Which is the best midsize SUV for you, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer? It’s true that both models offer rugged performance, smooth-riding comfort, and generous passenger space. But having so much in common only makes your choice more complicated! Our comparison guide helps you sort out your priorities.
Key Takeaways
- Both SUVs offer plenty of power, but the 2023 Grand Cherokee has greater off-road potential.
- With its hybrid 4xe powertrain, the Grand Cherokee delivers the thriftiest EPA ratings.
- The Explorer is a little roomier than the Grand Cherokee, with seven available seats to the Grand Cherokee’s five.
- Behind its rear seats, the Grand Cherokee offers the bigger cargo hold, perfect for families who travel with a lot of gear.
Sporty Performance: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV that can truly hold its own in rugged terrain, look no further than the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This 2023 model is more adventurous than most, and that’s especially true of its Trailhawk trim model, which features upgrades you don’t typically find in this segment. These include an electronically disconnecting stabilizer bar and adaptive air suspension with selectable ride height settings.
These Grand Cherokee engines are available for 2023:
- Standard 3.6L V6 (293 horsepower, 260 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional for Trailhawk, Overland, Summit: 2.0L four-cylinder plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain (375 hp, 470 lb-ft)
- Optional for Overland, Summit: 5.7L V8 (357 hp, 390 lb-ft)
Jeep Grand Cherokee models with the V6 engine come standard with rear-wheel drive. They’re also available with optional four-wheel drive. With either the V8 or 4xe powertrain, rugged four-wheel drive is standard.
The 2023 Explorer, meanwhile, offers a little more power. Its most powerful option is a turbocharged V6, which is available for higher trim levels. There’s also an off-road-ready version of the Explorer, the Timberline trim model, which comes with a few sporty upgrades, including an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and all-wheel drive. However, it’s not quite as rugged as Jeep’s Grand Cherokee Trailhawk!
These Ford Explorer engines are available for 2023:
- Standard turbo 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Standard for ST, King Ranch and optional for Platinum: Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Optional for Limited and standard for Platinum: 3.3L V6 hybrid powertrain (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
Maximum Fuel Economy: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
With the available 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Grand Cherokee can help you save a bundle on fuel. In gas and electric mode, a 4xe Grand Cherokee earns 56 mpg combined! When the plug-in hybrid battery runs out of juice, these SUVs return to gas mode, earning 23 mpg combined.
The Explorer is available with a hybrid powertrain, which helps this Ford SUV earn up to 27 mpg combined. That’s a pretty good figure for such a powerful model, but it doesn’t quite keep up with Jeep’s 4xe powertrain.
Passenger Seating: 2023 Ford Explorer
If your family needs more than five seats, you’ll appreciate the Explorer. Ford’s three-row midsize SUV seats up to seven passengers. With second-row captain’s chairs, that figure drops to six. Every Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, seats up to five passengers.
Both SUVs are sold as a range of trim models from basic to very luxurious. On the more luxurious end of the spectrum, these SUVs offer upgrades like leather upholstery, heated seats, and panoramic sunroofs.
Cargo Space: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To haul the most gear, you need the Grand Cherokee. Jeep’s midsize SUV offers 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats. That’s plenty of space for your camping gear and grocery hauls.
The Explorer’s three rows of passenger space really eat away at the available cargo space. Behind the rear seats, you’ll find only 18.2 cubic feet for your weekend bags and camping gear. That’s not a whole lot, especially for a big family!
Your New SUV
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a pretty cool option, but it’s no 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Choose Jeep’s midsize SUV for maximum fuel economy, trail-friendly performance, and road-trip-friendly cargo space.