Comparing the 2023 Ford Explorer vs. the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee is like pitting two heavyweight champions against each other. Which SUV should you get behind in this epic battle?
Drivers in Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, and Santa Monica, CA, have plenty of questions about each SUV. Fortunately, the team at Airport Marina Ford has sized up both models so you can see which one is right for you.
Standard Seating Capacity
EPA-estimated MPG
Max Cargo Space
When considering any vehicle, it’s common to wonder about what’s under the hood. Can it take you to the Santa Monica Mountains? Let’s take a peek to see what the Explorer and the Grand Cherokee have in store.
Both the 2023 Ford Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee provide a riveting performance to push the boundaries of your outdoor explorations. When it comes to pure power, the Explorer has it in spades. Its standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 kicks out 300 horsepower, which outshines the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 in the Grand Cherokee. It’s only capable of 293 horsepower.
When you’re ready to move from the pavement to the off-road trails, both SUVs are available with 4-wheel drive, so you’ll have the sure-footed confidence to take on whatever path lies ahead. Whether you’re on the way to the campsite or a remote lake, nothing can stand in your way.
The Explorer is ready to adapt to all types of road conditions. Its Terrain Management System™ is available with seven driving modes: Trail, Slippery, Tow/Haul and Eco are just a few. The Grand Cherokee comes with a similar Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System, but it only offers five modes.
While you’re out enjoying an adventure at the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, you’ll want to continue the fun without having to make frequent stops at the pump. Let’s explore how these two models measure up when it comes to making the most of every mile.
One great benefit these SUVs share is their commitment to helping conserve gas while doing a good turn for the environment. Both the 2023 Explorer and the Grand Cherokee offer hybrid powertrain configurations that provide a range of over 400 miles!
When it comes to traditional powertrains, the 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine in the base trim of the Explorer achieves an EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway MPG with its rear-wheel drive (RWD) trim. This surpasses that of the Grand Cherokee’s base trim that yields an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 city/26 highway MPG.
You’ll likely take your SUV off-road for some excellent adventures, but the bottom line is that the Explorer conserves more fuel everywhere, both in cities and on the highway. For commuters, every little bit counts!
Since you’ll be spending the bulk of your time behind the wheel, you’ll want to be sure your chosen SUV is comfortable, both for you and for everyone on board. Plus, you’ll need enough room to pack any gear and equipment you want to take along.
When you’re taking your best friends to the lake house for the weekend or driving to the beach, you’ll need an abundance of space—not just for passengers but for all the cargo they’ll bring with them!
When it comes to space, the Explorer really takes the cake. Starting with its base trim level, it offers room for seven passengers with 152.7 cubic feet of passenger volume. Meanwhile, the Grand Cherokee is a bit smaller, offering just 145 cubic feet of passenger volume for five passengers.
How that space is divided between the rows also favors the Ford Explorer. In both the first and second rows, the Explorer has more headroom, legroom, hip room, and shoulder room than the Grand Cherokee. So, no matter where you’re seated, you’ll be more comfortable in the Explorer.
With people comes stuff, so you’ll need enough room to stow and transport it all. Once again, the Ford Explorer comes out on top.
Behind the second row of the Explorer, you’ll have 47.9 cubic feet to pack all your essentials. Helping a friend move or want to transport home your latest flea market find? With the second- and third-row seats folded down, you’ll have a maximum of 87.8 cubic feet of cargo room! No bag or buddy will ever be left behind.
The Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, is smaller. Cargo volume starts at 37.7 cubic feet with a maximum of just 70.8 cubic feet. During those long trips with big groups and extra luggage, it will be a bit cramped in the Jeep.
Now that you know a bit more about the 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it’s time to test drive your favorite. With its well-balanced performance, fuel efficiency, and spacious cabin, we think the Ford Explorer is a great choice!
Drivers in Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, and Santa Monica, CA, can stop by our dealership to test drive an Explorer. Contact our team at Airport Marina Ford today to schedule your test drive!
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new 2023 Explorer for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
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