Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer: Which is Better?

Choosing between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer is always a challenge. At first glance, both vehicles offers a comfortable spacious interior, high-tech features,  and an available 4x4 system. However if you take a close look you'll quickly notice that both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer are engineered with different drivers in mind. For instance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is built drivers that want a stronger max towing capacity, and  greater 4x4 off-road capability. When properly equipped the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a max towing capacity of 6,200 lbs. In comparison, the Ford Explorer prioritizes family with three-row seven passenger seating, generous legroom, and ample cargo space. So which SUV is the best for you?
 
Quick Answer: If you're looking for a reliable 4x4 SUV with more capability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is perfect for you.. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers several 4x4 systems and the Ford Explorer has been optimized for one 4x4 system.  On the flip side, if you're looking for a 4x4 SUV with more space, the Ford Explorer might peak your interest. 

Comparing Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Specs & Features

Side by side, the Jeep Grand Cherokee  and the Ford Explorer both a extensive list of features and capabilities. Here's a quick breakdown of the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford prices, specs, features, and dimensions. 
 Category  Jeep Grand Cherokee  Ford Explorer 
 Engine  3.6L V6 24V VVT Pentastar® Engine with Stop/Start2.3L Turbocharged, Direct Injection Ti-VCT EcoBoost® I-4
 Horsepower  293 @ 6,400RPM 300 @ 5,500 rpm* (Winner) 
 Torque  257 @ 4,000RPM 310 @ 3,500 rpm*  (Winner)
 Max Towing Capacity  6,200 lbs.  (Winner)  5,000 lbs.
 May Payload  1,160 lbs.  1,800 lbs.( Winner )
 Max Passenger Capacity  7 7
 First-Row Legroom  41.30-inches 43-inches  ( Winners )
 Second-Row Legroom  38.20-inches (Winner) 37.5-inches 
 Third-Row Legroom   37.8 inches 
 Cargo Volume Behind First row  70.80 cubic-feet  85.8 cubic feet (Winner)
 Cargo Volume Behind Second Row  37.30 cubic-feet  46 cubic feet  (Winner)
 Cargo Volume Behind Third Row               16.3 cubic feet 
 Touchscreen Display  Uconnect® 5 with 8.4-Inch Touch Screen Display 13.2" center display (Winner)
 Speakers  6-Speakers  6-Speakers 
 Length  193.50 inches  198.7 inches  (Winner)
 Width  77.50 inches  89.3 inches  (Winner)
 Height  70.80 inches  69.6 inches  (Winner)
 Wheelbase  116.70-inches 119.1 inches  (Winner)
 Ground Clearance 8.4-inches (Winner) 7.6 inches 
 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Pros and Cons

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2024 Ford Explorer Jeep Grand Cherokee Pros
  • Excellent Off-Road Handling Capabilities
  • Comfortable Ride And Handling
  • Multiple 4x4 Off-Road Handling Systems
  • Max Towing Capacity of up 6,000 pounds through 7,200 pounds 
  • Luxury Interior
  • Strong Reliability
  • Top Safety Pick Plus 
Jeep Grand Cherokee Cons 
  • Limited Cargo Space 2-Row Models
  • Reduced Fuel Economy 
Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand CherokeeFord Explorer Pros
  • Potent Four And Six Cylinder Engines 
  • balanced and Sporty Handling 
  • Dynamic Off-Road Handling Capabilities 
  • User-Friendly Infotainment System 
  • Posh Cabin With Comfortable Seating
Ford Explorer Cons 
  • Subpar Interior Quality 
  • Limited Third-Row Legroom
  • Confusing Infotainment System 
  • High Base Price 
  • V8 Engine No Longer Available 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer: Which SUV Has The Highest Max Towing Capacity? 

If towing is your top priority, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the best option for you. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a max towing capacity of 6,200 lbs., which is perfect to hauling ATVs, small campers, and boats. On the other hand, the Ford Explorer has a max towing capacity of 5,000 lbs., which is slightly less than the Jeep Grand Cherokee's max towing capacity. 

Conclusion: If you're looking for the best way to haul all of your extra cargo, the Jeep Grand Cherokee  is the best option for you.

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer: Which SUV Has Packs More Power? 

If you're looking for a new SUV with more power, the new Ford Explorer is winner. On tap, the new Ford Explorer 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of  torque. In comparison, the Jeep Grand Cherokee  offers a 293 horsepower  3.6L V6 24V VVT Pentastar® Engine  with 297 lb.-ft. of torque. 

Conclusion: If you're looking for a new SUV with a little more pep, the new Ford Explorer is the upper choice. In fact, the Ford Explorer makes it easier to climb up steep hills, and merge through busy highway traffic.

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Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Interior Features 

   
 Interior Features  Jeep Grand Cherokee  Ford Explorer 
 8.4-inch Touchscreen Display  Standard Not Available 
Uconnect® 5 Nav with 10.1-Inch Touch Screen Display Available  Not Available 
 SYNC® 3 with 10.1" LCD Capacitive Touchscreen Not Available  Standard
 6 Speakers  Standard Standard 
 9 Amplified Speakers  Available Not Available 
 19-Speakers  Available Not Available 
 B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 12 Speakers Including Subwoofer Not Available  Available
 Wireless Charging Pad Available  Available 
   
 
When it comes down to the interior, the Ford Explorer comes standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display and the Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display. Jeep Grand Cherokee upgrades include a 10.1-inch touchscreen display.

In terms of speakers, both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer come standard with a six speaker audio system. The Jeep Grand Cherokee upgrades include 9 amplified speakers with a subwoofer. The Ford Explorer upgrades include a 12-speaker audio system.

To learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee interior features and the Ford Explorer interior features, visit our local Jeep Grand Cherokee dealer near you. 
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Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Safety Features 

So, you want to know the difference between the Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Features and the Ford Explorer safety features? Here's a quick way to compare the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer Safety features: 



Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Features

  • Blind-Spot Monitoring And Cross Path Detection 
  • Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking & Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection 
  • LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop And Go
  • PARKVIEW® Rear Back Up Camera with PARKSENSE Rear Park Assist
  • Hands-Free Active Driving Assist System
  • 360º Surround View Camera
  • Drowsy Driver Detection 
  • Night Vision 
  • Parallel And Perpendicular Park Assist 


Ford Explorer Safety Features 

  • Rear-View Camera
  • Lane-Keeping Assist
  • Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Blind Spot Monitoring System

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Reliability

The Jeep Grand Cherokee's top priority is reliability. To prove it, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has undergone a series of rigorous test to earn Jeep's legendary Trail Rated Badge. In addition to that, with each new Jeep Grand Cherokee lease or purchase, Jeep automatically enrolls shoppers in the Jeep Wave Customer Care program which offers 24/7 customer support,  worry free maintenance at non additional cost according to membership terms, and vehicle protection. To continue, the Jeep Grand Cherokee also comes equipped with the most standard and available features in it's class. Not to mention, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most advanced SUV ever.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Final Decision

In conclusion, the Jeep Grand Cherokee surpasses the Ford Explorer in road handling , towing, safety features, and luxury features. To achieve this, the Jeep Grand Cherokee comes available with three 4x4 systems, an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, and a max towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. In addition to that, the Jeep Grand Cherokee also comes available with more available options than the Ford Explorer. To learn more visit our local Jeep Grand Cherokee dealership conveniently located at 17225 Torrence Avenue, Lansing, IL 60438. Of course if you don't want to wait to stop in, call or apply online for a test drive today. 


Jeep Grand Cherokee Photos vs Ford Explorer Photos: First Look

Jeep Grand Cherokee Exterior Front Ford Explorer Exterior Front
 Jeep Grand Cherokee Exterior Rear  Ford Explorer Exterior Rear 
 

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