Comparing the 2021 Ford Explorer vs. the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee in Chicago IL

Overview of the 2021 Ford Explorer vs. the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
When it comes to capable mid-size SUVs, two of the biggest names are the 2021 Ford Explorer and the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. What sets these two best-selling SUVs apart? Let’s find out in this head-to-head comparison of their base models, the 2021 Ford Explorer Base and the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E.
Mid-size SUV | 2021 Ford Explorer Base | 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E |
Engine | 2.3L 4-cylinder turbo | 3.6L V6 |
Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
Horsepower & Torque | 300 hp & 310 lb-ft | 293 hp & 260 lb-ft |
Towing Capacity | 5,300 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
Fuel Economy | 27 city, 29 highway | 19 city, 26 highway |
Seating | 7 | 5 |
Max. Cargo Space | 87.8 ft³ | 68.3 ft³ |

2021 Ford Explorer vs. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Performance
From the engines alone, it’s pretty easy to tell the difference between the Explorer and the Grand Cherokee. The 2021 Explorer draws its power from a 2.3L turbocharged I-4 engine, while the 2021 Grand Cherokee features a 3.6L V6 engine. Despite the Ford Explorer’s smaller engine size, it beats the Jeep Grand Cherokee in terms of horsepower and torque, bringing you an exhilarating 300 hp & 310 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, you can tow 5,300 lbs easily with Explorer, which is 1,800 lbs more than what Grand Cherokee can offer without its expensive trailer package. As for fuel economy, the 2021 Explorer also reigns supreme, offering up to 27 city mpg compared to the 2021 Grand Cherokee’s 19 city mpg.

2021 Ford Explorer vs. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Interior
Both the Explorer and the Grand Cherokee offer sophisticated interiors with great connectivity features like standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and SiriusXM trial subscriptions. When it comes to space, however, the Ford Explorer simply has more. The 2021 Explorer can comfortably seat up to seven passengers in its three-row layout, while the 2021 Grand Cherokee only has two rows and room for five. You can also fit more gear in your Explorer with its 87.8 ft³ maximum cargo capacity. Additionally, only the Ford Explorer offers 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability thanks to standard FordPass™ Connect.

2021 Ford Explorer vs. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Which to Buy?
If you’re looking for a mid-size SUV that can do it all for you, look no further — the 2021 Ford Explorer is the one for you. With impressive capability and connectivity, there’s no better SUV to accompany you on your adventures. See what else the Explorer can do for you here at Ford of Homewood. Schedule a test drive with us to experience the wonderful Ford Explorer in Chicago, IL for yourself.
https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/2021/
https://www.jeep.com/grand-cherokee.html