How Big is the GMC Acadia vs Buick Enclave?

The 2025 SUV Size Showdown Starts Here

When you’re planning trips to Presque Isle, getting through snow in Buffalo, or loading up the car for a weekend in Western New York, space can’t be an afterthought. Whether it’s for kids, gear, or the occasional Costco run, the size of your SUV affects everything from comfort to convenience. And when it comes to room to stretch out or pack in, the 2025 lineup offers two bold options worth your time.

Both the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave are three-row SUVs built to handle your day-to-day life with ease. But how they make room for people and cargo? That’s where things get interesting.

If you’re trying to decide which one fits your needs best, visit or contact Larry Spacc GMC. Our team is here to walk you through both models and help you find the right SUV for your family.

Here’s a look at how these two stack up on size:

Measurement	2025 GMC Acadia	2025 Buick Enclave
Overall Length	204.0 in	204.0 in
Width (without mirrors)	79.7 in	78.8 in
Height	70.4 in	70.3 in
Wheelbase	121.0 in	120.9 in
Max Cargo Volume	97.5 cu. ft.	97.5 cu. ft.
Seating Capacity	Up to 7	Up to 7

Comparing Overall Dimensions: Acadia vs Enclave

If you’re shopping for a mid-size SUV, size is a good place to start. Length, width, and height all affect how a vehicle drives and feels. It can also impact how easy it is to park in tight lots across Buffalo or load up before a family trip out of Erie.

Both the Acadia and Enclave are built with three-row seating in mind. But for 2025, there are a few big changes that help set them apart.

Let’s take a look at their key exterior measurements:

The numbers are close — but those small gaps matter. The Acadia grew for 2025. It’s now over 10 inches longer than the previous version, and that change helps make the third row much more usable. The added wheelbase means more legroom and better ride feel, especially when all three rows are full.

Here’s how size impacts your drive:

• Longer SUVs like the Acadia help with stability and ride smoothness.
• Wider models give more shoulder room in the second and third rows.
• Higher vehicles offer better road visibility and easier entry for tall passengers.
• Wheelbase length affects cabin layout and helps with second-row and third-row legroom.

If you’re focused on getting a true three-row SUV without stepping into full-size territory, the 2025 Acadia brings more space than before. Its longer body and wider stance work well for families who need room but don’t want to give up maneuverability.

And while the Enclave may not be wider, it still uses its space with care. It leans more into comfort than flexibility. Each vehicle serves a different goal — and the choice depends on what matters most to you and your crew.

Third-Row Seating: Which SUV Really Fits the Whole Family?

The Acadia was redesigned for 2025, and that includes a big update to the cabin layout. It now gives more legroom, more width, and easier access to the rear row. With the third row up, the space still feels open. It’s a great choice for carpooling in Buffalo or driving friends and family across town.

The Enclave focuses more on smooth design and quiet comfort. Its cabin size hasn’t changed much for 2025, but it’s still roomy and refined. The third row is usable, though not quite as open as the Acadia’s new layout.

Here’s a look at third-row space and comfort:

Feature	Acadia (2025)	Enclave (2025)
Third-Row Legroom	Improved with redesign	Adequate but tighter
Shoulder Room in Third Row	More space per seat	Slightly more narrow
Access to Third Row	Wide pass-through	Moderate
Third-Row Seating Type	60/40 split bench	60/40 split bench

Why It Matters for Your Daily Life

• Carpooling: You can fit up to seven people in either SUV, but the Acadia gives taller riders more comfort in the back.
• School Runs: The Acadia’s wide door openings and flat-folding second row make it easier for kids to climb in and out.
• Weekend Trips: If you’re loading friends, gear, and snacks for a long ride, a more open third row makes a big difference.

The Acadia’s new layout gives it an edge for families who plan to use that third row often. It’s more than just an extra seat—it’s part of the daily drive.

If you want one of the best 3-row SUVs in Erie NY, this could be the deciding factor. Whether you’re headed to hockey practice or loading up for a fall drive through Western New York, that third-row design can make or break your trip.

Need space for full-size passengers in all three rows? The Acadia is built with that in mind. It’s one of the few midsize options where even the third row feels like it belongs.

Cargo Capacity: Packing Power in Both SUVs

You don’t need a full-size SUV to carry a full load. The right midsize SUV can fit your gear, your kids’ sports bags, and the week’s groceries—without breaking a sweat. That’s where smart storage design matters.

Both of these SUVs offer plenty of room. In fact, they match on paper with up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space when all rows are folded down. But how you reach that space and how easy it is to use? That’s where the small details come in.

Let’s compare what that looks like in real life:

Feature	Acadia (2025)	Enclave (2025)
Max Cargo Volume	97.5 cu. ft.	97.5 cu. ft.
Rear Opening Height	Wide, squared opening	Rounded with angled corners
Access Behind Third Row	Improved due to longer body	Adequate but tighter gap
Seats Fold Flat	Yes, all rows	Yes, all rows
Underfloor Storage	Available	Available

The Acadia’s longer wheelbase gives it an edge when it comes to floor length and ease of loading. That extra space makes it easier to slide in long gear—like skis or folding tables—without having to angle them awkwardly.

Here’s what you can fit, based on real use:

• Weekend in the Adirondacks: Three duffel bags, two coolers, and a small tent fit behind the second row.
• Hockey practice in Buffalo: Gear for two kids, a collapsible bench, and a folding wagon can fit with the third row down.
• Grocery haul in Erie: With the third row up, there’s still enough space for 6-8 full bags plus a stroller.

Everyday Usability Counts

It’s not just about the big trips. What makes these SUVs strong is how they handle daily use.

• Seats fold with one-touch release.
• There’s enough floor height to load heavy items without strain.
• Storage bins help keep gear from rolling around.

For drivers near Erie who need an SUV with a large cargo area, both models deliver. But the Acadia’s longer frame and new layout help it feel more open—especially when the third row is folded. If your day-to-day needs change often, or if you carry gear for sports, work, or travel, that flexibility adds real value.

You don’t always need the biggest SUV on the road. You just need one that knows how to use its space.

Passenger Comfort and Interior Layout

In this SUV size face-off, numbers only tell part of the story. The real difference is how each cabin feels once you climb inside.

Both of these three-row SUVs seat up to seven, and each is built to keep your ride smooth and quiet. But the approach to comfort and layout is where they start to drift apart.

The Acadia leans into smart tech and bold shapes. Its screens are large, its lines are sharp, and the controls feel made for ease of use. In contrast, the Enclave focuses on a calm, upscale look, with soft curves and more refined textures.

Seating Options That Work for Families

Feature	Acadia	Enclave
Second-Row Seating	Bench or captain’s chairs	Bench or captain’s chairs
Third-Row Access	Walk-through or tip-and-fold	One-touch slide
Front Seat Features	Heated, ventilated, power adjust	Heated, massaging, power adjust
Upholstery Options	Cloth to premium leather	Leather across all trims

Interior Touches That Add Real Value

Here are a few ways each cabin meets everyday needs:

• Kid-friendly features: Both models include rear seat USB ports, easy-clean surfaces, and quiet cabins for nap time.
• Storage cubbies: The Acadia’s floating console adds a storage shelf beneath, perfect for bags or tablets. The Enclave features a deep center bin for bulkier items.
• Interior lighting: The Acadia keeps it simple but modern, while the Enclave offers color-shifting ambient lights that change the mood after dark.
• Quiet ride: Each SUV has active noise control to cut road sound, though the Enclave aims more at a luxury feel.

If you’re looking for a comfortable 3-row SUV in Buffalo or the surrounding area, both choices deliver. But which one fits your lifestyle better depends on what you value most—modern tech and smart design, or plush finishes and soft lighting. Either way, your passengers are in good hands.

Parking, Driving, and Everyday Usability

A big SUV should not be a big hassle. Whether you’re squeezing into a tight spot near downtown Erie or backing out of a crowded grocery lot in Western New York, the right features make all the difference.

Parking-Friendly Features That Help

Parking a midsize SUV doesn’t have to be stressful. Each model brings smart tools to help you get in and out of tight spots:

• HD Surround Vision: Gives you a bird’s-eye view when backing up.
• Rear Camera Mirror: Available in the Acadia for better rear visibility in low light.
• Head-Up Display: Projects speed and key info onto the windshield—less head movement, more focus.
• Super Cruise: Hands-free tech for long drives on approved highways, now available on both models.

The GMC Acadia camera views are especially helpful, with up to 9 available angles to help avoid curbs, poles, or other cars. For a large SUV, this is a huge help in city lots or school pickup zones.

A Smooth Drive for Every Setting

Both vehicles do well on highways, but their feel is different:

• The Acadia has a more connected, driver-focused layout. You feel in control, even when hauling a full cabin.
• The Enclave leans more into comfort, softening bumps and staying quiet at speed.

Looking for an SUV for city and highway driving in places like Buffalo or Erie? Either model fits the bill. But with extra cameras, hands-free tech, and more third-row usability, the Acadia stands out in day-to-day driving.

For families or professionals who want midsize SUV Super Cruise features near Erie, these new 2025 models hit the mark. And when the drive is easy, everything else just works better.

Which SUV Offers More Flexibility for Growing Families?

Families grow. Needs change. The SUV you choose today should still work for you years from now. That’s why flexibility is key—room to grow, space to store, and features that adapt.

Both of these three-row SUVs offer strong family value, but the way they support busy, active lives in Western New York is not quite the same.

Key Features for Family Flexibility

Feature	Acadia (2025)	Enclave (2025)
Fold-Flat Rear Seats	Yes, in all rows	Yes, in all rows
Third-Row Access	Wide entry, flexible layout	Smooth, but slightly tighter
Max Cargo Space	97.5 cu. ft.	97.5 cu. ft.
Towing Capacity	Up to 5,000 lbs (with trailering pkg)	Towing capability available
Trims for Different Needs	Elevation, AT4, Denali	Preferred, Sport Touring, Avenir

The Acadia lineup covers a wide range of lifestyles. Want something rugged? The AT4 trim brings off-road upgrades for family fun in any season. Looking for luxury? The Denali trim adds upscale details, premium leather, and cutting-edge tech.

The Enclave leans more into premium style. The Avenir trim feels almost like a luxury SUV, while the Sport Touring model adds bold design. Both are strong options for drivers who want a sleek, quiet ride with style built in.

Built for the Long Haul

Here’s what growing families near Erie or Buffalo should consider:

• Kids now, teens later: Wider cabins and more legroom matter more each year.
• Big gear: Sports bags, strollers, camping tools—flat-folding seats help with all of it.
• Road trips: Look for comfort, space, and smart tech that keeps things smooth and stress-free.

If you’re comparing the best SUV for active families in Western NY, the choice depends on how you plan to use your vehicle. The Enclave is stylish and smooth. But the Acadia brings more layout options, wider seating, and better access to the third row.

For many growing families, those extras add up fast. So whether you’re dropping kids off at school or heading to the lake for the weekend, the right SUV should make life easier—not more crowded.

Need a 3-row family SUV near Erie that fits your future, not just your now? The 2025 Acadia is built for that.

How do the overall lengths compare—Acadia at 204.0 in vs Enclave at 207.6 in?

The Acadia is 204.0 inches long, while the Enclave is longer at 207.6 inches.

What are their respective wheelbases (Acadia 120.9 in vs Enclave 120.9 in)?

Both the Acadia and the Enclave have the same wheelbase of 120.9 inches.

How does third-row legroom stack up between the two SUVs?

The Acadia offers more third-row legroom than before thanks to its 2025 redesign, while the Enclave’s third row remains slightly tighter. Exact measurements have not been provided for direct comparison.

Which offers more maximum cargo volume—Acadia’s 97.5 cu ft vs Enclave’s 97.5 cu ft?

Both the Acadia and Enclave offer the same maximum cargo volume: 97.5 cubic feet.

How do their shoulder and hip room figures differ in the front and rear rows?

Specific shoulder and hip room numbers for the 2025 models were not provided in the available materials. Please share the detailed interior specs so we can accurately compare.

Ready to Compare the 2025 Acadia and Enclave in Person?

Still trying to figure out which SUV gives your family the best fit? Sometimes, the best way to decide is to get behind the wheel.

If you’re near Erie, Western New York, or Buffalo, stop by Larry Spacc GMC to take a closer look at the 2025 Acadia, including models with third-row seating. From flexible layouts to smart tech, we’re here to help you find the SUV that meets your needs today—and tomorrow.

Ready for a test drive? View our GMC Acadia dealer near Erie inventory and find the trim that’s right for your lifestyle.

If you’re still weighing your options beyond the Enclave, don’t miss our other helpful resources. We’ve compared this SUV with several well-known models to help you decide what fits best for your family. Learn more by checking out our guide on how it compares to the Honda Pilot, Honda CR-V, and Honda Odyssey.

Visit Larry Spacc GMC to speak with our team, schedule a test drive, or browse our latest inventory. Whether you’re comparing models or ready to buy, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Disclaimer: All information is provided for general informational and entertainment purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all content is complete, current, or error-free. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. This article may include opinions and is not endorsed by, or officially affiliated with, any vehicle manufacturer or brand. Always consult official sources – such as the vehicle’s owner’s manual, authorized dealerships, or certified professionals – for the most up-to-date and personalized information.

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