2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer

On the hunt for an SUV that’s both highly capable and highly spacious? You’re in luck because the new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the true space of a midsize SUV along with the distinctive rugged capability you can only get from a Jeep. Still, if you’re thinking about buying or leasing the Grand Cherokee, you may also be considering other options like the Ford Explorer. Want to see which SUV is better for your needs, the Explorer or Grand Cherokee? Let’s delve into how these two vehicles compare!

Explorer or Grand Cherokee: Performance

Wondering whether the Ford Explorer or Grand Cherokee provides more power to fuel your Spanaway adventures? Both SUVs are equipped with compelling engines, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee ultimately offers more power. That’s because the Grand Cherokee offers you 4 engine choices, with the highest option delivering 707 hp and the Ford Explorer offers you 3 engine choices, with the highest option delivering 400 hp. If you’re just looking for a fairly powerful SUV, then the base engine in the Explorer or Grand Cherokee could be a good choice. Learn more about your engine choices below:

Jeep Grand Cherokee

3.6L V6 Engine:

• Provides 293 HP and 269 lb-ft of torque
• 19 MPG City/ 26 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 3,500-pound towing capacity

5.7L V8 Engine:

• Provides 360 HP and 390 lb-ft of torque
• 17 MPG City/ 23 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 7,200-pound towing capacity

6.4L HEMI SRT V8 engine:

• Provides 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque
• 13 MPG City/ 19 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 7,200-pound towing capacity

6.2L HEMI V8 engine:

• Provides 707 hp and 645 lb-ft
• 11 MPG City/ 17 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 7,200-pound towing capacity

Ford Explorer

2.3L EcoBoost I-4

• Provides 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
• 21 MPG City/ 28 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 5,300-pound towing capacity

3.0L EcoBoost V6

• Provides 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque
• 18 MPG City/24 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 5,600-pound towing capacity

3.3L Hybrid

• Provides 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque
• 23 MPG City/26 MPG Highway EPA Estimated Fuel Economy
• 5,000-pound towing capacity

Explorer or Grand Cherokee: Off-Road Ability

Want a truly capable SUV? Both the Explorer and Grand Cherokee are unibody crossover SUVs with impressive ground clearance, but only the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers Trail-Rated® designation to go to more places off the beaten path in Lakewood and beyond. What’s more, the Grand Cherokee offers an Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™ which includes:

• AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control ™
• LED Headlamps with Auto High Beams
• Hill Descent Control ™
• 180-degree camera with split-view and washer

What does the Ford Explorer offer? Its Terrain Management System – that has selectable drive modes for up to seven conditions – provides decent off-road-dynamics for your Gig Harbor roads too. Still, we’re inclined to recommend the Grand Cherokee for its truly utilitarian nature and arguably superior off-road features.

Find a Jeep Grand Cherokee at Tacoma Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

Now that you’ve had the chance to explore the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer, do you have any idea which one better suits your needs? If not, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Tacoma Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram for additional assistance picking the perfect SUV for your needs.

Then, when you’re ready, explore our inventory and apply for financing online. We can’t wait to further assist you in finding and financing a new Jeep sometime soon!