2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer

If you are on the hunt for a new SUV that can take on off-road adventures and corporate outings without missing a beat, it is wise to consider the Jeep Grand Cherokee. A natural competitor for the Grand Cherokee is the Ford Explorer. Both models offer powerful performance, expansive interiors, and connectivity features. But which SUV offers the best value and overall package, Explorer or Grand Cherokee? Closely compare the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer with Midway Auto Dealerships today to find the model that suits your budget and lifestyle best!

Explorer or Grand Cherokee: Performance

When comparing the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer, you will notice that the base-level models offer some striking similarities. However, upon further examination, you see that the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee pulls out ahead. With four Jeep Grand Cherokee engine options to choose from, Grand Island drivers may be disappointed by the slender three engine offering available from Ford. Not only does Jeep offer more engine quantity, but quality too. When you look at the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer, the top-level Jeep engine nearly doubles the horsepower offered by the Ford, giving the Grand Cherokee more towing power. Other important performance specs to note when discerning Explorer or Grand Cherokee include:

Jeep Grand Cherokee

3.6L V6 Engine:

• 293 hp
• 269 lb-ft of torque
• 19 mpg City/ 26 mpg Highway EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy
• 3,500-pound towing capacity

5.7L V8 Engine: 

• 360 hp
• 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:

• 475 hp
• 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:

• 707 hp
• 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

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

3.0L EcoBoost V6

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

3.3L Hybrid

• 318 hp
• 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

If the supremacy of the Grand Cherokee is not already glaring, the facts will be obvious once we break down the off-road capabilities offered by this rugged Jeep SUV. The Grand Cherokee allows you to blaze a new trail while remaining comfortable and secure in your well-appointed cabin. The Ford Explorer simply can’t match the legendary Jeep 4×4 technology or the Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™ offered on the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This system offers some astounding performance and safety benefits including:

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

While the Ford Explorer does produce its own off-road system – the Terrain Management System – it fails to keep up with the capabilities of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Side-by-side performance comparisons favor the Jeep Grand Cherokee every time.

Find a Jeep Grand Cherokee at Midway Auto Dealerships

As your Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer comparison draws to a close, it is easy to see that the Jeep reigns supreme. Thanks to more robust off-roading features, stronger engine specs, and advanced trailering abilities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the ideal vehicle for Holdrege adventurers. What’s more, when you bring home this rugged and stylish SUV, you can join the Jeep family and wave to Jeep drivers all throughout Hastings and Kearney. You can contact us today to learn more about this stunning SUV, or you can apply for financing if you are ready to buy!