2016 Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia | Chattanooga, TN

The 2016 Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia. What's Your Choice?

Serving Chattanooga, Nashville, and Dalton, TN

If you need a versatile vehicle than can accommodate a large family, a three-row SUV may prove to be the best option. Chosen as a 2016 Motor Trend SUV of the Year contender, the new Ford Explorer continues to outperform the competition. The Explorer’s chiseled styling and comfortable ride makes it hard to beat. While the base model comes loaded with upscale features, the top-of-the-line Platinum model offers an enhanced level of luxury.

Known for its spacious design, the 2016 GMC Acadia is yet another one of the segment’s strongest contenders. Many automotive critics have also praised the SUV for its smooth ride. Let’s take a look at how the 2016 Ford Explorer stacks up to the 2016 GMC Acadia.

Performance

Both SUVs come standard with a strong V-6 engine. While the Explorer’s meaty 3.5-liter engine produces 290 horsepower, the Acadia’s 3.6-liter engine develops 281 horsepower. The Explorer's better overall fuel economy gives it a key advantage. According to the EPA, the Acadia returns 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the Explorer’s optional 2.0L EcoBoost engine delivers 19 mpg in town and 28 mpg on the open road. If you really want to experience muscular performance, opt for the high-powered 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Ford has tuned it to produce an exciting 365 horsepower and 350 lbs. of torque. With a surprising 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds, the Explorer Sport is among the fastest SUVs on the market. Unfortunately, Acadia buyers are limited to only a single engine choice.

Off-Road Capabilities

The new 2016 Ford Explorer is perfect for the families who want to enjoy an off-road adventure. Because of the SUV’s sturdy construction, you will be able to overcome nature’s obstacles. Although the GMC Acadia’s optional AWD system comes in handy in snowy weather, it is not engineered to tackle challenging landscapes. Several off-road technologies come with the Ford Explorer’s available AWD system. When traveling down a steep incline, hill-descent control enables you to move forward at a safe pace. You can also take advantage of the Explorer’s Terrain Management System. The four-mode drive system can be adjusted to match the specific road conditions.

Safety

Fortunately, both of these three-row SUVs earned an excellent five-star safety rating. This means that your family will remain protected in the event of a crash. Like the Explorer, the Acadia offers a forward collision warning system and blind-spot monitoring. Although the Acadia is a secure family vehicle, the Explorer has more high-tech safety features to choose from. When approaching a corner, the Curve Control feature can automatically reduce your speed when necessary. Designed to give parents more control over their teen drivers, Ford’s MyKey system can be used to limit the Explorer’s top speed. Some of the other innovations not available for the 2016 Acadia include adaptive cruise control, trailer sway control, and a front-view camera.

The 2016 GMC Acadia proves to be a solid SUV. However, it is able to conquer the new Ford Explorer. The Explorer's innovative safety technologies and superior fuel efficiency give it the edge. To experience the Explorer's strong performance, stop by Mountain View Ford for a test drive.

MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at MSRP refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.

All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.