If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV that delivers on space, power, and practicality, the newly redesigned 2025 GMC Acadia should absolutely be on your radar. But how does it measure up against one of the top players in the class, the Honda Pilot? Let’s break down what separates these two family-friendly SUVs with 8 seats and figure out which one checks the most boxes for you.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Acadia starts at $44,495 and tops out at $59,085, while the 2025 Honda Pilot kicks off a little lower at $41,295 and maxes out at $55,675. Prices are current as of May 31, 2025.
- The Acadia got a full redesign this year—a new platform, new look, new everything. The Pilot got some tweaks, including a new Black Edition trim.
- The Acadia delivers noticeably more power than the Pilot.
Pricing and Upgrade Breakdown on the 2025 Acadia vs. 2025 Pilot
The Acadia went all-in for 2025. You’ll see fresh features across the board, including:
- Standard 18-inch wheels with all-season tires
- Front seat belt tensioners
- A rear-seat reminder
- Standard 8-passenger seating
- Built-in vehicle health management
Plus, dealers now offer a laundry list of new accessories:
- Bright finish 22-inch wheels with matching locks and caps
- Blacked-out GMC badges and emblems
- Light-up front GMC logo
- Molded and painted assist steps
- Rocker lighting, illuminated sills, roof rails, and crossbars
- Optional front passenger lumbar (in the Elevation Premium Package)
Its trim prices are:
- Elevation: $44,495
- AT4: $56,385
- Denali: $59,085
The 2025 Pilot drops its former base LX trim and adds a sharp-looking Black Edition. It’s dressed head-to-toe in black accents, wheels, and badging—and it now comes standard with all-wheel drive. Its trim prices are:
- Sport: $41,650
- EX-L: $41,650
- Touring: $48,950
- TrailSport: $50,850
- Elite: $54,530
- Black Edition: $54,530
Interior Features and Comfort: Pretty Even, but Different Flavors
The Acadia aims to be more upscale. Here, you'll find soft materials, a clean layout, and smart storage throughout the cabin. It comes standard with bench seating in all three rows—so eight-passenger seating right out of the gate. Captain’s chairs are available if you’d rather go with a seven-seater.
The Pilot also brings a comfortable, family-first vibe—especially in upper trims. Like the Acadia, it offers both seven- and eight-passenger setups, depending on trim level. It feels roomy in all three rows, with good visibility and a user-friendly layout.
Power and Performance: Acadia Takes the Lead
This is where the Acadia really starts to pull away. It packs a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque and mated to an 8-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive is standard, though some trims offer all-wheel drive instead.
The Pilot keeps things simple with one engine across the board: a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 285 horsepower. It pairs with a 10-speed automatic, and while front-wheel drive is standard, you can option in all-wheel drive.
Which One’s the Better Buy?
The Honda Pilot remains a dependable pick, but if you’re looking for a bit more performance, a more premium feel, and fresh design inside and out, the 2025 Acadia is hard to beat. It feels more refined, has more standard tech, and brings power that’ll make your highway merges a little less stressful.
If you're ready for an upgrade, come see the 2025 GMC Acadia in person—it might just be the SUV your family’s been waiting for. Stop by Reliable GMC in Roseville today, we’d love to help you find your family’s next ride!