Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs Ford Explorer

2025 Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$41,535MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$41,535MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

1991-Present

Years produced

2021-Present

MSRP

$40,050

MSRP

$41,535

Listings

9846

Listings

9621

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Comfortable

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • No hybrid or plug-in hybrid option

  • No off-road trim level

  • Cramped third-row

Pros

  • Great handling

  • Great ride quality

  • Premium interior materials

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

  • Irritating transmission

Reviews Summary

Thanks to numerous changes for 2025, the Ford Explorer is a more appealing alternative to the seemingly countless choices in the midsize three-row SUV segment. Highlights include sophisticated new infotainment and safety technologies, improved interior quality, bolder styling, and a simplified lineup offering Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trim levels. Also, as the prices of rivals have risen, the 2025 Ford Explorer seems properly priced in comparison.

Verdict: Ford’s updates to the Explorer for the 2025 model year have a positive effect on the SUV’s desirability. It looks tougher, it feels nicer inside, and the family-friendly SUV leaps forward technologically. Turbocharged power and a rear-drive platform add driving enjoyment. All that’s missing is a more comfortable third-row seat, an electrified powertrain option, and an off-road trim level.

Reviews Summary

The Grand Cherokee L is the three-row version of Jeep's popular midsize SUV. It continues into 2023 with higher prices and new competitors, namely the Land Rover Defender 130 and Toyota Grand Highlander. The style and 4x4 hardware are classic Jeep, but the Grand Cherokee L is built for comfort over raw capability. We tested the top trim, a Summit Reserve, that was priced over $75,000 and worth it—most of the time.
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Engine

3.6L 293 hp V6

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

293 hp @ 6400 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

29

MPG Highway

26
2025 Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$41,535MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$41,535MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
1991-Present
2021-Present
MSRP
$40,050
$41,535
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.2

4.6

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

8.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Comfortable

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • No hybrid or plug-in hybrid option

  • No off-road trim level

  • Cramped third-row

Pros

  • Great handling

  • Great ride quality

  • Premium interior materials

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

  • Irritating transmission

Summary

Thanks to numerous changes for 2025, the Ford Explorer is a more appealing alternative to the seemingly countless choices in the midsize three-row SUV segment. Highlights include sophisticated new infotainment and safety technologies, improved interior quality, bolder styling, and a simplified lineup offering Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trim levels. Also, as the prices of rivals have risen, the 2025 Ford Explorer seems properly priced in comparison.

Verdict: Ford’s updates to the Explorer for the 2025 model year have a positive effect on the SUV’s desirability. It looks tougher, it feels nicer inside, and the family-friendly SUV leaps forward technologically. Turbocharged power and a rear-drive platform add driving enjoyment. All that’s missing is a more comfortable third-row seat, an electrified powertrain option, and an off-road trim level.

The Grand Cherokee L is the three-row version of Jeep's popular midsize SUV. It continues into 2023 with higher prices and new competitors, namely the Land Rover Defender 130 and Toyota Grand Highlander. The style and 4x4 hardware are classic Jeep, but the Grand Cherokee L is built for comfort over raw capability. We tested the top trim, a Summit Reserve, that was priced over $75,000 and worth it—most of the time.
Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.3L 300 hp I4
3.6L 293 hp V6
Drive Train
RWD
4X2
Seating Capacity
7
7
Horsepower
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
293 hp @ 6400 rpm
MPG City
20
19
MPG Highway
29
26
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