SUVs have stormed the American car market for several decades, and in the mid-size category, there stand out two historical names: the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Comparison. They are, after all, the epitome of ruggedness, comfort, and advanced features that appeal to families, adventurers, and road-trip enthusiasts alike. But when it comes to the deciding line for the better SUV between Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer? We will dive deep down into the performance, handling, interior, technology, pricing, and safety to get you the best-informed decision.
Performance:
Performance is crucial in an SUV since it determines how the car will perform on different terrains and driving conditions. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer both come well-equipped with fabulous engine options to suit every driving situation; be it the need to cruise around the city or embark on deep off-road escapades.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Performance
Rageable engines and versatility-the Jeep Grand Cherokee indeed casts out. It depends on which you choose, either the standard 3.6L V6, producing 293 horsepower, or the monstrosity of 6.2L supercharged V8 in the Trackhawk model with a sizzling 707 horsepower. No doubt the Grand Cherokee stands supreme in sheer raw power, off-road performance being the plus point, as advanced 4×4 systems like Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II ensure grip on any surface.
Ford Explorer Performance
The Ford Explorer has balanced power and efficiency to deliver a good amount of punch. A base 2.3L EcoBoost engine manages to muster up a respectable 300 horsepower while offering better fuel economy compared to the Grand Cherokee. For those seeking an extra dose of performance, the 3.0L V6 Hybrid takes performance off the limits with 400 horsepower. It is not nearly as aggressive off-road but otherwise excels on the highway as an excellent family car for long road trips.
Handling and Driving Experience
Both cars differ during the drive, largely dependent on the intended user. A Jeep Grand Cherokee is made for off-road enthusiasts, and a Ford Explorer is designed for a comfortable ride in day-to-day commuting.
Handling Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee thrives in a really rugged off-road setting, marking it as the new hotspot for adventure junkies. The Quadra-Lift air suspension comes with an even more ride height adjustable settings for those really tough trails or highway efficiency. The steering is heavier, so drivers have more control over hard terrain, so the feel is even more like a true SUV.
Ford Explorer Handling
While the Ford Explorer does not highlight the off-roading duty, it has been quite a great ride over tarmac roads. The suspension is softer and better for day-to-day commutes and long drives. However, the steering sharp and not as off-road responsive compared with the Grand Cherokee. Really good drive for the city folks or just for someone who’s not serious about off-road capability.
Interior
Comfort, technology, and space will be of major importance in an SUV, since that is where you and your passengers will be spending much of their time. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer both boast expansive cabins but pursue cabin design and comfort in two decidedly different styles.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Interior
The Grand Cherokee’s interior feels more luxurious, with higher-end trims coming with leather upholstery, wood accents, and soft-touch surfaces that really do make the premium feel. It is driver-centric with everything that you might need within easy reach. While the cargo space is slightly smaller compared to the Explorer, it is still huge for most applications, and the rear seats fold down for increased utility.
Ford Explorer Interior
The Ford Explorer is more family-friendly. It seats up to seven and approaches life more utilitarily. Even though the materials are durable and functional, it doesn’t have that luxurious feel of the Grand Cherokee. Cargo space, however, is where the Explorer shines. It can fit more luggage or sports equipment, making it a better choice for a larger family or for those who have hauling needs frequently.
Technology and Features
Modern SUVs are usually loaded to the brim with high-tech gadgetry, and both the Grand Cherokee and Explorer offer a laundry list of such technology.
Technology in the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee features a high-tech experience, with a large 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 system, easy to navigate through. The system features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation is available on more expensive trims. Premium trims also feature a McIntosh sound system, a brand made famous for ensuring that sound systems are delivered with perfection.
Ford Explorer Technology
The Explorer’s tech features are just as impressive with the available SYNC 3 on an 8-10.1-inch touchscreen. The infotainment is quite user-friendly and comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Audiophiles would love the Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, as the quality in sound makes the long rides more palatable.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Pricing
Pricing has remained one of the key issues for the majority of the buyers, and hence both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer have multiple trims. They are handy at different budget levels. The value proposition of both the SUVs depends on the necessity and what is expected.
Ford Explorer Price
The Ford Explorer is a bit cheaper, with the base version starting around $38,000. The top-of-the-line Platinum Hybrid starts around $55,000. The Explorer performs well in providing great value for money for space, tech, and comfort to family buyers but fails on premium features and off-road ruggedness against the Grand Cherokee.
Safety
Safety is always the first concern of any car buyer; both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer have many safety features to protect the driver and passengers.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a complete safety package that has adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The NHTSA ratings show that the Grand Cherokee had earned a 5-star rating on the crash test that makes this vehicle one of the safest SUVs available in its class.
Ford Explorer Safety
The Ford Explorer is even level with the Grand Cherokee as far as safety is concerned, giving identical active driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. In addition, the NHTSA awarded it a 5-star crash rating, ensuring it delivers excellent protection for its drivers and passengers.
Conclusion: Winner of the Century
In the end, it is a matter of your needs and desires when it comes to a choice between Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer. If you want a very rugged off-road-capable SUV with a luxurious interior and powerful engine options, then the Jeep Grand Cherokee has no equal. It is just such an unbeatable combination of performance and luxury that makes it well-suited for a lover of adventure who doesn’t care to sacrifice comfort.
Another case in point is if a consumer values family-friendliness, affordability, and on-road comfort. In that regard, Ford Explorer makes the cut. It has much more interior room, is slightly cheaper, and even floats better over the road. In that regard, they are perfect for a family whose daily commutes and occasional highway travels will require a dependable SUV.
General Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee
While the Ford Explorer may be an excellent family SUV, on the basis of performance and handling, the Jeep Grand Cherokee takes the prize here. This is better to consider when the adventure-seeker wants all this combined with comfort in their vehicle of choice.
