2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer Comparison with Price, Specs, & Photos

When SUVs first became popular for everyday use, there were two models that led the charge: the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer. Today, these icons have both evolved to maintain their positions as defining models for the entire SUV segment. But despite the many, many new competitors that have come along, the rivalry between the Grand Cherokee and the Explorer is as heated as ever. So how do the current versions of each compare to each other? Let’s take a look.

Jeep Grand Cherokee VS Ford Explorer

For this comparison, we’re looking at two of the most popular trims that are also very similar in price. We’re also comparing the Grand Cherokee L, the three-row version of the Grand Cherokee, since the Explorer comes with three rows. Now these two 3-row SUVs come in at almost the exact same price, but for that price, the Grand Cherokee not only gives you three rows of seating, but more horsepower and more torque as well. That isn’t the entire reason why the Grand Cherokee will tow significantly more than the Explorer, but it certainly helps. The Grand Cherokee offers superior handling as well, thanks to standard torque vectoring and a more sophisticated multi-link front suspension.

The Explorer is available only as a three-row model, but Jeep gives you the option of a two-row model with an expansive cargo area behind the second row and a shorter wheelbase for better handling if you choose. But if you opt for the three-row Grand Cherokee, second-row captains’ chairs come standard, a feature that is extra on the Explorer. The Grand Cherokee also boasts higher ground clearance, which allows for a more versatile range of uses, especially when it comes to off-road driving. Your off-road trip can take you further in the Grand Cherokee as well, thanks to a much larger fuel tank. Not the sort of thing that’s usually an important factor in deciding which vehicle to buy, but this is an important difference if you’re offroading, as there aren’t many gas stations on the trail. Lastly, the Grand Cherokee comes with a lot more USB ports, because three-row SUVs are perfect for road trips, and road trips are a lot easier if everyone can keep their devices powered.

Winner – Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee remains the more serious of the two iconic SUVs. More power, better handling, and better off-road capability all contribute to the superior versatility of the Grand Cherokee. And versatility is really why these two models managed to help make SUVs so popular in the first place; they’re supposed to be do-anything vehicles that offer something for everyone. The Grand Cherokee is clearly the best way to get everything you need from an AUV, and Wally Armour Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is the best way to get your Grand Cherokee.