Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer: SUV Showdown
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer are top picks in the midsize SUV category. Each has its own set of strengths.
This review looks at their performance, interior, and ability to travel off-road, helping you choose wisely.
When comparing the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer, think about what matters most to your family. Consider seating, safety, and tech features.
If you love weekend getaways or need a dependable ride for everyday use, get to know these SUVs. The Grand Cherokee is known for its off-road skills.
The Explorer offers lots of room for your family and gear. Let’s explore what makes each SUV stand out in this head-to-head matchup.
Introduction To The SUV Comparison
For families looking at SUVs, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer are top picks.
They’re both versatile, perfect for everything from daily drives to off-road adventures. Each has its own special features that suit different drivers.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is known for its ability to go off-road, making it great for adventurous families.
It combines a tough design with smart tech for a comfortable and safe ride. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer offers lots of space and modern features.
It’s for families who want a smooth drive and the latest technology. This article will give you a close look at both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer.
You’ll learn about their performance, interior features, and more. This will help you pick the best SUV for your family.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Overview
The Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a mix of luxury and power. It’s great for families and adventurers. It has a big interior and lots of choices, making it shine among SUVs.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee can fit up to seven people, offering lots of space for everyone and their gear.
Seating and Capacity
The Jeep Grand Cherokee focuses on making everyone comfortable. It has a big, cozy layout for both short trips and long drives.
It’s designed with families in mind, especially those with kids, making it a smart pick.
Trim Levels and Options
It offers eight trim levels, from the Laredo to the fancy Summit Reserve. With many custom options, you can pick the tech and luxury you want.
These choices range from simple to fancy, meeting the needs of all drivers.
Ford Explorer Overview
The Ford Explorer is a great SUV for families. It can seat up to seven people, making it roomy and comfortable.
It is filled with features that families will love. This SUV is equipped to make your drives fun and easy.
Seating and Capacity
The Ford Explorer offers lots of space with its three-row seats. These seats give enough room for passengers and cargo.
It’s perfect for both long trips and quick errands, making every ride comfy and flexible.
Trim Levels and Configurations
The Ford Explorer comes in four trims: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST. Each trim has different features to fit different budgets and wants.
Even though it has fewer options than some rivals, it provides enhancements for an improved drive.
Here’s a brief look at what each trim offers:
| Trim Level | Key Features | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Standard features, spacious seating, basic infotainment system | Starting at $35,000 |
| ST-Line | Tubular roof rails, upgraded tech, sporty design elements | Starting at $41,000 |
| Platinum | Luxury features, premium sound system, advanced safety options | Starting at $54,000 |
| ST | High-performance engine, sport-tuned suspension, aggressive styling | Starting at $50,000 |
With its spacious design and family-friendly features, the Ford Explorer stands out. As you look at the trims, you’ll find the perfect one for your family’s adventures.
Comparison of Performance
Picking between Jeep and Ford means looking at their performance. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer each have unique engine options that affect performance.
These differences could sway your choice depending on how you plan to use your car.
Engines and Powertrain Options
The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, making 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is reliable for many driving situations.
The Ford Explorer, however, has a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. It creates 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, offering a bit more punch, especially when speeding up.
Towing Capacity and Fuel Economy
Towing ability is crucial for many SUV fans. Here, the Grand Cherokee leads with a 6,200 lbs capacity. The Explorer follows with a 5,000 lbs limit.
When it comes to fuel mileage, the Jeep also edges out. It gets an estimated 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.
The Explorer achieves slightly less, with 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. So, if towing and better fuel mileage matter to you, the Grand Cherokee wins in the jeep vs ford rivalry.
| Model | Engine Options | Horsepower | Towing Capacity | Fuel Efficiency (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 3.6L V6 | 293 hp | 6,200 lbs | 19/26 MPG |
| Ford Explorer | 2.3L EcoBoost | 300 hp | 5,000 lbs | 18/25 MPG |
Interior Features and Comfort
Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer blend luxury and functionality inside.
As soon as you get in, you’ll see the differences in their interior designs and materials. These aspects play a big role in how comfortable and enjoyable the car feels.
Quality of Materials and Design
The Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts a luxurious interior. It uses high-end materials like available Palermo leather to create elegance.
You’ll find soft-touch surfaces and detailed craftsmanship that boost the driving pleasure. The Ford Explorer, however, focuses on practicality.
It has a spacious design perfect for families but uses more plastic. This might make it feel less luxurious compared to the Grand Cherokee.
Such differences can influence how you feel on daily drives or long trips.
Technology Integration
Technology is a big deal in these SUVs. The Grand Cherokee has the Uconnect system, which is advanced and easy to use.
It allows voice commands and has a user-friendly touchscreen. The Explorer also has a nice infotainment system but it’s more about being practical.
It might not look as fancy as the Uconnect, but it’s great for staying connected. Both cars have tech features that meet different needs.
Dimensions and Space Analysis
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer are made with families in mind. They have lots of room for passengers and stuff. This look at space will help you decide which SUV is right for you.
Passenger Volume Comparison
Both SUVs offer 152 cubic feet for passengers, making trips comfy. They have good seating that gives everyone enough room.
Cargo Space Specifications
The Ford Explorer has 87.8 cubic feet for cargo, while the Grand Cherokee has 84.6 cubic feet.
This difference matters for loading up on family gear. Knowing this can help you pick the SUV that fits your family’s needs best.
Adventure and Off-Road Capabilities
The Jeep Grand Cherokee shines in adventure with top-notch off-road skills. As a trail-rated SUV, it brings together powerful performance and smart tech.
This makes it great for handling all kinds of tough terrains smoothly.
Trail-Rated Features of The Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is known for its sturdy trail-rated features. They boost its ability to handle rough paths.
Highlights include:
- Selec-Terrain Traction Management System: Offers selectable modes for different driving conditions, ensuring optimal grip and control.
- High Ground Clearance: Provides enhanced approach, departure, and breakover angles, making it suitable for steep inclines and uneven surfaces.
- 4WD Systems: Adaptive and capable, allowing the vehicle to respond to varying terrains effectively.
Explorer’s Terrain Management Systems
The Ford Explorer performs well with its terrain management systems. Though not as extreme as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, it impresses with off-road abilities.
Its key features are:
- Intelligent 4WD: Automatically switches between 2WD and 4WD based on traction needs, enhancing Ford Explorer performance on slippery surfaces.
- Selectable Drive Modes: Provides options for different driving scenarios, boosting confidence during adventures.
- Good Ground Clearance: While lower than its competitor, it still manages to navigate moderate off-road challenges.
Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer: Pricing and Value
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer come with different price tags. The Jeep Grand Cherokee usually costs more due to its deluxe features and luxury options
It’s important to compare the prices of each model’s versions to see what you’re getting for your money.
Base Pricing and Trims
How much you pay at the start is key to finding out which SUV gives you more bang for your buck.
Here’s a quick look at the initial prices for both:
| Model | Base Price | Top Trim Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | $38,000 | $70,000 |
| Ford Explorer | $35,000 | $58,000 |
The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s starting price is higher. This reflects its high status and extra features. Compare this to the Ford Explorer’s lower price to see where your budget fits.
Cost of Ownership Considerations
It’s vital to know the long-term ownership costs. Think about insurance, maintenance costs, and how much value the car loses over time.
Here’s a quick summary for both cars:
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: Higher insurance rates due to its luxury status. Maintenance costs can be elevated, particularly with premium services. Depreciation may vary, but luxury vehicles typically hold value well.
- Ford Explorer: Generally more affordable insurance rates. Maintenance tends to be less costly compared to the Grand Cherokee. The Explorer shows good value retention over time, particularly with popular trims.
Comparing these costs can help you understand the value of each vehicle. A full view of their prices can guide your choice.
Customer Reviews and Reliability
Choosing between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer? Customer reviews and reliability ratings can help a lot.
Each vehicle has its own strengths and weaknesses noted by users. They cover areas like comfort, reliability, and satisfaction.
We’ll dive into what users say about these cars, including their reliability scores. This helps show how they might perform in the long run.
User Feedback on Each Model
The Jeep Grand Cherokee gets praised for its strong build and fancy interior. It’s loved by those who enjoy off-roading and a comfy ride.
Owners say it’s durable, which means it tends to last longer. On the other hand, the Ford Explorer is a hit with families.
It has lots of room for stuff and cool tech features. People like its easy-to-use interior and space that makes everyone comfy.
Reliability Ratings Comparison
Reliability ratings tell us how different the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer are.
The Grand Cherokee often gets good scores for being solid and having fewer mechanical problems. These scores make buyers more confident in this SUV.
The Ford Explorer is also reliable but its performance changes with different model years.
Though users are mostly happy, some engines raise concerns. Reviews help us understand how reliable these SUVs can be over time.
Conclusion
In our SUV showdown, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer both have unique points.
The Grand Cherokee shines for those wanting luxury and off-road prowess. Meanwhile, the Explorer is perfect for families needing space and practicality.
Think about what matters most to you in an SUV. If off-road adventures call your name, the Grand Cherokee is the way to go.
But, if a spacious family ride fits your life, then consider the Explorer. Your personal needs and likes should guide your choice.
Both SUVs offer something special for different kinds of drivers. That means there’s a perfect option out there for you.
FAQs
Q: What are the key differences in performance between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 hp. The Ford Explorer comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that has 300 hp. But, the Grand Cherokee can tow more, up to 6,200 lbs, unlike the Explorer’s 5,000 lbs.
Q: How do the interior materials of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer compare?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts high-quality materials and Palermo leather for a luxury feel. On the other hand, the Ford Explorer uses more plastic, which might not seem as upscale.
Q: How spacious are both SUVs when it comes to passenger and cargo capacity?
A: Both SUVs can fit up to seven passengers, offering 152 cubic feet for passengers. However, the Explorer has more room for stuff, with 87.8 cubic feet over the Grand Cherokee’s 84.6 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV is better suited for off-road adventures?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is better for off-roading, thanks to its Trail-Rated badge and Selec-Terrain system. The Ford Explorer can tackle off-road paths too, but it’s not as equipped for tough terrains.
Q: What is the pricing difference between the two SUVs?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee usually costs more than the Ford Explorer, because of its luxury options and features. Remember to think about other costs like insurance and upkeep over time.
Q: How do customer satisfaction ratings compare for both models?
A: People love the Jeep Grand Cherokee for its strong build and luxury. The Ford Explorer, though, is a hit for its family-friendly design. Look at reliability ratings for more on their long-term use.
Q: What infotainment systems do both SUVs offer?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has the Uconnect system, which is easy to use. The Ford Explorer’s system is practical but might not match the Grand Cherokee’s in sophistication.
