When it comes to midsize SUVs, two names stand out—Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer. Both offer a mix of performance, technology, comfort, and capability, but they cater to different driving needs. Whether you’re looking for off-road ruggedness, a luxurious daily driver, or a family-friendly SUV, choosing the right one depends on your priorities. Champion CDJR is here to break down how these two popular SUVs compare in key areas.

Performance & Powertrain Options

Jeep Grand Cherokee: Power and Off-Road Mastery

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers multiple powertrain options, allowing buyers to balance power, efficiency, and capability:

• 3.6L Pentastar® V6 (293 hp, 260 lb-ft torque) – A reliable, well-balanced engine for everyday driving.
• 2.0L Turbo PHEV (4xe) (375 hp, 470 lb-ft torque) – A plug-in hybrid option that offers 25 miles of all-electric range and impressive torque for off-road adventures.
• Quadra-Trac® 4WD Systems – Available in multiple configurations to enhance off-road capability.

With its Trail Rated® capability, the Grand Cherokee stands out as the better option for those seeking off-road dominance and all-weather reliability.

Ford Explorer: Performance for the Highway

The Ford Explorer also comes with a variety of engine options, prioritizing road performance:

• 2.3L EcoBoost® I4 (300 hp, 310 lb-ft torque) – A fuel-efficient base engine with solid power.
• 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft torque) – Found in the Explorer ST, providing a sportier feel for highway driving.
• 3.3L Hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft torque) – A hybrid option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency over power.

The Explorer is tuned for on-road comfort, with rear-wheel drive standard and available all-wheel drive (AWD) for added traction. It delivers quicker acceleration in its top trims, but lacks the off-road prowess of the Grand Cherokee.

Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee

For those who value off-road capability, towing power, and hybrid efficiency, the Grand Cherokee takes the lead. The Explorer’s sporty ST trim may be more appealing for highway drivers looking for a speedier ride.

Interior Comfort & Space

Jeep Grand Cherokee: Premium and Versatile

Jeep has made the Grand Cherokee’s interior more luxurious than ever, with high-end materials and advanced technology:

• Available Quilted Palermo Leather Seats – Elevates the cabin with soft-touch materials and refined craftsmanship.
• 10.1-Inch Uconnect® 5 Touchscreen – Fast and intuitive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™.
• 16-Way Adjustable Front Seats with Massage Function – Available in high-end trims for added comfort.
• Two-Row or Three-Row (Grand Cherokee L) Configuration – Choose between a 5-passenger or 7-passenger layout.

Ford Explorer: Spacious and Practical

The Ford Explorer prioritizes family-friendly space with a standard three-row layout and functional design:

• Standard Three-Row Seating – Seats up to 7 passengers with a second-row bench or captain’s chairs.
• 10.1-Inch SYNC® 3 Touchscreen – Provides smartphone integration and navigation but isn’t as refined as Uconnect®.
• PowerFold® Third Row – Folds flat for extra cargo space when needed.

Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee

While the Explorer offers more standard passenger space, the Grand Cherokee provides superior luxury, tech, and seating flexibility—especially with the Grand Cherokee L option.

Technology & Safety Features

Both SUVs come equipped with modern tech and driver-assist features, but the Grand Cherokee pulls ahead with more premium and intuitive options.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Technology

• Uconnect® 5 with Optional 10.1-Inch Display – Faster, more customizable, and user-friendly interface.
• Available Passenger Interactive Display – A unique screen for the front passenger to access entertainment and navigation.
• Available 19-Speaker McIntosh® Audio System – Delivers an immersive, high-quality sound experience.
• Advanced Safety Features – Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Active Lane Management, and Night Vision Assist.

Ford Explorer Technology

• SYNC® 3 Infotainment System – Responsive, but lacks the refinement of Uconnect®.
• Standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ – Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Lane-Keeping Assist.
• Bang & Olufsen® Audio System – Premium sound system, but less powerful than Jeep’s McIntosh® system.

Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee’s high-end tech and available passenger display make it the better pick for tech-savvy drivers.

Off-Road Capability & Towing

Jeep Grand Cherokee: Trail-Tested Toughness

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the clear winner for off-road capability, offering:

• Quadra-Trac® & Quadra-Drive® 4WD Systems – Advanced off-road tech for superior traction.
• Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension – Raises the vehicle for improved clearance on rocky terrain.
• Selec-Terrain® System – Adjustable drive modes for Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock, and Auto.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 7,200 lbs – Outperforms the Explorer for hauling trailers and boats.

Ford Explorer: Light Off-Road Capability

The Explorer is designed for road performance, but its Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™ does offer some off-road adaptability.

• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,600 lbs – Decent, but falls short of the Grand Cherokee.
• Terrain Modes: Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, and Slippery – Not as robust as Jeep’s Selec-Terrain®.

Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee

If you need a serious off-roader with best-in-class towing, the Grand Cherokee is the top choice. The Explorer works for occasional outdoor adventures but lacks true Trail Rated® performance.

Final Verdict: Which SUV Should You Choose?

Buy the Jeep Grand Cherokee if you want:

• Best-in-class off-road capability and towing.
• A luxurious and high-tech interior.
• Hybrid efficiency (4xe plug-in hybrid option).
• A balance between two-row and three-row options (Grand Cherokee L).

Buy the Ford Explorer if you want:

• A standard three-row SUV.
• A sportier feel with the ST trim.
• A slightly lower starting price.

At Champion CDJR, we’re proud to offer the Jeep Grand Cherokee—the SUV that blends rugged capability with premium comfort. Visit our dealership today to test drive the Grand Cherokee and see why it stands out as the best midsize SUV for Houston drivers.