2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2020 Ford Explorer

Giddings drivers searching for a strong and safe SUV for their adventures know to turn to the new Jeep lineup. At the height of capacity and power is the full-size 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which finds a useful sparring partner in the 2020 Ford Explorer. Both offer plenty of interior space and technology-laden cabins to upgrade any road trip or commute around Smithville, but ultimately the new Grand Cherokee makes more of an impression. With an upscale interior and rugged specs, the Grand Cherokee surges ahead. Compare the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer with Oviedo Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT to see which one truly outperforms the competition.

Off-Roading: Explorer or Grand Cherokee

A marked difference in the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer is the off-roading capacity. For some Weimer drivers, this might not seem like a necessary distinction, but the incredible technology and performance systems that provide a Grand Cherokee its superior off-roading toolkit extends far beyond the trail:

• Hill Descent Control ™
• 180-degree camera with split-view and washer
• AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control ™
• LED Headlamps with Auto High Beams

While the Ford Explorer off-road package is capable on its own terms, it simply doesn’t compare to the legendary Jeep 4×4 technology that keeps your family safe on any terrain, whether purposeful or haphazard. The Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™ on the Jeep Grand Cherokee has no rival.

Explorer or Grand Cherokee: Performance Overview

To understand whether the Explorer or Grand Cherokee is the right vehicle for your next upgrade, consider that the most notable divide comes from the vast performance differential between these two. While the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers four efficient and powerful engine options, the 2020 Ford Explorer only offers 3.

Though the Ford Explorer offers slightly more horsepower in its base engine, the Jeep Grand Cherokee almost doubles the maximum output available from the Ford Explorer. We take a closer look at the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer performance comparison below:

2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Engine Selection

3.6L V6 Engine (Base Trim):

• 293 hp
• 269 lb-ft of torque
• 19 mpg city/ 26 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 3,500-pound towing capacity

5.7L V8 Engine: 

• 360 hp
• 390 lb-ft of torque
• 17 mpg city/ 23 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 7,200-pound towing capacity

6.4L HEMI SRT V8 engine:

• 475 hp
• 470 lb-ft of torque
• 13 mpg city/ 19 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 7,200-pound towing capacity

6.2L HEMI V8 engine:

• 707 hp
• 645 lb-ft
• 11 mpg city/ 17 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 7,200-pound towing capacity

2020 Ford Explorer: Engine Selection

2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (Base Trim):

• 300 hp
• 310 lb-ft of torque
• 21 mpg city/ 28 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 5,300-pound towing capacity

3.0L EcoBoost V6:

• 400 hp
• 415 lb-ft of torque
• 18 mpg city/ 24 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 5,600-pound towing capacity

3.3L Hybrid:

• 318 hp
• 322 lb-ft of torque
• 23 mpg city/ 26 mpg highway EPA-estimated fuel economy
• 5,000-pound towing capacity

Discover the Jeep Grand Cherokee with Oviedo Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT

Ultimately, whether the Ford Explorer or Grand Cherokee feels right is up to your driving style and needs. Of course, the lower starting MSRP of the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee means it’s easier to customize for whatever purpose you plan on. Contact us at Oviedo Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT to make your next move into the wild, or explore more of our model comparisons for the finer points of our vast inventory in La Grange. To explore more of our Jeep models, take a look inside the Jeep Renegade interior to see if it fits your off-road lifestyle.