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The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer are two of the most popular and well-regarded midsize SUVs on the market. Both vehicles have earned a reputation for delivering an impressive blend of capability, comfort, and versatility that appeals to many buyers. In this article, read as our Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) Plano team takes an in-depth look at how these two SUVs compare across various categories to help you determine which one best meets your needs and preferences.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Both SUVs feature bold, distinctive exterior designs that reflect their brand identities. The Grand Cherokee showcases the Jeep's signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches, giving it a rugged and adventurous appearance. The Explorer has a more modern, streamlined look, with a sleek front fascia and sculpted body lines.
In terms of dimensions, the Grand Cherokee measures 193.5 inches long, 77.5 inches wide, and 70.8 inches tall, while the Explorer is slightly larger at 198.8 inches long, 89.3 inches wide, and 69.9 inches tall. Both SUVs offer a range of exterior colors, wheel designs, and lighting features for customizing your vehicle.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
The 2024 Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer provide spacious, well-appointed interiors that prioritize comfort and functionality. You'll find high-quality materials throughout the cabin, with available leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and premium audio systems. The Grand Cherokee offers seating for up to five passengers, with ample head- and legroom in both the front and rear seats. You can choose the three-row Grand Cherokee L to seat up to seven. The Explorer accommodates up to seven passengers across three rows of seating.
Regarding cargo space, the Grand Cherokee provides 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Explorer offers more overall cargo volume, with 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the Grand Cherokee comes standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces 293 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive. The Grand Cherokee offers a smooth, refined driving experience with ample power for most needs.
The Ford Explorer offers two engine options. The base engine is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque is available on higher trims. Both engines mate to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer comes with rear-wheel drive and the option of all-wheel drive.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L can tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped. Two-row models with the base 2.3-liter engine have a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. The Ford Explorer maxes out at 5,000 pounds. The Grand Cherokee offers three advanced four-wheel-drive systems and a plug-in hybrid Trailhawk model designed for off-road adventures.
In terms of fuel economy, the Grand Cherokee V-6 achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Explorer's base four-cylinder returns up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Explorer's V-6 is slightly less efficient, with ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Prowess
One area where the Grand Cherokee truly shines is its off-road capability. Three advanced four-wheel-drive systems — Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II — provide traction and control on various terrains.
While the Ford Explorer focuses more on everyday comfort and handling, the Timberline trim adds off-road-oriented features, including standard intelligent all-wheel drive, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, off-road suspension tuning, and skid plates. Its off-road abilities don't quite match the Grand Cherokee's, particularly in the Jeep's more advanced Trailhawk guise.
Technology and Infotainment
Both SUVs offer a wealth of technology and infotainment features to keep occupants connected and entertained. Advanced driver-assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Grand Cherokee comes standard with an 8.4-inch display, with higher trims offering a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the latest version of Jeep's intuitive and responsive Uconnect system. You can add a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a head-up display, and a rear-seat entertainment system to higher trims.
The Explorer features Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system on an 8-inch touchscreen in lower trims and a larger 10.1-inch version in higher trims. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot and an available 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Safety Ratings and Features
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given both SUVs a five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Grand Cherokee a Top Safety Pick, while the Ford Explorer has earned a Top Safety Pick+ award.
In terms of standard safety features, both SUVs come well equipped. The Grand Cherokee includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Explorer offers a similar suite of safety technologies and a few additional features, such as post-collision braking and evasive steering assist.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee has nine main trim levels: Laredo A, Laredo, Laredo X, Altitude, Altitude X, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. The base Laredo A trim has a starting MSRP of $36,495 and a solid array of standard features, while the range-topping Summit Reserve trim can exceed $67,040.
Ford offers the 2024 Explorer in eight trim levels: Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. The base model has a starting MSRP of $36,860, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $54,770. Each trim level offers unique features and capabilities, so you can choose the model that best fits your needs and budget.
Experience the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer at Huffines CJDR Plano
Visit Huffines CJDR Plano to test-drive the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer. Our dealership features an extensive new inventory, so you can explore the various trim levels and options available. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will answer questions about features, capabilities, and pricing. We'll work with you to find the perfect model that suits your needs and budget. Take advantage of our Instant Cash Offer program to make trading in your vehicle even easier, ensuring you drive away in your new car with a smile.