What To Know
- When it comes to midsize SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee stand out as two of the most popular and capable options on the market.
- When it comes to towing and hauling, the Ford Explorer boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,800 pounds.
- The Grand Cherokee offers a more advanced four-wheel drive system, a higher ground clearance, and a variety of off-road-oriented features, such as skid plates and hill descent control.
When it comes to midsize SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee stand out as two of the most popular and capable options on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, impressive performance, and a wide range of features, making them ideal for families, adventurers, and everyday commuters alike. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Ford Explorer against the Jeep Grand Cherokee to determine which SUV reigns supreme.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the Ford Explorer offers a choice of two powerful engines: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, or a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, provides a wider range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6 delivering 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, a 5.7-liter V8 producing 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 230 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque.
When it comes to towing and hauling, the Ford Explorer boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,800 pounds. The Jeep Grand Cherokee matches the Explorer’s towing capacity but offers a slightly higher payload capacity of 1,815 pounds. Both SUVs feature four-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction and off-road capability.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee offer spacious and well-appointed cabins. The Explorer provides seating for up to seven passengers with three rows of seats, while the Grand Cherokee offers seating for five or seven passengers depending on the configuration. Both vehicles feature comfortable seats, high-quality materials, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
In terms of cargo space, the Ford Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The Jeep Grand Cherokee provides 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 36.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and 68.3 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
Safety and Technology
The Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Both SUVs also offer a variety of advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
In terms of technology, the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee feature user-friendly infotainment systems with large touchscreens, smartphone integration, and navigation. Both vehicles also offer a variety of connectivity features, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.
Price and Value
The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $33,030, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee starts at $38,695. However, the Grand Cherokee offers a wider range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and budget.
Recommendations: The Verdict – Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee are both excellent choices for midsize SUV buyers. The Explorer offers a more affordable starting price, a powerful engine lineup, and a spacious interior. The Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, provides a wider range of engine and trim options, a more upscale interior, and additional off-road capability. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Ford Explorer or Jeep Grand Cherokee?
A: The Ford Explorer has better fuel economy than the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Explorer’s turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine achieves up to 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the Grand Cherokee’s 3.6-liter V6 engine gets up to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Q: Which SUV has more off-road capability, the Ford Explorer or Jeep Grand Cherokee?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has more off-road capability than the Ford Explorer. The Grand Cherokee offers a more advanced four-wheel drive system, a higher ground clearance, and a variety of off-road-oriented features, such as skid plates and hill descent control.
Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system, the Ford Explorer or Jeep Grand Cherokee?
A: The Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee both have user-friendly infotainment systems with large touchscreens, smartphone integration, and navigation. However, the Explorer’s infotainment system is generally considered to be more intuitive and easier to use.