Cloninger Ford of Hickory

Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia

2020 Ford Explorer

You want to meet life’s adventures in the most stylish way. The 2020 Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia will let you do just that, but which will best serve your Hickory, Valdese, or Brookford, North Carolina, drive?

In this comparison, we want to help you answer that question. Between the Ford SUV’s classy capability and the GMC vehicle’s plush amenities, see which midsize SUV comes out on top! Our team at Cloninger Ford of Hickory will be here to help you take the next step.


Explorer vs Acadia: Push for Adventure

Ford Explorer Engine SpecsThe beating heart of every excursion is the engine under the hood. The 2020 Explorer and Acadia let you choose from a selection of three engines each.

While both offer excellent 4-cylinder engines for daily driving, you may want a more thrilling option. The GMC Acadia makes a vigorous 3.6L V6 engine available with 310 horsepower on tap. In the Ford Explorer ST, a twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 cranks out 400 horsepower for even better performance.

When you need to hitch up a trailer, the Acadia tows up to 4,000 pounds when properly equipped. You’ll have more pulling power in the Explorer, however. It can tow up to 5,600 pounds—perfect for moving a small boat!


MPG: Adventure with Fewer Fuel Stops

From commutes to road trips, you want an SUV that powers your drive efficiently. The Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia have a strong baseline in terms of fuel economy.

2020 Ford Explorer MPG

From the GMC Acadia, expect up to 21 city/27 highway MPG, per EPA estimates. The Ford Explorer has an available hybrid powertrain that achieves an EPA-estimated 27 city/29 highway MPG, outpacing the Acadia when it comes to fuel-sipping prowess. Drive farther on less fuel than ever!

The Explorer model’s EcoBoost® engines come standard with Auto Start-Stop Technology. This feature will shut down your engine automatically when you stop—to help you save fuel. When you release the brakes, the engine will roar back to life.


Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia: Interior

2020 Ford Explorer InteriorThe 2020 Explorer and Acadia are nothing if not spacious. You can seat up to seven people across three rows and leave no one behind in these SUVs. Comfort is easy to come by, too.

In the heat of summer, available ventilated front seats will keep you cool in these vehicles. You’ll also have available heated seats, so when winter rolls around, you can keep your SUV warm for the morning drive.

The Ford Explorer has another available treat: multicontour front seats with Active Motion®. These seats have five different massage themes to keep you comfortable on long drives! The GMC Acadia lacks such a feature, unfortunately.


Should I Choose the Ford Explorer or GMC Acadia?

We want Hickory, Valdese, and Brookford, NC, shoppers to have all the information they need to choose their new midsize SUV. We hope this 2020 Ford Explorer vs. GMC Acadia comparison has been helpful to you. It’s clear the Explorer stands out in terms of performance and cabin features.

Want a closer look? Book your Explorer test drive today at Cloninger Ford of Hickory!  

Contact Us

Cloninger Ford of Hickory

1241 Highway 70 East
Hickory, NC 28602
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