When shopping for a mid-size three-row SUV, discerning buyers have several strong options to consider. The redesigned 2025 GMC Acadia aims to rise above the competition with its winning combination of spacious cargo room, rugged off-road capability in the AT4 trim, and premium amenities in the top-tier Denali model. At Sims Buick GMC, we want families to make well-informed decisions. In this three-row SUV comparison, we'll look at how the new GMC Acadia measures up against two key rivals: the Honda Pilot and Hyundai Palisade.
2025 GMC Acadia: A Standout Choice in Mid-Size 3-Row SUVs
GMC Acadia vs. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot has long been a top seller in the three-row SUV segment thanks to its reputation for reliability, safety, and resale value. However, the redesigned GMC Acadia offers several advantages over the Pilot:
- More cargo space: The 2025 GMC Acadia's redesign includes expanded cargo capacity, with 20 cubic feet behind the third row, 63 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 98 cubic feet with both rear rows down. This tops the Honda Pilot's cargo volumes of 18, 56, and 84 cubic feet, respectively.
- Off-road focused AT4 model: Adventure-minded families around Warren, OH will appreciate that the GMC Acadia offers a dedicated off-road oriented trim in the AT4. It includes standard all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and enhanced approach/departure angles for tackling rugged trails. The Pilot's TrailSport loses out with just cosmetic changes.
- Larger touchscreen: The Honda Pilot only offers a 9-inch touchscreen. The 2025 GMC Acadia gives families access to a 15-inch diagonal Premium GMC Infotainment System.
- Upscale Denali trims: For those seeking the ultimate in premium SUV luxury, the GMC Acadia Denali delivers with its perforated leather seats, head-up display, Bose® premium audio system, and real wood trim. The Honda Pilot's range-topping Elite doesn't quite match the GMC Acadia Denali's refinement.
GMC Acadia vs. Hyundai Palisade
A relative newcomer on the scene, the Hyundai Palisade has won praise for its upscale design, smooth ride quality, and generous feature content for the money. But the 2025 GMC Acadia still comes out ahead in several key areas:
- Bigger cargo area: Here again, the GMC Acadia's additional cargo room gives it the edge for hauling family gear. The Palisade measures 18, 46, and 86 cubic feet of storage behind the third, second, and first rows. Advantage Acadia.
- More rugged capability: While the Palisade offers HTRAC all-wheel drive, it's designed more for on-road stability than off-road adventuring. The GMC Acadia AT4's knobbier tires, underbody skid plates, and hill descent control make it the clear choice for heading off the beaten path.
- Hands-free driving: The 2025 GMC Acadia offers Super Cruise® for available hands-free driving on major Ohio highways. There's no comparable feature for the Hyundai Palisade.
- Denali's premium polish: As nice as the Palisade's interior is, especially in the ritzy Calligraphy trim, it still can't quite match the luxurious look and feel of the Acadia Denali with its genuine open-pore wood accents, knurled metal controls, and stitched dashboard trim.
Test Drive the Winning 2025 GMC Acadia at Sims Buick GMC
As this comparison shows, the redesigned 2025 GMC Acadia excels as a spacious, capable, and refined choice in the competitive mid-size three-row SUV segment. With its expanded cargo capacity, larger touchscreens, hands-free driving capabilities, go-anywhere AT4 model, and ultra-luxurious Denali trims, the GMC Acadia bests key rivals like the Honda Pilot and Hyundai Palisade. Experience the Acadia's winning attributes for yourself with a test drive at Sims Buick GMC. We have a great selection of new GMC Acadia SUVs for sale in Warren, OH. Come see why the 2025 GMC Acadia is the ideal family SUV.