If you’re considering which SUV will better suit your new car needs between the 2023 Ford Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, you can’t deny that both vehicles offer similar features. However, the Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with several advantages that make it a more compelling choice for new buyers, and we’ll show you why in your comparison guide.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Both the Ford Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee offer similar gas mileage.
- More towing capacity with the Grand Cherokee despite more engine options with the Explorer.
- The Explorer is a big car, making handling a little more challenging in tight spaces.
A DIFFERENCE IN STATURE
One of the most notable differences that these two cars offer is their size comparison. Hands down, the Explorer is a giant SUV. And while that does translate to more cargo space, it may not be what every family needs. Both cars can fit up to seven passengers extremely comfortably. If you know at any given point in time, you need enough space for 5 to seven passengers at the maximum, the Grand Cherokee is the better choice because its smaller size emphasizes daily functionality. It’s going to be easier to navigate the school drop-off and crowded parking lots with the Grand Cherokee taking up five inches less in length and a couple inches less in width than the Explorer.
POWER & TOWING CAPACITY: BIGGER DOESN’T MEAN BETTER
If you have towing requirements, the Jeep Grand Cherokee shines in this department. Despite the Ford having more engine options that surpass the horsepower capability of the Grand Cherokee, the Grand Cherokee does have a higher towing capacity than the Ford Explorer. That means it is the better SUV for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other heavy loads. It’s going to be a better companion for all outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The Grand Cherokee’s powertrains are as listed:
- 293-hp, 3.6-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine
- 357-hp, 5.7-liter, 8 Cylinder Engine
The Explorer comes with three engines options:
- 300-hp, 2.3-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine
- 318-hp, 3.3-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine
- 400-hp, 3.0-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine
The Grand Cherokee still shines in the power train department. For most drivers, it is going to be enough to get them where they need to be. The mid-tier engine offers an advantage over the Ford by being the more powerful mid-tier choice, with reasonable horsepower for an engine of its size.
TECH AND ENTERTAINMENT
This is where a lot of the overlap occurs between these two cars. They share a lot of the same features across their different trim levels. However, there is one defining factor that sets the Cherokee apart. It offers the availability of a Wi-Fi hotspot, and in this tech-hungry world, it’s a great option for your passengers on long-road trips that the Explorer doesn’t have. Either SUV has key safety features that include brake assistance, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance. They both offer Apple Car Play and Android Auto for entertainment purposes making hands-free music playing a breeze.
WHICH SUV IS BEST?
Our choice is the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Jeep Grand Cherokee starts at around $41,000, for this price, it’s in the same range as a Ford Explorer. Considering the advantages it has, including its superior towing capacity with solid, yet powerful engine options, the Grand Cherokee represents excellent value for buyers in 2023. The Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to stand out above the Explorer as a versatile SUV that caters to the needs of both families and those seeking a reliable, capable vehicle.