Ranking Every 2025 GMC SUV in Different Space Categories

Ranking Every 2025 GMC SUV in Different Space Categories

GMC has built a reputation for producing rugged yet refined SUVs that cater to a wide range of buyers, from urban commuters to large families needing expansive interiors. In 2025, the brand’s SUV lineup includes the compact Terrain, the mid-size Acadia, and the full-size Yukon and Yukon XL. Each of these models offers distinct advantages in terms of space, seating flexibility, and cargo capacity.

For many buyers in Mississauga, interior space is one of the most important factors when choosing an SUV. Whether it’s ensuring enough headroom for taller passengers, rear legroom for growing kids or adults, wide second-row seating for multiple child seats, or three-row configurations for larger families, space plays a crucial role in overall comfort and usability. Cargo capacity is also a major consideration, especially for those who need to transport gear, groceries, or luggage without sacrificing seating.

In this detailed ranking, we will compare every 2025 GMC SUV across several key space-related categories. We will evaluate headroom in the front, rear, and third rows, rear and third-row legroom, second-row seat width, three-row seating availability, and cargo space with all rows in place. By the end, we’ll determine which model is the most spacious overall and which one best suits different needs.

All measurements are based on GMC Canada specifications and are provided in millimetres (mm) and litres (L).

Headroom Rankings: Front, Rear, and Third Row


Headroom is a crucial factor, particularly for taller drivers and passengers who need enough clearance to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. While front headroom is important for the driver and front passenger, rear headroom matters for second-row passengers, and third-row headroom is essential for those who frequently use all three rows.

Model

Front Headroom (mm)

Rear Headroom (mm)

Third-Row Headroom (mm)

GMC Terrain

970 - 1,015

960 - 995

N/A

GMC Acadia

1,046 - 1,082

970 - 1,017

971 - 979

GMC Yukon

1,026 - 1,074

953 - 988

970

GMC Yukon XL

1,026 - 1,074

953 - 988

970

Analysis

The 2025 GMC Acadia leads in front and rear headroom, making it an excellent choice for taller individuals. However, when it comes to third-row headroom, all three-row models—Acadia, Yukon, and Yukon XL—offer similar dimensions, meaning that the extra row does not significantly compromise vertical space. The Terrain, being a compact SUV, has the least headroom, which might make it less comfortable for taller passengers.

Rear and Third-Row Legroom Rankings


Legroom is one of the biggest comfort factors, particularly for rear passengers on longer journeys. A spacious second row can make a significant difference for passengers of all ages, while third-row legroom is essential for those who frequently transport more than five passengers.

Model

Rear Legroom (mm)

Third-Row Legroom (mm)

GMC Terrain

996

N/A

GMC Acadia

1,053

816

GMC Yukon

1,067

886

GMC Yukon XL

1,067

932

Analysis

When it comes to second-row legroom, the Yukon and Yukon XL are the most generous, providing 1,067 mm, which ensures a comfortable experience for adults and children alike. The Acadia follows closely with 1,053 mm, making it a strong contender in the mid-size category.

In terms of third-row legroom, the Yukon XL is the standout performer, offering 932 mm, the most spacious third-row seating option in GMC’s lineup. The standard Yukon provides 886 mm, which is still respectable. The Acadia, while functional as a three-row SUV, has just 816 mm, making it best suited for children rather than adults. The Terrain, as a two-row model, does not have a third row at all.

Widest Rear Seats in the Second Row (Child Seat Considerations)


Families with young children often need to install multiple car seats in the second row, making seat width a crucial factor. A wider second-row bench allows for easier installation and better accessibility.

Model

Second-Row Seat Width (Shoulder Room, mm)

GMC Terrain

1,415

GMC Acadia

1,575

GMC Yukon

1,643

GMC Yukon XL

1,643

Analysis

The Yukon and Yukon XL offer the most spacious second-row seats at 1,643 mm, making them the best choices for families requiring multiple child seats. The Acadia, with 1,575 mm, is also a strong contender, though slightly narrower. The Terrain, at 1,415 mm, might be more challenging for fitting three car seats across.

Three-Row Seating Availability

For buyers who need more than five seats, only certain GMC SUVs offer a third-row option.

Model

Three-Row Seating

GMC Terrain

No

GMC Acadia

Yes

GMC Yukon

Yes

GMC Yukon XL

Yes

Analysis

If a third-row is necessary, buyers should look at the Acadia, Yukon, or Yukon XL. The Terrain, being a compact SUV, does not offer a third-row option.

Cargo Space with All Rows in Place


Cargo space is essential for families and travellers who need to transport luggage, groceries, or gear while keeping all seats occupied.

Model

Cargo Volume Behind Third Row (L)

GMC Terrain

N/A

GMC Acadia

651

GMC Yukon

722

GMC Yukon XL

1,175

Analysis

The Yukon XL leads in cargo space with 1,175 litres behind the third row, making it the best choice for those who frequently carry both passengers and cargo. The Yukon provides 722 litres, while the Acadia offers 651 litres, which is still decent for a mid-size SUV.

Final Verdict: The Most Spacious GMC SUV

After evaluating all space-related categories, the 2025 GMC Yukon XL is the clear winner. It offers:

  • The most third-row legroom (932 mm), making it the most comfortable for passengers in the back.
  • The widest second-row seats (1,643 mm), making it ideal for child seat installation.
  • The most cargo space behind the third row (1,175 L), ensuring it can handle both passengers and gear with ease.

For those who need a more maneuverable three-row option, the Acadia is a solid alternative. However, if maximum space and versatility are top priorities, the Yukon XL remains the most spacious GMC SUV for 2025.

2025 GMC Yukon XL

2025 GMC Yukon XL
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Photo for illustrative purposes only.

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