2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Ford Explorer

Posted on November 5, 2021

Midsize SUVs seem to be a car segment that never goes out of style. One of the most popular categories with shoppers, midsize SUVs offer a combination of interior room, versatility, towing capability, and extra seating that cannot be beat by other types of vehicles.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer are two of the best-known and longest-running nameplates in the midsize SUV category. While they offer similar size, specifications, and price, there are some significant differences that highlight the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's capability over the Explorer.

With the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, drivers get an upscale interior, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and a choice of powertrains to offer the capability that they need. And with an all-new platform (and a three-row version) coming out for 2022, Jeep's combination of off-road capability and on-road excellence is hard to beat.

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Ford Explorer - Models and Pricing

Starting at $44,479, Jeep offers the 2021 Grand Cherokee in 11 different model configurations to meet the needs of every buyer. The base model Laredo comes standard with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, and remote start, as well as Jeep's 3.6-litre Pentastar VVT V6 engine with Stop/Start technology.

Starting at $44,669, Ford offers the 2021 Explorer in five model versions across Canada. The entry-level XLT includes unique cloth seating surfaces, terrain management system with intelligent 4WD, and a reverse sensing system.

With its plethora of trim levels, better standard features, and slightly lower base price, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee beats out Ford in terms of models and pricing.

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Ford Explorer - Interior

While front row passengers in the Ford Explorer get spacious and comfortable seats, the remaining passengers are left without room and support. The same is not true in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, where there is plenty of support, cushion, and room for all passengers. The Explorer might have the three-row advantage, but it loses that in 2022.

Jeep also handily wins the battle of interior quality, which features a modern and upscale design with high-quality materials present throughout even the base trim. While the Explorer was redesigned in 2020, there are still too many hard plastics and lower quality materials used throughout the cabin--a real letdown for the price.

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Ford Explorer - Performance

There is no world in which the 2021 Ford Explorer can keep up with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee on or off road. In terms of towing, the Grand Cherokee can top up to 2,812kg with the V6 engine and 3,265kg with the V8 engine. The Grand Cherokee also throws in that whole "off-road performance leader" as well. Whether drivers are on the road, off on trails, or heading to the campground or lake with their camper and boat, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee can handle it.

Finding the Right 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee in Waterloo, ON

The Bustard Chrysler dealership in Waterloo, ON, is the perfect place for drivers to learn more about and test drive the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. With so many models to choose from and so many hidden details, Bustard Chrysler is ready and willing to help potential buyers navigate the vehicle and the buying process.