Third row SUVs are much more common on the roads today, especially SUVs such as the 2023 GMC Acadia and 2023 Ford Explorer. When looking at these two vehicles it is easy to wonder which would be best suited for you and your family. In this in-depth guide we will take a look into these two mid-size SUVs and the features that they have.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2023 GMC Acadia as well as the 2023 Ford Explorer are focused on both safety and drivability. With many premium features these vehicles are designed to not only get you where you need to go, but do it in comfort as well.
- GMC offers an active all wheel drive management system in the new 2023 Acadia that will monitor the driving conditions and engage the all wheel drive when necessary.
- While both of these companies offer a variety of trims, the 2023 Ford lineup for their Explorers do offer a hybrid option to save at the pump.
- Both of these vehicles have a very impressive cargo space that will allow you to pack up any gear that you may want.
Drivetrain Options:
Often people wonder what sort of power and performance you will see in these vehicles. GMC offers two different engine options that both produce a good amount of power for your driving needs. Mated with a nine speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly you will be right on the road to the next adventure. On top of this the GMC Acadia has different driving options that will help you in any sort of terrain. With available driving modes such as, FWD, AWD, Sport, Snow, and Tow/Trailering you will be able to handle all types of driving and terrains.
Engine options in the 2023 GMC Acadia:
- 2.0 liter turbocharged engine with twin scroll turbos (228 horsepower, 259 pounds of torque)
- 3.6 liter V6 engine (310 horsepower, 271 pounds of torque)
The 2023 Ford Explorer on the other hand has some slight differences. This vehicle offers a ten speed transmission instead of the nine speed found in the GMC Acadia. On top of this there is only one standard engine other than the hybrid setup. Much like the 2023 GMC Acadia, the Ford Explorer comes with Terrain Management that offers different driving modes such as Slippery, Sport, Tow/haul, and Eco Mode.
Engine options in the 2023 Ford Explorer:
- 3.0 liter EcoBoost V6 engine (400 horsepower, 415 pounds of torque)
- 3.3 liter V6 Hybrid engine (318 horsepower, 322 pounds of torque)
The Hybrid option that is offered for the 2023 Ford Explorer can help you save on gas and is also able to provide similar power. These hybrid models are able to tow up to 5,000 lbs. Which is quite impressive given it is a hybrid.
Interior and Driving Comforts:
The 2023 GMC has both an incredible interior and great features that will have you driving in comfort in no time. The SLE and SLT trim levels see real aluminum trims. The SLE has premium cloth seats, while the SLT will have upgraded leather seats. The AT4 trim leather will feature jet black seats with embossed AT4 symbols. Finally the Denali trim level has a white leather interior with ash wood accents.
GMC Acadia’s boast an impressive 79 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third row flipped all the way down. This gives you plenty of room to be able to store and luggage or gear that you may want to be taking with you on your next road trip.
2023 GMC Acadia Interior Features:
- Advanced Temperature Control
- Heated and cooled front drivers and passengers seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Dual Sunroof
- Third-row seating that are able to seat up to seven total passengers
The Ford Explorer has similar interior features, also having third row seating to seat up to a total of 7 passengers. You will also see an impressive sound system in many of their trims to listen to the radio. To top it all off there is multi-color ambient lighting. Customers will also see that the Ford Explorer offers 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space for all you need.
2023 Ford Explorer Interior Features:
- Power Fold third row seating
- Twin panel Moonroof
- Extra pockets on the side and under floor storage for smaller items
- Active Motion seats in the front to offer 5 different massage settings
The Best Vehicle for You:
In comparing these two vehicles you will see many similarities that may make it difficult to choose. So what will be the best choice for you? Simply put, the 2023 GMC Acadia has our vote. While this vehicle may not produce as much power as the 2023 Ford Explorer, and is a bit smaller, you will have many more luxurious features that will give you comfort while driving at all times.