The 2026 GMC Acadia is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. That's a strong output for a family-oriented mid-size SUV. The Explorer offers its own powertrain options, but the Acadia's combination of torque and smooth transmission gives it an edge in everyday driving feel. The Acadia also offers a Traction Select System with up to six available drive modes, giving drivers added control across a variety of road conditions. For off-road-minded buyers, the AT4 trim adds all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, and a lifted ride height.

When it comes to hauling, the Acadia holds its own. All 2026 Acadia trims - Elevation, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate - are capable of towing up to a maximum of 5,000 pounds with the available Trailering Package. The Explorer's towing capacity is comparable at certain configurations, but the Acadia's standard trailering setup makes it easier to get equipped without chasing options. For drivers in East Liverpool who need a dependable SUV that can handle a trailer on the weekends, the Acadia is a well-rounded choice.

Inside, the Acadia offers seating for up to eight passengers across three rows, along with a maximum cargo volume of 97.5 cubic feet behind the first row with the second- and third-row seats folded flat. With all seats up, there's 23.0 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Interior materials vary by trim, ranging from cloth seating on the Elevation to full-grain leather massaging front seats on the Denali Ultimate. The Explorer also offers three rows, but the Acadia's cargo flexibility and premium interior options give it a clear advantage for families who want both function and comfort.

The Acadia comes standard with a 15-inch diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment System featuring a color touchscreen with Google built-in compatibility and voice-activated technology. Every trim also includes an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center as a digital cluster. The available 8-inch diagonal configurable Head-Up Display projects key information directly onto the windshield, keeping your eyes where they belong. You also get nine camera views, including HD Surround Vision and a Rear Camera Mirror. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are supported, and six USB ports are distributed throughout the cabin across all three rows. The Explorer offers a capable infotainment setup as well, but the Acadia's larger screen and broader camera system give it the edge.

The 2026 Acadia comes equipped with over 19 standard safety and driver assistance features on every single trim. That list includes Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Reverse Automatic Braking, and more. The Explorer has a solid safety suite as well, but the Acadia's breadth of standard features - without requiring upgrades to higher trims - is hard to beat. Available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology takes the Acadia even further for buyers who want cutting-edge convenience on compatible roads.

When comparing the 2026 GMC Acadia vs. 2026 Ford Explorer side by side, the Acadia consistently delivers more where it counts. From its powerful turbocharged engine and generous cargo capacity to its extensive standard safety suite and premium tech features, the Acadia is built for drivers who want a mid-size SUV that doesn't make them choose between capability and comfort. Whether you're considering the adventurous AT4 or the luxurious Denali Ultimate, the Acadia lineup has a trim to match your life.