When you’re shopping for a midsize SUV, two strong contenders likely on your list are the 2025 GMC Acadia and the Honda Passport. Both SUVs offer solid features, comfort, and power, but which one delivers more value for Erie, Buffalo, and Western New York families?
In this blog, we compare the 2025 Acadia vs Passport matchup across styling, size, performance, tech, and more. Whether you need space for the family or gear for a weekend trip, this midsize SUV battle covers what matters most.
If you’re ready to test-drive the Acadia or want expert help choosing the right trim, reach out to the team at Larry Spacc GMC. We’re proud to serve Western NY drivers with a wide range of options.
Eye-Catching Styling for Modern Midsize SUV Drivers
When shopping for a midsize SUV, exterior design isn’t just about looks—it’s about identity, function, and personality. The 2025 GMC Acadia and the 2025 Honda Passport both deliver bold styling with practical design cues, but they go about it in different ways. Let’s break down how these two SUVs stack up when it comes to exterior style, and what that means for you as a driver.
2025 GMC Acadia: Refined and Trim-Specific
The Acadia’s design is bold but upscale, with each trim offering its own unique flair:
- Elevation: Clean and sporty, with C-shaped LED headlamps and 18″ metallic wheels.
- AT4: Rugged styling with Night Rider chrome, red tow hooks, and dark 18″ wheels on all-terrain tires.
- Denali: Premium touches like animated LED lighting, a Galvano Silver-accented grille, and 22″ machined wheels.
Other standout features include:
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Heated mirrors with turn signals
- Roof rails in gloss black or brushed aluminum
- A variety of modern color options like Volcanic Red Tintcoat
2025 Honda Passport: Rugged and Functional
The Passport leans into a tougher, adventure-ready design with:
- Bold hood/fender lines and honeycomb grille
- 20″ gloss-black wheels (Black Edition)
- TrailSport trim adds skid plates and unique badging for an off-road edge
Functional elements include:
- Heated, power-folding mirrors
- Standard roof rails
- Power tailgate (hands-free on upper trims)
- LED headlights, taillights, and available fog lights
Spacious Cabin Comfort for Growing Families in Buffalo
Inside, the 2025 Acadia offers more room where it matters. With seating for up to eight people, it gives large families room to stretch. The Passport only fits five, making it better suited for smaller households.
If you need flexibility for kids, gear, or carpooling, the Acadia’s third-row space and second-row legroom win.
Cabin perks include:
- Ventilated and heated seat options
- Quiet cabin design
- Premium trims with leather surfaces
Whether you’re headed to a hockey game or a lake trip, the Acadia delivers tech and comfort for every passenger.
Tech and Comfort Features Built for Everyday Convenience
This part of the 2025 Acadia vs Passport comparison may tip the scales for tech lovers.
The Acadia features a massive 15-inch infotainment screen, an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, and an available Head-Up Display. In contrast, the Passport comes with a smaller 8- or 9-inch screen and fewer visual upgrades.
Tech that makes daily driving better:
- Acadia: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports
- Bose® sound system (Acadia)
- Wireless charging pad in both models
In this midsize SUV battle, Acadia shines in both tech and comfort categories.
Power, Performance, and Towing Confidence in Western New York
Both SUVs offer capable engines, but the Acadia pulls ahead in horsepower. Its 328-hp turbocharged engine delivers strong acceleration and great towing ability. The Passport’s 280-hp V6 is solid but less responsive under load.
Both can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but the Acadia does it with more torque.
Performance Comparison:
| Feature | 2025 GMC Acadia | 2025 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 328 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | Higher torque | Lower torque |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
If you’re hauling a trailer through Erie’s rolling hills or heading across town in winter, Acadia’s strength shows up when it counts.
Which SUV Handles Off-Road Adventure Better?
When looking at GMC vs Honda off-road capability, the Passport has a higher ground clearance, giving it an edge for deep snow or uneven trails. However, the Acadia AT4 model includes off-road suspension, underbody protection, and hill descent control.
Drivers in Western NY often need to leave the pavement. Both SUVs are ready, but in this case, your choice depends on the type of adventure you prefer.
Acadia off-road features:
- All-terrain tires
- Drive mode selector
- Trailering tools built-in
While the Passport sits higher, the Acadia brings more tools to the trail.
Fuel Efficiency That Matches Your Driving Priorities
Fuel costs matter, especially with long drives from Buffalo to Erie. The Passport generally gets better MPG, especially in highway driving.
But if you’re hauling gear or passengers, the Acadia’s turbo engine may offer better real-world mileage under load. Both offer FWD and AWD choices.
Who wins this midsize SUV battle in fuel use? The Passport takes the edge, but the Acadia counters with strength.
Interior Cargo Flexibility and Practical Storage
Cargo capacity can be a deal-breaker. The Acadia has more usable space overall thanks to its third-row and power-folding seats. The Passport, while roomy in a two-row setup, lacks the same level of versatility.
Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | GMC Acadia | Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Max Cargo (cu. ft.) | 97.5 cu. ft. | 100.8 cu. ft. |
| Third-Row Option | Yes (Power-fold) | No |
| Load Height | Lower | Higher |
For winter shopping or trips with luggage, the Acadia’s layout offers easier access and flexible storage.
Built-In Safety Tech to Keep Erie Families Protected
Both SUVs offer strong safety packages. The Acadia comes with GMC Pro Safety Plus, while the Passport includes Honda Sensing®.
Key features shared:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
The Acadia adds optional Super Cruise™ for semi-autonomous driving, perfect for long drives on I-90. This level of safety and infotainment gives drivers peace of mind.
Comparing Trim Levels and Pricing for Real Value
Acadia buyers can choose from trims like Elevation, AT4, and Denali. Each brings its own mix of features. The Denali focuses on luxury, while the AT4 gears up for adventure.
The Passport lineup includes EX-L, TrailSport, and Elite. The TrailSport is Honda’s answer to off-road fans.
Price-wise, both brands offer similar entry points. But the Acadia delivers more trim variety and custom options for Western NY drivers.
Which Midsize SUV Is the Smarter Buy for Erie and Buffalo?
When you look at every part of the 2025 Acadia and Passport comparison, the Acadia offers more value for larger families. It wins on space, power, and tech.
The Passport may work better for smaller households who value MPG and ground clearance. But for many in Buffalo and Erie, the Acadia’s blend of comfort and power just fits better.
You want room for all your kids, towing for a small trailer, and something that handles winter roads. The Acadia meets those needs head-on.
FAQs: 2025 GMC Acadia vs 2025 Honda Passport
How do off-road capabilities compare between Acadia and Passport?
The Honda Passport offers stronger off-road capabilities overall due to its higher ground clearance and standard features like Intelligent Traction Management with Snow, Mud, and Sand modes. However, the Acadia AT4 trim comes equipped with an advanced twin-clutch AWD system, off-road suspension, and hill descent control, making it a strong contender in light off-road or snowy conditions. For most Western New York winters, the Acadia AT4 delivers more than enough capability.
What drivetrain options are available?
The 2025 Acadia comes standard with front-wheel drive, but most trims can be upgraded to all-wheel drive (AWD), including a more advanced twin-clutch AWD system on the AT4. The Passport also starts with front-wheel drive on the base EX-L trim and offers AWD as an available option or standard on TrailSport and Elite models.
Which has higher ground clearance?
The Honda Passport has higher ground clearance, measuring approximately 8.1 inches. The 2025 Acadia offers about 7.5 inches of clearance in most trims, though the AT4 version improves this slightly with off-road-tuned suspension. If maximum clearance is your priority for trail or unpaved road access, the Passport holds a slight edge.
How do their tech and comfort amenities differ?
The Acadia is more tech-forward across most trims. It features a 15-inch center touchscreen and an 11-inch digital gauge display, while the Passport maxes out with a 9-inch screen and analog gauges. Comfort features like heated and ventilated front seats, leather-trimmed upholstery, and tri-zone climate control are available on both models. However, the Acadia Denali trim goes further with options like a Head-Up Display and standard Bose® audio system. Overall, the Acadia leads in tech and comfort for families needing connected convenience.
What are their starting prices?
The 2025 GMC Acadia starts at around $43,000 for the Elevation trim and ranges upward for AT4 and Denali models. The 2025 Honda Passport starts slightly lower, with the EX-L trim priced around $42,400. While both SUVs are comparably priced at higher trim levels, the Acadia offers more passenger capacity and features at its starting price, making it a stronger value for larger households.
More Ways to Shop and Compare at Larry Spacc GMC
Choosing between the 2025 GMC Acadia and the Honda Passport is no small task, especially when both vehicles offer solid performance, innovative tech, and flexible space for families or weekend adventurers. Still, if you’re looking for a versatile midsize SUV that can handle tough Erie winters, long drives around Buffalo, and the rugged beauty of Western New York, the Acadia stands out in all the right ways.
We invite drivers throughout Erie, Buffalo, and the surrounding areas to explore our wide selection of GMC vehicles online or in person. Whether you’re drawn to Acadia’s elevated tech and comfort or its bold styling and towing confidence, Larry Spacc GMC is here to help you find the perfect fit.
If you’re ready to move forward, you can easily get started with our secure finance application and explore our latest new GMC inventory on our website. Everything you need, from comparing trims to booking a test drive—is just a click away.
And if you’re thinking about upgrading your current vehicle, now may be the perfect time to act. If you’re wondering whether now’s the right time to upgrade based on market value trends, we’ve got insights that can help. You may also want to learn how to trade in your current vehicle even with a loan balance, or understand how accident history impacts trade-ins, all of which can influence your decision as you prepare for your next SUV.
Your next adventure starts at Larry Spacc GMC. Reach out today or stop by to take the 2025 Acadia for a test drive and see firsthand what makes it a standout choice in this midsize SUV battle.
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