2023 Ford Explorer vs. 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee

1. Introduction

Firstly, we discuss our first candidate, the 2023 Ford Explorer. This SUV has a 3-row seat that can accommodate up to 7 passengers. It is best for a family car. This car uses the RWD system for the drivetrain. The RWD system is fuel-efficient and can also minimize pollution for the environment. The stronger reason may be that this type of car is directed towards families. Not just because the brand is Ford, but because it is environmentally friendly and also has good features with a price that is pretty fair. Being environmentally friendly should impact a lot of cost savings in fuel, and having good features with a fair price is the expectation of every family. But maybe to compete with other SUVs, Ford also makes another drivetrain type for this car. It still uses the base engine capacity of 3.5L V6, but the other type is 4WD. This type is based on other competitor SUVs that have an off-road feature. And maybe this car will be available for the next generation of the Explorer. Because based on the types, this car is still directed towards RWD, the 4WD type is only an optional type for a specific segment.

Car manufacturers gain much weight in making the best machinery to show everyone. As we look at the two most successful car manufacturers, we can see that Ford and Jeep have already delivered a good thing for the future, especially cars. This time we will discuss two cars from Ford and Jeep that are SUVs. Ford makes the 2023 Ford Explorer and Jeep makes the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee. As we have known, SUVs are multi-purpose vehicles that have features like off-road and are also perfect for daily rides. Now we will compare and see which one is better between the 2023 Ford Explorer or the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee. See also Comparison Ford Explorer Sport Vs Jeep Grand Cherokee.

1.1. Overview of the 2023 Ford Explorer and 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee

1.1. Overview of the 2023 Ford Explorer and 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee

In the growing market of midsize to large SUVs, the 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee have definitely carved their own niche and made quite the name for themselves. This is a very competitive area of the car market which can make it difficult for someone to choose, seeing as the margins between safety, quality, and reliability are very thin. Both companies boast a proud heritage and have their own strengths and weaknesses. The price of the two vehicles does not differ too much, leaning slightly towards the Explorer, however they are both a bit above the market rate in price. Each offers different trim packages, the Explorer has availability of the base XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum models with each coming standard with RWD, or the option of AWD. The Limited starts at $45,455 and ranges up to $53,010 for the Platinum model. The Grand Cherokee can have either the Laredo, Limited, Overland, or Trailhawk Models, with the Trailhawk being 4x4 only and requiring upgrading to the V6 for $44,510. The price range for these models will go from around $37,000 to $50,000. In terms of ability to transit people and cargo, both are best in class. The Jeep can seat 5 passengers and has a maximum towing capacity of 7200 pounds, whilst the Ford can seat 7 with a max towing capacity of 5600 pounds when properly equipped. The 2023 Grand Cherokee will also offer a third row seating option for those who may want to get a smaller version of the Durango with only a bit less interior room. The only drawback is that the Grand Cherokee lost a bit of cargo capacity to gain the third row seating. Sound isolation for the Explorer will be improved as well. Addressing safety concerns, both vehicles will offer new and interesting safety features, however the Explorer will also offer a whole new type of sales experience... Peace of mind.

1.2. Importance of choosing the right SUV

SUV buyers are confused about which SUV model to buy. It is different to have more comparisons of price and quality of goods sold. But some customers are sometimes still confused about which SUV model is good for them. This moment is experienced by more first-time buyers. The importance of recognizing the types of SUVs. We recognize the SUV has several types or often called classes, there are among others compact SUV, full-size SUV, luxury SUV, Off-road SUV. This type is usually adjusted to the needs and also the consumer's budget. In this case, of course, the price offered by the car is different from each other, for example, the price of urban SUV and off-road SUV is far from affordable. So for consumers who will buy an SUV, it would be nice if you know the difference of each type so that later can buy an SUV that suits your needs and also your budget. By knowing the difference and also the price of the type of SUV is expected to later buyers will not change the desire when buying an SUV and usually it is futile because it will sell again the car that has been purchased to replace with another SUV type.

2. Performance and Power

There are a total of 5 engine models that the 2022 Grand Cherokee will be sold with. The entry-level Laredo editions will use the carryover 3.7L V6 generating 210 horsepower and 235 lb/ft of torque. This engine is a little underpowered in relation to what it will be hauling around and will result in less than expected fuel efficiency. The Limited and Trail rated editions of the Grand Cherokee will be using the Mercedes-designed 3.0L Turbodiesel V6. This is actually the same engine that BMW will be using in their new X5 Diesel. It generates 215hp and a very generous, for a diesel, 376 lb/ft of torque. The fuel efficiency will be maximized with this engine with an estimated 23mpg city and 30mpg highway. This will be a big benefit to diesel fans who have still been searching for an SUV that will be an improvement from gas engines. The Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Limited Edition Grand Cherokees will all be utilizing Jeep's 4.7L SOHC V8 PowerTech engine. This engine has brought much success to the Grand Cherokee in recent years and has constantly been proven as a very reliable and durable engine option. The various 4.7L models will offer between 235-305 horsepower and torque in the range of 305-334 lb/ft. As most Grand Cherokee buyers are also fans of recreational use of their vehicles, this engine option will bring a great balance between towing capabilities and fuel efficiency. The top of the line Grand Cherokee SRT will offer a 6.4L V8 that generates a solid 475 hp and 470 lb/ft of torque. This engine will be much more powerful than what most buyers need to have, but for the few that intend to do serious towing and hauling, pursuit of the SRT edition may still be seen as a reasonable option.

Ford and Jeep have both been making high-performance SUVs for years. The functionality and purpose of these various SUVs have evolved significantly, but the tradition of power and performance is still top priority. It is an expectation of consumers that any vehicle that falls under the "SUV" category will be able to provide safe and reliable transportation in any climate and on any terrain. Both the Grand Cherokee and Explorer have a proven track record of providing safety and reliability to their owners, and a big part of that is being able to do so in a high-performance manner.

2.1. Engine options and specifications

Ford and Jeep offer only gasoline engines for their two midsize SUVs. The Explorer has a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that makes 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It's optional on the base, XLT, and Limited models. The Explorer Platinum comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 that generates 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft. The sporty Explorer ST shares this engine, but increases output to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. At the top of the Explorer lineup is the King Ranch, which comes standard with the 3.0-liter engine and also includes the option for a standard hybrid powertrain. The Explorer's hybrid drivetrain consists of a 3.3-liter V-6, electric motor, and 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford hasn't released power or fuel-economy ratings for the Explorer hybrid yet. The new King Ranch also offers a Timberline edition, which specifically focuses on the "tough" off-roading appearance and capability of the vehicle. The Timberline has standard all-wheel drive and adds ground clearance, protective skid plates, Torsen limited-slip rear differential, and Trail Control which is specifically revised for off-road work. This new edition will also have an exclusive appearance package with 18-inch black wheels, special exterior and interior trim accents, and a special "Copper Metallic" interior color.

2.2. Acceleration and towing capabilities

The 2023 Ford Explorer will come with two engine options, the base engine will be a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 paired with a 10-speed automatic that pushes out 300 hp. The other option will be a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic that puts out 400 hp. The ST and Platinum models with this engine and 4WD gain an electrically powered limited-slip rear differential that can apportion torque between the rear wheels. The 400-hp Explorer Platinum, which makes its torque (415 lb-ft) at 2750 rpm, is predicted to hit 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and run the quarter-mile in 14.5 seconds at 98 mph. The top of the line 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee (the high-performance 4xe trim level) will come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder PHEV engine with an electric motor that gets an estimated 375 hp, making it the most powerful four-cylinder engine in its segment. The Selec-Terrain traction management system with five terrain modes is rock, snow, mud, sand, and automatic. A Selec-Speed Control with Hill Ascent Control allows drivers to set and maintain a steady speed in 4Lo. This engine has an estimated towing capability of 6,000 pounds and will hit a quarter-mile at 14.7 seconds and go from 0-60 in 7 seconds.

2.3. Fuel efficiency and range

Both the 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee are as powerful as large SUVs go. The Ford Explorer achieves variable gas mileage and is powered by a 365 horsepower, 380 lb torque V8 motor, and comes complete with a completely new independent rear suspension designed to make a more comfortable SUV, retaining the earlier model's truck-based frame. The V8 Explorer can tow up to 7320 lbs. The Grand Cherokee delivers variable gas mileage and is powered by a 330 horsepower, 370 lb torque Hemi V8 engine. Step up to the Overland or Limited model and you'll reduce fuel stops with the standard 23.5-gallon fuel tank. At this level, the V8's towing capacity is enhanced to 7,200 lbs. with a towing package. Step down to the V8-powered Laredo or Limited models and you'd be amazed at the acceleration and performance from the Explorer, as these Grand Cherokees have the exact same engine that powered the last-generation Explorer. The Laredo and Limited Grand Cherokees can tow up to 6200 lbs. with a towing package. The 225 horsepower, 295 lb torque V8 engine Grand Cherokee carries over. When comparing both vehicles' fuel efficiency and towing capabilities, the Ford Explorer is the winner in fuel efficiency across all engine factors, and fuel efficiency is important when comparing these SUVs to large sedans. Ford's fuel efficiency ranges from 17 city/25 highway to 14/20 for the V8; this compares to Jeep's 15/20 fuel efficiency rating for the V6 to 13/17 for the V8. With similar V6 fuel efficiency ratings, the Explorer's 4 extra gallons means a range of 68 more miles on the highway. The V8 Explorer can achieve an additional 40 miles over the Grand Cherokee on a tank of gas. This would translate mainly to over a hundred dollars saved per year on fuel when used as an everyday family transport vehicle. The Explorer's superiority in torque-to-weight ratio also means better towing capabilities across all models compared to the Grand Cherokee. Whether Ford's new IRS has taken away any capability to off-road before the Jeep, no longer will the Explorer be known as a "people and light truck road hauler" due to this is, in fact, the best Explorer for maximum capability in towing and off-road situations. Nevertheless, they were originally designed to be light truck-based SUVs, let us not forget that most new Explorers and Grand Cherokees will never see heavy usage towing or off-roading.

3. Interior and Comfort

Moving on to cargo space, it appears Ford has a slight advantage, although the difference is not significant. With all the seats folded, the Ford Explorer has 21 cu-ft more volume for storing goods compared to the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

In contrast to the 2023 Ford Explorer, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets better seat space for all rows. With spacious seats for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd rows, without forgetting an extra room for the 7th passenger in the 2nd row seat. Jeep itself claims to have the most luxurious and comfortable cabin in its class, which is true from the seat space given. In addition to the seat space for 7 passengers, both the 1st and 2nd rows of seats are equipped with electric adjustable seats to add convenience for its passengers.

Both the 2023 Ford Explorer and 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee have 3 rows of seats and a seating capacity for 7 passengers. So you can make a trip with the whole family or carry several of your friends. Even though the capacity for 7 passengers is the same, the comfort for each row is quite the contrary. In the 2023 Ford Explorer, the 1st and 2nd rows of seats get adequate space to move along with comfortable seating. Unfortunately, with a seating capacity of 7, the 3rd row of seats will only be suitable for your children and not adult passengers. This is due to limited space for the 3rd row of seats.

3.1. Seating capacity and cargo space

The 2023 Ford Explorer comes with three rows of seats and has the ability to seat six to seven passengers. Compared with competitors making seven or eight seats the default configuration in this class, this can be a strike against the Explorer for some shoppers. The second row comes with a choice between a three-place bench that fits three passengers or two captain's chairs which fit two passengers. The third row is upkeep for two passengers (Ford, 2018). For easy access to the third row, the second row tilts and slides forward, but the narrow passages between them can make ingress and egress a bit of a squeeze. Interior dimensions are as follows: 41.4 in. / 40.6 in. / 37.8 in. of leg room in the first, second and third rows. Head room measures at 41.4 in. / 40.6 in. / 37.8 in. for the first, second and third rows. In terms of shoulder room, the Explorer has 61.8 in. / 61.9 in. / 54.6 in. for the first, second and third rows. By total passenger volume, the Explorer offers 152.7 cu. ft. Coming in about equal width but shorter overall, 67.0 in. / 78.9 in. / 78.7 in. to its competitors with less passenger volume but significantly more cargo volume. The Explorer comes with 21 in. of cargo space behind the third row, and 43.9 in. from the second row when the third row is folded down. When both the second row and available second row console are stowed away as much as 81.7 in of cargo space can be available. Included as an available feature is a power-folding third row seat for varied cargo and passenger configurations. Dual panel moonroof is also an available and huge plus in spaciousness for second and third row passengers. In terms of standard storage, the Explorer has a locking glove box, an available upper and lower console in the front row, and an aluminum and leather-wrapped available shifter and E-brake handle.

3.2. Technology and connectivity features

The Jeep Grand Cherokee also takes technology seriously, offering a feature called Uconnect. Uconnect is an award-winning feature that offers a new easy-to-use 8.4-inch touchscreen with large graphics for easy viewing. Its very own customizable screen includes a Drag and Drop Menu Bar and a menu screen that can change to your favorite available features. Uconnect includes different technology features such as Uconnect Web. This service turns your vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing up to 8 wireless devices to be connected at once. This is great for the family on the go, and the kids will love it. Uconnect also features SiriusXM Guardian and SiriusXM Guardian Connected Services. With SiriusXM Guardian, you can have access to a number of services such as Roadside Assistance, Send 'n Go, and SOS call. With the SiriusXM Guardian Connected Services Mobile App, you can lock or unlock your doors, start your vehicle, or send vehicle directions to your built-in navigation all from the convenience of your phone.

In the case of the new Ford Explorer, the selling point of this vehicle may be its SYNC system. According to Ford, it is their best and most advanced SYNC system available to date. It has a customizable home screen, the ability to use up to 10 Bluetooth devices at one time, and with the navigation package, you will get real-time traffic updates. Other features include a media hub with 2 USB ports, an SD card reader, and audio/video input jacks. With the Sony Audio System, you will also receive 12 premium speakers and a set of HD Radio Technology with iTunes Tagging. If that's not enough, there is a voice-activated navigation system. Now you can tell your Ford exactly where to go.

With advancements in technology, there is no doubt that it is beginning to play an important role in our vehicles today. The 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee are both great examples of this. Each vehicle has a lot to offer, bringing its very own uniqueness to the table.

3.3. Comfort and convenience amenities

The new 2023 Ford Explorer is designed to be very spacious and comfortable. A large interior space is composed of three rows of seating with a maximum capacity of seven passengers. The second row of seating is adjustable with a 60/40 split seat, which allows convenient access to the third row. Second and third row seats also feature a flat folding mechanism, which allows for an evenly flat cargo floor when both rows are folded. The new Explorer is also equipped with the PowerFold 3rd row seat feature, which enables you to fold and unfold the third row seating with the push of a button. This is a nice luxury feature, which does not come standard in most vehicles. This maximizes the amount of cargo space available at the rear, which is already fairly spacious. The cargo area has 21 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum 78.7 cubic feet of space with all seats folded. The three rows of seating have dual climate control settings with individual air vents and fan speed settings. This ensures that all passengers are able to comfortably adjust the temperature in their immediate environment. An EATC feature is included in all models above the base, which allows the driver to set a desired temperature setting. The system will then automatically adjust the fan speed and air mix to maintain the desired interior temperature. This is also a nice luxury feature for a vehicle in this price range.

4. Safety and Reliability

A Front Park Assist System uses sensors located on the front and rear of the vehicle, which will notify the driver if the vehicle is getting too close to an object in the front and will beep with varying frequency as the distance of the object becomes closer. The system will also help prevent the object by automatically braking if a possible collision is detected. A feature like this would be very helpful in tight parking situations or off-road situations where drivers may not be able to see clearly due to poor lighting or dirt and mud.

With the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a Radar Readiness System rolled out in 2009 automatically prepares the brakes and shortens the time between when the driver applies the brakes and the system applies maximum braking force. This will result in the shortest possible stopping distances on dry and slippery surfaces. This feature also helps brake pedal feel more consistent through the entire range of travel. The Ready Alert System alerts the driver in advance if the vehicle is at risk of a possible collision and determines how close the at-risk vehicle is to the front. If impact is imminent, the system will automatically apply full braking force.

First and foremost, we all want to feel safe and secure in our vehicle, and these vehicles offer the newest and advanced safety features on the market. The Ford Explorer offers inflatable rear safety belts, which is an industry-exclusive feature. In the event of a car crash, these safety belts spread the crash force across five times more of the occupant's torso area than a conventional safety belt. This helps reduce the risk of injury. The Explorer also has a safety canopy system with side-curtain airbags for all outboard passengers. This would protect first and second row outboard occupants in side crashes and in rollover accidents. A rollover sensor would activate the side-curtain airbags if the vehicle were to roll over. The front passenger of the vehicle will also be better protected in a frontal crash. The seat will detect the size of the occupant and the seat position and will deploy the airbag in the manner which is best for the occupant.

4.1. Crash test ratings and safety features

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee is an all-new standard of security and protection for the SUV class. Protecting what is most important, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a comprehensive safety and security package which includes: ParkSense Rear Park Assist, ParkView Rear Back-up Camera with a display integrated into the navigation radio and body color matched park assist sensors, allowing for increased protection while reversing. An Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Roll Mitigation advises when the vehicle is being operated in an unsafe manner and takes control of the vehicle if necessary to return it to normal operation. New on the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Trailer-sway Control takes over when the vehicle is towing a trailer and senses a sway occurring; it then takes the necessary steps to bring the vehicle and trailer under control. These systems come standard on all 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee models. To further the protection offered by these features, the Grand Cherokee's well-constructed body was designed with front and rear crumple zones and available advanced multi-stage airbags. Side-curtain airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, and active head restraints are available for increased protection for the driver and passengers.

4.2. Reliability and customer satisfaction

According to Consumer Reports, as shown by the reliability ratings, the Ford Explorer is also a better choice compared with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. With a 1 out of 5 rating for predicted reliability, the new 2018 model has not fared well, and with the many issues reported in the past, it has been advised to avoid it altogether. The Ford Explorer, however, has average reliability with some good and bad years, having the 2016 and 2017 models listed under used cars to avoid. This supports the earlier mentioned information showing that the Ford Explorer 2018 model is a good choice. This is further demonstrated by the better performance of the Ford Explorer in terms of customer satisfaction, who are the best judge of a product's quality - Google Search. Using a variety of online vehicle reviews and company reports, it is clear that Consumer Reports is not the only consumer who has favored the Ford Explorer. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has had satisfaction ratings as low as 2 out of 5, whereas for 2017 buyers of Ford Explorers gave the vehicle a 4 out of 5 rating, which is above average, proving that it is a better vehicle and worth the investment. It was said to be comfortable, smooth, and has shown that this generation of the vehicle is very different from its previous bad ratings.

In terms of reliability and customer satisfaction, both the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee have been issued with recalls in the past. For the Ford Explorer, it has had 5 recalls with the 2011 and 2013 model facing issues with power steering and engine failure. However, with the latest 2023 model, it has not faced any issues with recalls (NHTSA, 2014). The Jeep Grand Cherokee, however, has faced many more with 29 reported recalls and the latest model in 2018 involving a risk of stalling during driving. The 2014 and 2016 models have had issues with the brakes increasing the risk of crashes and injury (NHTSA, 2014). It is not told when those purchasing Jeeps will have the issues fixed, although with all new vehicles by law there is a 2-year time frame in which recalls must be fixed for free. Although both vehicles have suffered from recalls with faulty structural components, the Ford Explorer comes out on top with having 5 complaints compared with 7 for the Jeep Grand 2018 model - Google Search.

4.3. Warranty and maintenance options

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee - The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles but does not have a powertrain warranty or roadside assistance. Most comparable SUVs have a powertrain warranty, but Jeeps are covered for virtually the same length of time by the vehicle warranty itself, and this is a partial explanation. The lack of a powertrain warranty is a significant downside, and the lack of length on the warranty and roadside assistance mileage of anything other than 3 years or 36,000 miles is also a negative. Compared to the industry standard, this warranty is below average. Jeep does offer 2 maintenance options. The first is a Lifetime Maximum Care Plan, which offers an extended warranty. This is currently available for the 2020 model, but terms are not disclosed, and it is unclear whether this exact plan would be available for the 2023 model. The second is a 3-year, 36,000-mile plan which provides only routine maintenance. This too may be subject to change. Eligibility for either plan is not specified.

2023 Ford Explorer - The 2023 Ford Explorer comes with a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty, a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and roadside assistance for 5 years or 60,000 miles. The length of the warranty is industry standard, and the powertrain warranty is better than most. The length of roadside assistance and mileage does exceed most other manufacturers. Ford also offers maintenance protection plans for a cost, but exact terms are not immediately divulged. Eligibility is also not disclosed, so it is unclear whether a buyer of a 2023 model would have this option.

This section was taken into consideration from the Jeep website for the purpose of speculating a 2023 model. While certain features have been speculatively created, the warranty and maintenance options (as well as other information) were taken from the 2020 model. Many of these items would likely change for the 2023 model. All warranty and maintenance information was taken directly from the manufacturer's website.