Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee
Are you looking for an off-road-capable vehicle that's not only safe but can handle the trails around New Holland, Lancaster, or Reading, Pennsylvania? Two popular options on the road today are the Ford Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The team at New Holland Ford knows that you probably need to compare them to decide which vehicle is the better choice for you. That's where we come in, with this Ford Explorer vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee comparison. Take a look!
Grand Cherokee vs Explorer: Off-Road Capability
Both the Explorer and the Grand Cherokee are capable of taking on the great outdoors. Each one has available 4x4 drivetrains, which increase traction and help you even when the weather is bad.
To help you adapt to the terrain you encounter, the Grand Cherokee and the Explorer also have an available Terrain Management Systemâ„¢. These systems have drive modes that correspond to terrain conditions, like Deep Snow/Sand, Trail, and even Eco mode. The Explorer has seven of these modes.
In fact, the Explorer has a specific trim for those passionate about off-roading: the Timberline. The Timberline has standard all-terrain tires, heated front and rear seats, and steel underbody skid plates.
Legroom and Cargo Space
If you're planning a weekend getaway or a long road trip, space and comfort make all the difference. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers up to 70.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the first row and 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row, giving you flexible storage for gear, luggage, or groceries. The Grand Cherokee comfortably seats five passengers, surrounding them with premium materials and modern design touches.
The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, provides even greater versatility with seating for up to seven passengers and a maximum cargo volume of 87.8 cubic feet behind the first row. Fold down the rear seats, and you'll have more than enough room for camping equipment, sports gear, or weekend essentials. The Explorer also offers generous legroom across all three rows, including 43 inches in the first row, 39 inches in the second, and 32.2 inches in the third, giving everyone space to stretch out.
In comparison, the Grand Cherokee provides 40.3 inches of front legroom and 38.2 inches in the second row, comfortable for most adults, but slightly less than the Explorer's three-row layout.
Safety and Driver-Assist Features
Both the Grand Cherokee and the Explorer make advanced safety a top priority. The Grand Cherokee comes standard with Active Driving Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Full-Speed Collision Warning with Active Braking. It also includes Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection, providing extra awareness when changing lanes or reversing.
The Ford Explorer features Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology, a suite of standard driver-assist features that includes BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and a Rear View Camera. These features work together to enhance confidence and control behind the wheel on every drive.
While both SUVs deliver impressive safety tech, the Explorer stands out by including several of these driver-assist features as standard, whereas some of the Grand Cherokee's advanced systems may require an upgrade to a higher trim level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which one is safer?
The Ford Explorer earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reflecting top-level performance in crash testing.* This SUV provides advanced driver-assist features through Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢, helping drivers stay confident and aware in all conditions. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also delivers strong safety credentials, but the Explorer's perfect 5-star score gives it a clear edge for safety-conscious families.
Which vehicle works better for a family?
If you need third-row seating and maximum cargo space for family trips, the Ford Explorer supports up to seven passengers and has more generous cargo volume. The Jeep Grand Cherokee seats five and excels in towing and rugged capability when paired with the right trim. Choosing depends on whether passenger/cargo space or towing/off-road capability is your priority.
How many people can the Grand Cherokee and Explorer seat?
The Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers across three rows, making it a great choice for families or carpools. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers seating for five passengers, prioritizing comfort and space in its two-row layout. Drivers who need extra seating flexibility will appreciate the Explorer's third-row versatility.
Which Off-Road Capable SUV Is Right For You?
For drivers around New Holland, Lancaster, and Reading, PA, with an adventurous streak, we hope this Ford Explorer vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee was helpful. We've compared both models and zoomed in on their capabilities, interior dimensions, and safety features. In each of these categories, the Explorer has come out ahead.
If you're interested in checking out the Explorer, visit New Holland Ford. You can give it a test drive and check out the available features. Contact us to schedule a test drive of the Ford Explorer today.
*Source: NHTSA
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