or 8 **2025 Toyota Highlander** 2.4L Turbo (265 hp / 310 lb-ft) 12.3" Touchscreen, 7" Digital Cluster JBL 11-Speaker System Not Available 7 **2025 Ford Explorer** 2.3L EcoBoost (300 hp / 310 lb-ft) 10.1" LCD Touchscreen, 6.5" Cluster B&O 12-Speaker Sound Ford BlueCruise (Subscription) 6 or 7 The 2025 GMC Acadia edges out both the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer with its combination of potent power, upscale amenities, and next-generation technology. It offers superior infotainment and digital displays, a more robust premium audio system, and the trail-ready AT4 trim with off-road features not available on the other two. The addition of Super Cruise(TM) puts the GMC Acadia in a class of its own when it comes to semi-autonomous driving. For shoppers looking for a family SUV that delivers on performance and innovation, the 2025 GMC Acadia stands tall as a top-tier option. The 2025 GMC Acadia is built for those who crave excitement on every journey. At its core is a 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque-more than what the Toyota Highlander or 2025 Ford Explorer offer in their base trims. Its 5,000-pound towing capability combined with Active Torque Control AWD ensures that you can conquer tough trails and tow with confidence. The GMC AT4 trim takes capability up a notch with off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and a lifted ride height for serious off-pavement potential. Whether you're venturing into the wild or cruising the highway, the 2025 GMC Acadia delivers an invigorating drive. The GMC Acadia offers stronger performance and more intuitive handling than the Ford Explorer's 2.3L EcoBoost engine and the Toyota Highlander's 2.4L turbo. GMC's advanced AWD and trailering system comes standard across trims, ensuring readiness for any conditions. The GMC Acadia AT4's exclusive Forest Storm interior and skid plates emphasize its adventure-first philosophy. The seamless integration of rugged design and responsive mechanics makes the 2025 Acadia the perfect blend of everyday practicality and weekend-ready excitement. ## Interior and Exterior Design Inside, the 2025 GMC Acadia radiates refined luxury and practical design. The Denali trim features leather-appointed heated and ventilated seats in the first and second rows, while the third-row seats power-fold at the touch of a button. The spacious cabin accommodates up to 8 passengers and is enhanced by the premium 15" Infotainment System and 11" Driver Info Center, making every drive informative and immersive. Unique Galvano Silver accents and a panoramic sunroof in the Denali elevate the upscale appeal, delivering a serene experience no matter the distance. On the outside, the GMC Acadia makes a commanding impression with available 22" wheels, a Smart Sense Liftgate, and striking trim-exclusive design elements. The GMC Acadia Elevation trim's redesigned 18" dark-gray wheels and the GMC Acadia AT4's lifted stance and rugged details underscore its tough personality. Compared to the Ford Explorer's dated design and the Toyota Highlander's conservative lines, the 2025 GMC Acadia looks sharp, aggressive, and ready for anything. It's an SUV that refuses to blend in. ## Entertainment and Safety Technology Technology in the 2025 GMC Acadia is both immersive and intuitive. A massive 15" diagonal infotainment screen and standard wireless Apple CarPlay(R) and Android Auto(TM) keep you connected with ease. The available 8" Head-Up Display projects essential information onto the windshield, minimizing distractions. A Bose Premium 16-Speaker Audio System surrounds you in rich, concert-quality sound, unmatched by the Toyota Highlander's JBL or Ford Explorer's B&O offerings. Multiple USB ports and wireless charging enhance convenience for every passenger. In terms of safety, the 2025 Acadia leads with GMC Pro Safety(TM) and offers High Definition Surround Vision and the OnStar(R) system for continuous connectivity and security. Available Super Cruise(TM), a true standout in this segment, enables hands-free driving on compatible roads-something neither the Toyota Highlander nor the Ford Explorer can claim without ongoing subscription limitations. From intelligent driver aids to passenger-focused entertainment, the Acadia keeps you secure and entertained on every road trip or daily commute. --- ### GMC Acadia Trim Options #### **Elevation** - 2.5L turbo engine with 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque - Second- and third-row manual-folding 60-40 split-bench seats - 8-way power-adjustable driver seat with 4-way power lumbar - Bose Premium 12-speaker audio system - Over 15 safety and driver assistance technologies - 15" diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment System - 11" diagonal Driver Information Center - Trailering Package with 5,000 lbs. of max trailering capability #### **AT4** *Starting MSRP $$51,400* - Active torque control AWD system - Off-road-tuned suspension - 18" dark machined aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires - Lifted ride height - AT4-exclusive dark-accented exterior and Forest Storm interior #### **Denali** *Starting MSRP $$54,100* - Unique Denali grille and badging with Galvano Silver accents - Premium interior with leather-appointed first- and second-row seats - Configurable 8" diagonal Head-Up Display - 20" machined aluminum wheels with Pearl Nickel finish - Third-row power-folding seats and second-row one-touch folding seats - Heated and ventilated front seats ## GMC Acadia FAQs The 2025 GMC Acadia includes a larger 15" infotainment screen and an available 8" Head-Up Display, while the Highlander maxes out at 12.3". The Acadia also offers Super Cruise(TM), a feature not found on the Highlander. The Acadia's 2.5L turbo engine delivers 328 horsepower, outperforming the Explorer's 2.3L EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower. Yes, the AT4 trim includes off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and a lifted ride height-features the Highlander does not offer. The Acadia can seat up to 8 passengers and now includes a second-row bench in the Elevation trim. The Explorer offers a max of 7 seats with more limited flexibility. Yes, the Acadia offers GMC Pro Safety(TM), Super Cruise(TM), and HD Surround Vision, which provide more advanced driver-assistance features than the Highlander. The Denali trim of the Acadia features leather-appointed seats, Galvano Silver accents, and a premium Bose 16-speaker audio system-elements that rival or exceed the Explorer's Platinum offerings. The Acadia's infotainment and digital displays are larger and more advanced, and it includes standard OnStar(R) connectivity, giving it a technological edge. The Acadia and Highlander tie at 5,000 lbs, while the Explorer slightly edges out at 5,600 lbs, but the Acadia makes up for it with its superior torque and AWD integration. Starting at $43,000, the 2025 GMC Acadia offers superior technology, performance, and interior space, making it the most value-packed choice among the three. ### How Can We Help? * Indicates a required field