The Jeep Grand Cherokee has
consistently ranked among the best midsize SUVs on the market - its
versatile design and rugged styling
being one of the main reasons for
that. The Ford Explorer doesn't look bad, either. However, because it's
longer and wider (198″ L x 79″ W x 70″ H) than the Grand Cherokee (189-191″ L x 77″ W x 68-69″ H), it doesn't look as sporty.
But
let's look at what's under the hood of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee. Grand Cherokee's base trim comes
with a V6 Pentastar engine that's strong enough for most tasks with a
total output of nearly 300-horsepower but the drivers that want more
power can pick from one of the trims with a V8 engine. Yes, the V8
engine doesn't exactly sip gas but if you want performance that's a
small trade-off.
If you want the best of
both worlds, though, look at the Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel engine - it helps the SUV to
deliver impressive mpg. This means the EcoDiesel-powered Jeep Grand Cherokee is just as
economical as some family sedans. Not only is the EcoDiesel engine very
efficient, but it also promotes strong acceleration.
The Ford Explorer comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that puts out 290-horsepower. Optional engines include a 280-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that produces 365-horsepower. All three powertrain options on the Ford Explorer are excellent but the 3.5-L turbocharged V6 engine that comes standard on the Sport and optional on the line-topping Platinum trim is really where it shines. This engine generates an impressive 365-horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, which is plenty of power to get the Ford Explorer up and moving.
Both the Jeep Grand
Cherokee and the Ford Explorer are SUvs for the whole family. The Jeep Grand
Cherokee wide-opening doors and spacious design enable everyone to
easily climb aboard and because of the Grand Cherokee's extra legroom in
the front, it remains a solid choice for tall drivers. It has two rows
of seats vs three for the Explorer but that's not a disadvantage because Ford Explorer third seat is cramped and while children will not have too many problems fitting back there, trying to cram a couple of adults in will prove to be problematic. There simply is not enough leg space for most adults to feel truly comfortable and relaxed.
The Ford Explorer has less cargo space (21 ft³) compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee
(36.3 ft³) but more with the seat area (80.7 ft³ vs 68.3 ft³). So, if
you are looking for a vehicle with a lot of room go with the Ford Explorer.
But if you need a 5 passenger midsize SUV with an exceptional ride you
should definitely consider the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.
One
of the main reasons people buy a new vehicle is that it has the latest
safety features so they would safe on the road. For that reason, let's look at how the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer
stack up.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes loaded with more standard
features, including safety innovations like blind-spot monitoring which
helps with lane changes. The rear cross-traffic alert feature makes
backing up much easier. In addition, ParkSense Rear Park Assist now
comes standard as well. Advanced driving aids like forward collision
warning and lane-keep assist are also available so you really get to choose the types of features you want to include.
The
new Ford Explorer has a lot of to offer in the safety department as well with a few of them being the auto high-beam headlamps, rear view camera, and blind spot information system that alerts the driver about vehicles that aren't visible in the side mirrors. Â
What
it lacks in safety features, the new Ford Explorer makes up in
infotainment features. It's voice control responds appropriately to
commands; WiFi hot spot is standard - owners get unlimited data, and
connecting through a wireless device is easy. Also, Apple CarPlay and
Android Auto come standard on all Ford Explorer trims.
The
Jeep Grand Cherokee has a plenty to offer, too. Every driver can now enjoy
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mobile integration. It's also easy to
stream music and access smartphone apps, the UConnect inteface is simple
and easy to navigate. Also, a larger 8.4-inch touch screen is
available as an option to Jeep Grand Cherokee buyers.
Now, let's get to
what's on everyone's mind - price. Jeep Grand Cherokee is more affordable but that isn't the only reason why it's the better choice.Â
The new Jeep Grand
Cherokee is a multipurpose SUV that the entire family can enjoy. It both
delivers the driving excitement of a muscle car, and can pull heavy
loads like a pickup truck. If fuel economy is a concern, stick with the
base V6 or opt for the EcoDiesel engine. Plus you get a Jeep - a brand
worth bragging about.
  
 
