Cloninger Ford of Morganton

Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia

2020 Ford Explorer

Are you ready to hit the roads of Boone and Morganton, North Carolina, on your next family adventure? The 2020 Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia are two midsize SUVs that leave plenty of room to spare. In our comparison, we want to show you how they measure up.

Discover whether the Ford or GMC sport utility vehicle will serve you best on the streets of Newland and Lenoir! Reach out to our team at Cloninger Ford Morganton to learn more.


Ford Explorer vs GMC Acadia: Interior Features

Ford Explorer InteriorIn many respects, these SUVs are fit for a king! Slide inside the 2020 Explorer or Acadia, and you’ll find a suite of relaxing amenities to help you cozy up for the drive ahead.

Both offer three rows of seats with space for up to seven passengers. When the summer heat or winter chill becomes too much, the available heated and cooled front seats offer relief in the Explorer and the Acadia. The Explorer even offers multicontour front seats with Active Motion® massage settings! 

Luxurious leather seating is available as you move up trim levels, and the Explorer Platinum and Acadia Denali look especially exquisite. Only the Ford Explorer offers available tri-diamond perforated leather seating surfaces with accent stitching, however.


An All-Star Performance Awaits

Some pretty powerful engines can be yours in the Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia. While the standard 4-cylinder powertrains can move you from Point A to Point B, more thrilling options are available, too.

Ford Explorer Engine Specs

When you choose the 3.6L V6 engine available in the GMC Acadia, for instance, 310 horsepower will be at your service. The Ford Explorer takes the win here, though: The sport-oriented ST trim level runs on a twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 that cranks out up to 400 horsepower!

While the Acadia sees strong gas mileage—up to an EPA-estimated 21 city/27 highway MPG—the Explorer again passes it by. With the hybrid powertrain (an option the Acadia does not offer), you’ll earn up to an EPA-estimated 27 city/29 highway MPG.


Explorer vs Acadia: Modern Technology

Ford Explorer with 10.1-inch portrait touchscreenIt’s easier than ever to stay connected in the 2020 Explorer and Acadia. The Ford SYNC® 3 infotainment system and its GMC equivalent both come with 8-inch touchscreens and smartphone connectivity.

Keep in mind, though, that only the Ford Explorer offers an available 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen. The tall screen is the perfect way to queue up your directions and maps! In the GMC Acadia, you need to rely on the 8-inch screen on all trim levels, unfortunately.

Whichever vehicle you choose, though, you’ll have standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Pair up your smartphone with the touchscreen and send messages or manage your music as you drive!


Is the Ford Explorer or GMC Acadia a Better Buy?

We hope this comparison helps Boone and Morganton shoppers evaluate these midsize SUVs. You’ll find the 2020 Ford Explorer and GMC Acadia capable vehicles in many respects.

However, the Ford Explorer really stands out when it comes to interior comfort and potent powertrains. We know Newland and Lenoir, NC, drivers will want to see it in action. 

Book your Explorer test drive today at Cloninger Ford Morganton and get behind the wheel!    

Contact Us

Cloninger Ford of Morganton

1001 Jamestown Road
Morganton, NC 28655
Driving Directions
Sales 828-584-4600
Service 828-584-4600
Parts 828-584-4600
Monday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
Tuesday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
Wednesday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
Thursday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
Friday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
Saturday 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 7:30AM - 6:00PM
Tuesday 7:30AM - 6:00PM
Wednesday 7:30AM - 6:00PM
Thursday 7:30AM - 6:00PM
Friday 7:30AM - 6:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM - 2:00PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Tuesday 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Wednesday 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Thursday 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Friday 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Saturday 7:30AM - 12:30PM
Sunday Closed