Ford Explorer Vs. Range Rover Discovery: Which Rugged Suv Reigns Supreme On The Road And Off?

When it comes to SUVs that offer a blend of rugged capability and luxurious comfort, the Ford Explorer and Range Rover Discovery stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles have earned a reputation for their impressive performance, spacious interiors, and advanced features. But how do they compare against each other? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Ford Explorer and Range Rover Discovery, helping you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and preferences better.

Performance and Capability

Under the hood, the Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The Range Rover Discovery, on the other hand, comes standard with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine that generates 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Both SUVs are available with all-wheel drive systems, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.

In terms of towing and payload capacity, the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,800 pounds. The Range Rover Discovery boasts a higher towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,650 pounds.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Ford Explorer offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for up to seven passengers. The interior features premium materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a variety of convenience features. The Range Rover Discovery also offers a luxurious and well-appointed cabin with seating for up to seven passengers. It features high-quality materials, a state-of-the-art infotainment system, and a host of advanced comfort and convenience features.

Off-Road Performance

Both the Ford Explorer and Range Rover Discovery are capable off-road vehicles, but the Range Rover Discovery has a slight edge in this area. It features a more advanced terrain response system, which allows drivers to select the optimal settings for different types of terrain. The Land Rover Discovery also has a higher ground clearance and a more sophisticated suspension system, which provides better articulation and stability over rough terrain.

Safety Features

Both the Ford Explorer and Range Rover Discovery come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. The Range Rover Discovery offers a few additional safety features, such as a surround-view camera system and a blind-spot monitoring system.

Price and Value

The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $32,995, while the Range Rover Discovery starts at $53,995. The higher price of the Range Rover Discovery reflects its more luxurious interior, more advanced features, and better off-road capabilities. However, the Ford Explorer offers a more affordable option for those looking for a capable and comfortable SUV.

Fuel Economy

The Ford Explorer with the 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Range Rover Discovery with the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The Ford Explorer has a slight advantage in fuel economy, but the Range Rover Discovery offers more power and torque.

Wrapping Up: Which One Should You Choose?

The Ford Explorer and Range Rover Discovery are both excellent SUVs that offer a blend of capability, comfort, and luxury. The Ford Explorer is a more affordable option with good performance and a spacious interior. The Range Rover Discovery is a more luxurious and capable SUV with a higher price tag. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Which SUV has a better towing capacity?
A1: The Range Rover Discovery has a higher towing capacity of 8,200 pounds compared to the Ford Explorer’s 5,600 pounds.

Q2: Which SUV offers more off-road capability?
A2: The Range Rover Discovery has a more advanced terrain response system and a more sophisticated suspension system, making it better suited for off-road driving.

Q3: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A3: Both SUVs offer spacious interiors, but the Ford Explorer has slightly more cargo space behind the third row of seats.

Q4: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A4: The Range Rover Discovery has a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and more features.

Q5: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A5: The Ford Explorer has a slight advantage in fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway compared to the Range Rover Discovery‘s 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.