2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
When it comes to SUVs, Ford continues to be one of the standout manufacturers in this competitive market. Our customers seem to agree as they’re always eager to check out new models each year, deciding which trim works best for their driving lifestyle. We’ve noticed many drivers, especially families, fall in love with the Ford Explorer, specifically, because it is a classy and stylish ride that offers great seating and ample cargo space.
The Explorer drives well in all conditions, and this SUV has plenty of storage room so everyone can load in their suitcases. The Explorer has been impressing for a long time, too, as its first model year was 1991, meaning it’s over thirty years old. The only way it has been able to last so long is by outdoing its competition year after year. You don’t need to just take our word for it, either. We’re confident that the features and performance numbers of the Explorer can do all the talking. Today, to prove just that, we’ll take a look at this SUV and put it head-to-head with another rival: the 2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.
We would never argue the Grand Cherokee L doesn’t have its strong points; it certainly does. There’s a reason Jeep has such loyal fans, of course. But when you look at these two SUVs side by side, a story starts to emerge, and that’s a story of the 2025 Ford Explorer’s dominance. Whether it’s fuel efficiency, technology, or engine power, the Explorer manages to outdo its competitors. We will take a more detailed look at how it does that in separate categories. We know you’ll end up realizing that the Ford Explorer is the right option for you. Then, you’ll want to visit us here at DePaula Ford, where we have a vast selection of this quality SUV waiting for you to take a test drive.
| 2025 Ford Explorer | VS | 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| $39,785 [a] | MSRP | $39,035 |
| 400 | Horsepower | 293 |
| 415 lb-ft. | Torque | 257 lb-ft. |
| 20/29 | MPG city/hwy | 19/26 |
Performance
When you have an SUV large enough for three rows of seating, you don’t want one that’ll end up lagging due to size. That means you want one with an engine that can crank out solid horsepower and torque. When these performance numbers are high, you’ll know you can accelerate well and have a steady and smooth ride at high speeds. You don’t want to end up stuck on an entrance ramp onto the highway due to low acceleration, and you don’t want to feel like your SUV is coughing as you try to go faster down the freeway.
The Explorer’s Superior Engine Options
The 2025 Ford Explorer will make sure you blast off and cruise smoothly. You’ll glide right onto the highway, and you won’t feel drag at high speeds. Why? Because this SUV arrives with not one but two stellar engine options. First is the 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder option that produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The second option is the 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine, which produces 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. Neither engine will let you down, thanks to those high stats. For instance, the 2.3L engine will have you going from zero to sixty in six seconds, and the V6 improves on that further, getting it down to 5.1 seconds. You’ll have smooth journeys and a nice sense of power.
The Grand Cherokee L’s Only Engine Is Underwhelming
The 2025 Grand Cherokee L comes with a potent but not quite as powerful V6 engine that produces 293 hp and 257 torque. These numbers are by no means bad, but you won’t have the same level of verve the Explorer will give you. Similarly, acceleration is not quite as quick as the Grand Cherokee L goes from zero to sixty in about eight seconds. There’s no additional engine choice, either, so you’re stuck with just the one option. Clearly, the Explorer comes out ahead in this department.
Efficiency and Cost
With a larger SUV, you want to know that you’re still able to get some fuel efficiency, so you don’t become too familiar with the local gas station attendant or sweat too much when gas prices suddenly start to fluctuate. We also know that family drivers have lots of expenses and don’t want to break the bank when they decide to buy. Even a higher trim shouldn’t be out of the question when it comes to affordability. The Ford Explorer excels in both areas, easily besting the Grand Cherokee L.
Fuel Efficiency
With rear-wheel drive, the 2025 Explorer earns a fuel efficiency rating of 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The latter is higher as highway driving tends to involve fewer stop-and-go situations. For families that travel a lot, that highway rating is very important because most of their trips will require time on such roads; if that sounds like what you do, then you’ll be happy to know you’re getting great efficiency.
This is in contrast to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, which does not come with competitive numbers. This Jeep SUV only earns 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. In other words, if you’re planning a trip of decent length, you’ll be paying more for gas if you’re taking your journey in the Grand Cherokee L than if you’re trekking in the Ford Explorer. That’s why the latter wins in terms of fuel efficiency.
The Explorer Offers the More Affordable Lineup
Another cost-effective measure of the Ford Explorer is that its top trim costs about $10,000 less than the top trim of the Jeep, with the Grand Cherokee L’s Summit Reserve trim coming in at $65,040, while the Explorer’s top-level ST trim comes in at a reasonable $54,240.[a] While both vehicles start around the same amount, the higher trims become far more expensive with the Jeep. A price difference like that can be the difference between having a couple extra vacations in a year or just staying at home. Mark this down as another reason families prefer the Explorer.
Interior and Technology
Both the Ford Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L have three rows of seating, and both SUVs are available with luxury features, such as panoramic roofs and heated and ventilated seats. However, you will have to pay more for the Jeep trims that contain such luxury touches than you would for the Explorer, despite the fact that you’re getting essentially the same features. In this way, the Explorer once more bests the Grand Cherokee L on interior design since you’re able to get it with better bang for your buck.
The Explorer Comes Packed With Modern Tech
When it comes to interior technology, the Ford Explorer leaps even further ahead. For one, other than on the base trim, a B&O sound system is standard on all trims. You’ll also be able to connect your music or podcast to the sound system via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Operating your apps will be a breeze, too, thanks to the crystal clear and easy-to-use 13.2-inch touchscreen that comes standard on all trims; even those who are not too tech savvy end up finding it simple to handle.
The Explorer also arrives standard with the Ford Digital Experience, which makes accessing various apps, from navigation to entertainment, as easy as possible. You can even use it to stream videos while parked (great for kids and any easily bored adults) and to play online and offline games. The Explorer truly jumps ahead of competitors not just by what it offers but by how much of its tech comes standard right out of the gate.
Getting Great Tech in the Grand Cherokee L Will Cost You
The Grand Cherokee L comes standard with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, which can be upgraded to a 10.1-inch screen. Both are considerably smaller than what is available in the Ford Explorer. The Jeep comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, too, but if you want to get yourself the Grand Cherokee L’s top sound system, you’ll have to climb up a few more trims than you do in the Explorer. The Grand Cherokee L does toss in SiriusXM Radio and ample USB ports for charging. Still, though, it cannot compare to what you get in the Ford Explorer.
Visit Us Today to Check Out the 2025 Ford Explorer
As part of the DePaula Auto Group, DePaula Ford has access to more automotive knowledge than you can imagine: that’s why we are your best bet when you are ready to purchase the 2025 Ford Explorer. Our customer sales reps know all the stats and have mastered all the technology features of this SUV. Our sales folks will be able to show you how to get the most out of your new vehicle so you leave ready to take to the roads with total confidence. If you’re unsure of what you need, our sales team will also be able to guide you to the trim of the Explorer that works best for what you are setting out to accomplish.
We have a great selection of Ford Explorers, so we’re confident you’ll be able to quickly find the one that’s ideal for you. Our resources go beyond just that, however. You’ll find a great finance center here; our finance team will assist you in acquiring an auto loan with interest rates that work for your current economic circumstances. We are also happy to value a trade-in, and you’ll find the cash will help cover your down payment. Then, our service center can ensure your Explorer runs as great as ever, provided you stop by for regular maintenance. Inspections and repairs will add years to your Explorer’s lifespan. We cannot wait to meet you and welcome you to the DePaula family. We treat our customers like royalty, and the customer reviews back it up. Stop by today and have your family traveling in style with the 2025 Ford Explorer.
