Jeep Grand Cherokee Vs. Ford Explorer: Which SUV To Pick In 2025?
When looking to upgrade your everyday life and weekend getaways, you will likely find yourself comparing the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer. The midsize Ford Explorer SUV is a very competent three-row vehicle with good available comfort features and a spacious interior. However, when you look at how the two- or three-row full-size Jeep Grand Cherokee enhances your drive with state-of-the-art safety systems, available massage chairs, and a stronger available PHEV engine, you'll understand why families who embrace their inner adventurer flock to the Jeep SUV at Moore Chrysler Jeep.
Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Explorer Performance & Specs
To start, let's pop open the hood and see how the Grand Cherokee and Explorer engines face off. Both of these vehicles offer capable powertrains, but where the Explorer offers two turbo variants of an otherwise similar setup, the Grand Cherokee provides a 3.0-liter V-6 and a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine with plug-in hybrid technology. This lets you shop two very different Jeep Grand Cherokee models: one with excellent gas power and the other (Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe) with plug-in hybrid technology that outpaces the Explorer.
| Model | 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2025 Ford Explorer |
| Engine Options | - 3.6L V-6 - 2.0L turbo PHEV I-4 | - 2.3L I-4 - 3.0L V-6 |
| Horsepower | - 293 (V-6) - 375 (PHEV) | - 300 - 400 |
| Torque | - 260 lb-ft (V-6) - 470 lb-ft (PHEV) | - 310 lb-ft - 415 lb-ft |
| Drivetrains | 4x2, 4x4 available | RWD, available 4WD |
| Ground Clearance (Min / Max) | 8.4 / 10.9 in | 7.6 / 8.2 in |
| Non-Hybrid EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 19 / 26 / 221 | 20 / 29 / 242 |
| Fuel Tank Size | 23 gal | 17.9 - 20.2 gal |
| Towing Capacity | 6,200 lbs (V-6)3 | 5,000 lbs3 |
The Jeep Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid engine, offered by the 4xe lineup, outclasses the Explorer in terms of pure power. The 470 pound-feet of torque made by the Grand Cherokee 4xe 2.0-liter turbo PHEV inline-four engine is more efficient than the 3.0-liter V-6 available in the Explorer, which instead makes 415 pound-feet of torque while only producing 25 more horsepower.
If you take the hybrid option out of the picture, the standard engines of the Jeep and Ford SUVs are quite competitive in real-world stats. Thanks to the 23-gallon tank of the Grand Cherokee, the Jeep option adds a few extra miles to your gas-only range.
Ford Explorer vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee Towing Capacity
The Ford Explorer has a very potent 5,000-pound towing capacity,3 capable of handling small vehicle trailers, small campers, and more.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee brings that limit to the next level, surpassing the Ford SUV's stats by 1,200 pounds.3 This lets you handle larger fishing boat carriers, some tow dollies, and even utility trailers. With a ground clearance that ranges from 8.4 inches to 10.9 inches, the Jeep Grand Cherokee can tow through the wilderness with ease. Meanwhile, your Ford Explorer struggles to justify its name with 7.6 inches of standard ground clearance and 8.2 inches on its most off-road-ready trim.
Trim Levels: Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer Comparison
Each vehicle has levels that augment your ride, adding comforts like leather upholstery or technology like larger screens. The Ford Explorer gives you four options, lumping a feature you may like behind a massive price jump.
- Active
- ST-Line
- Platinum
- ST
The Jeep SUV is more interested in giving you what you want and offers nine trim levels – more than double that of the Explorer. If you prefer minor comfort increases or a focus on off-roading, shop our new Jeep inventory for the freedom to pick and choose your features, like 4xe models for eco-friendly driving. Choose from the following:
- Laredo A
- Laredo
- Laredo X
- Altitude
- Altitude X
- Limited
- Overland
- Summit
- Summit Reserve
Interior & Features: Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer Differences
Depending on the trim you climb into, you'll be introduced to an incredible array of technology in both vehicles. The Ford Explorer is a cozy and comfortable SUV, but the Grand Cherokee baseline trim matches that homely feeling. Then, it lets you upgrade to significantly more luxurious features like massaging front seats and a Selec-Terrain Traction Management System. Compare how the three-row Jeep Grand Cherokee L looks against the Ford Explorer in this chart.
| Model | 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 2025 Ford Explorer (Three-Row) |
| Seating Capacity | 7 (5 for non-L models) | 7 |
| Length | 204.9 in | 198.7 in |
| Width | 77.5 in | 78.9 in |
| Height | 71.5 in | 69.6 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 41.3 / 39.4 / 30.3 in | 43 / 39 / 32.2 in |
| Cargo Capacity (Min / Max) | 17.2 / 84.6 cu ft | 16.3 / 85.8 cu ft |
| Standard Feature Highlights | - 10.25-in driver information display - Active Lane Management - Adaptive Cruise Control - ParkSense Rear Park Assist | - 12.3-in LCD panel - Lane-Keeping Assist - Adaptive Cruise Control - Rear Parking Sensors |
| Available Feature Highlights | - Heated, ventilated, massage Palermo leather front seats - 10.25-in front-passenger touchscreen - 360-Degree Surround View Camera - 19-speaker McIntosh® sound system - Drowsy Driver Detection | - Heated and ventilated leather seats - Panoramic Vista roof - Ford BlueCruise - 10-speaker B&O® sound system - 360-Degree Camera |
The most important difference is with interior tech. Both models start with very similar features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control. You can look to the high-end trims of the Jeep SUV for your luxury-level convenience. Settle into lumbar-massaging ventilated front seats, give your front passenger extra control of the ride with their own 10.25-inch touchscreen, and get driver assistance for parallel and perpendicular parking.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2025 Ford Explorer Warranty & Maintenance
Speaking of premium benefits, let's talk about your comprehensive coverage for these SUVs. Both options will be covered by a three-year/36,000-mile Limited Warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty.4 However, by enrolling in Jeep Wave, you get access to dozens of benefits, including the first two oil changes and tire rotations you receive in the first two years.5 Those opportunities are unavailable with Ford models.
Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer Price
Let's finish our Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer guide with a price check. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo A starts at $36,495,6 while the Explorer Active begins at $39,755.7 Even if you get the three-row Grand Cherokee L, you'll still have a lower starting price than the Active.6
Explore the Winner at Moore Chrysler Jeep
We hope that if you've been between the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer, you can now see that the Jeep model is the top choice. When you're ready to get behind the wheel of this SUV, our staff will help you every step of the way, from the test drive to when you apply for financing at our showroom or online.
If you want a Jeep model with more towing power, we likely have you covered. We can show off a new Jeep Gladiator for sale and let you feel the hum of the engine before you lock in a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Grand Cherokee offer a more luxurious interior than the Explorer?
Yes, the Grand Cherokee provides a more high-end interior between these two models. The Grand Cherokee offers massaging seats, Nappa leather seating materials, and a Head-Up Display on its premium trims. It also can have more available entertainment features for the family, from a 10.25-inch front-passenger touchscreen to the 19-speaker McIntosh® premium sound system.
How do the towing capacities of the Grand Cherokee and Explorer compare?
The Ford Explorer has a solid towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, able to handle medium-sized trailers like a teardrop trailer or tow dolly. Alternatively, climb into a Grand Cherokee for a 6,200-pound towing capability,3 uplifting your family trip with small utility trailers, larger campers, and most fishing boat carriers. That extra potency grants some peace of mind while hitching up.
What advantage does the Grand Cherokee have over the Explorer in terms of trim options?
The Ford Explorer has four trim variants, from the Active to the ST, that range wildly in performance and convenience features. If you shop the Jeep Grand Cherokee instead, you get nine different, expressive trims with varying priorities in technology advancements, off-roading innovations, and style choices. You can also choose the Grand Cherokee L for more spacious seating or the Grand Cherokee 4xe to add PHEV power.
Additional Chrysler Jeep Model Resources
1EPA-estimated 19 city MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and 8-speed automatic. EPA-estimated 26 hwy MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and 8-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary.
2EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
3When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
4Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
5The complimentary maintenance services listed on this web page are for informational purposes and shall not be solely relied upon. These services may have specific conditions, limitations, and exclusions, and not all vehicles may qualify for complimentary maintenance. For detailed coverage specifics, including what is included in the complimentary maintenance and any potential costs, please contact our dealership.
6MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.
7Current Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for base vehicle. Excludes destination/delivery fee plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Optional equipment not included. Starting A, Z and X Plan price is for qualified, eligible customers and excludes document fee, destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan. All Mustang Shelby GT350® and Shelby® GT350R prices exclude gas guzzler tax.