Before Americans became obsessed with the roominess, sporty looks, and commanding driving position of SUVs over pretty much all other types of vehicles, there were only a few choices on the market. As it so happens, both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer were two of those early pioneers that came to define the SUV movement. Fast-forward to 2024 to see which of these formidable competitors reigns supreme in the SUV wars today.
Key Takeaways
- The Jeep Grand Cherokee was completely redesigned for the 2022 model year and still looks and feels fresh today.
- Ford’s explorer is a slightly older design, having last been redesigned for the 2020 model year.
- The 2024 Grand Cherokee is available as a plug-in hybrid that can navigate 26 miles worth of in-town errands on battery power alone.
- The Grand Cherokee is also available in a larger format called Grand Cherokee L, with spacious third-row seating and an available V8 engine.
How do the two SUVs’ powertrains stack up?
The 2024 Grand Cherokee is available with two powertrains. The first is a conventional 3.6-liter V6 that makes 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.
Rear-wheel drive is standard on basic models, but in typical Jeep fashion, a variety of four-wheel drive options exist including the availability of a locking differential for off-road prowess. This engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg out on the highway, though all-wheel drive gets about 1 mpg less.
Where the Grand Cherokee really differentiates itself is with the 4xe plug-in hybrid model, which pairs a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor to make a total of 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The 4xe powertrain comes standard with all-wheel drive and can travel 26 miles on battery power alone when fully charged.
The base engine for the 2024 Explorer is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. An optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 that makes 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque is also available. While the Explorer appears to win the horsepower contest, it lacks the uber-economical and earth-friendly option of a plug-in hybrid that exists with the Grand Cherokee.
What about towing?
When it’s time to hook up your camping trailer or tow the boat to the lake for a day of fun, know that a properly equipped 2024 Grand Cherokee can tow up to 6,200 pounds. On the other hand, the 2024 Ford Explorer falls short of that accomplishment, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds.
There’s also a larger Grand Cherokee L
If you’ve ever hoped for an even larger or more powerful Grand Cherokee to conquer family adventures, look into the 2024 Grand Cherokee L. The L-version is approximately 12 inches longer than the regular Grand Cherokee, which is enough extra space to throw in a generous third row of seats without feeling cramped.
In addition to the standard Grand Cherokee’s engine options, the 2024 Grand Cherokee L also unlocks the potential for a 357-hp HEMI V-8 that increases the Grand Cherokee's towing capacity to a robust 7,200 pounds.
Technology and infotainment
The centerpiece of the 2024 Grand Cherokee’s cabin is a 8.4-inch or available 10.1 touchscreen, both of which have included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trim levels can be equipped with a digital gauge cluster replacing the traditional analog readout, as well as a 10-inch heads up display for said gauges that project onto the windshield. If your Grand Cherokee’s front seat passenger is feeling left out of the fun, there’s also an optional 10.3-inch display on their side of the dashboard.
The infotainment system in the 2024 Ford Explorer isn’t radically different from the Grand Cherokee, albeit slightly smaller with an 8.0-inch standard touchscreen. There’s also an optional 10.1-inch vertically oriented display, but getting one requires selecting one of the Explorer's more expensive models. Like the Grand Cherokee, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is included but we think the Grand Cherokee gets the edge due to its available digital gauge cluster, heads-up display, and passenger touchscreen — items not available in the Explorer at any price.
Final Thoughts
We might be biased, but while the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2024 Ford Explorer are both capable midsize SUV, we think the Grand Cherokee has the advantage between the two. A recent handsome restyle has it looking fresh and modern, plus buyers can opt for the larger V8-powered Cherokee L. To find out if you agree, let our friendly sales staff show you all the 2024 Grand Cherokee has to offer and perhaps even test drive one. Stop by today!